Drywall, also called gypsum board, sheetrock, or wallboard, is a popular building material. People use it to build walls and ceilings. It comes in different varieties, each serving a unique purpose, from fire resistance to soundproofing and moisture control. Let’s explore the different types of drywall and how builders use them in both residential and commercial spaces.
What is Drywall?
Manufacturers make drywall primarily from gypsum, a mineral found abundantly in nature. The manufacturer sandwiches the core of gypsum between two sheets of paper, which gives it strength and structure.
Drywall became a popular choice for covering walls after World War I. Installing it was easy and affordable. As construction boomed, the need for faster and more efficient building materials increased.
Common Drywall Thicknesses
Drywall is available in various thicknesses, each suited to different purposes. In some cases, builders apply multiple layers of drywall to enhance fire resistance or improve soundproofing.
The thinnest option is ¼ inch drywall, commonly used for curved walls because of its flexibility, especially when dampened. Once dried, you finish it just like standard drywall.
Most residential and commercial walls use ½ inch drywall thickness most frequently. This thickness provides 30 minutes of fire protection and often layers in areas that require extra safeguarding.
For even greater fire resistance or soundproofing, builders prefer ⅝ inch drywall. It offers up to 60 minutes of fire protection and people typically install it in layers for enhanced safety.
6 Common Types of Drywall
Each type of drywall offers specific advantages, making it ideal for certain areas of the home or commercial building. Here are the six most common types of drywall:
1. Regular Drywall (White Board)
White board drywall typically has one white side and one brown side. It comes in various thicknesses ranging from 3/8 inch to 1 inch, often in the standard drywall size of 4 feet by 8 feet boards. Regular drywall, or whiteboard, is the standard option used in most homes and commercial projects. Easy to install and affordable, this option serves as the go-to choice for interior walls and ceilings.
2. Mold-Resistant Drywall (Green Board)
Moisture-resistant drywall is another name for green board drywall. It has a green covering that helps it resist moisture better than regular drywall. Green boards offer better protection from humidity and splashes, but they are not waterproof. So, don’t use it in wet areas like showers or around tubs.
Contractors commonly use this drywall as a backing for tiles in areas with moderate humidity levels. These areas include basements, kitchens, laundry rooms, and utility rooms. It helps stop mold and mildew in damp areas. When installing green board drywall, ensure proper ventilation and moisture management to maintain its effectiveness over time.
3. Blue Board Drywall
Plasterboard, often referred to as blue board, is used as a base for plaster applications. It provides a classic finish similar to traditional lath and plaster walls, often seen in older homes.
The blue board’s surface absorbs well. This helps the plaster stick firmly. As a result, the walls have a stronger and smoother finish.
4. Soundproof Drywall
Soundproof drywall incorporates additional materials such as wood fibers, polymers, and dense gypsum to reduce noise transmission. It has a higher Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating, which measures the amount of sound that can pass through the material. Contractors often use this type of drywall between shared walls in homes or buildings. It helps reduce noise, making it ideal for offices and bedrooms.
5. Fire-Resistant Drywall
Fire-resistant drywall is often used in basements, garages, and near heat-producing appliances. It has fiberglass that helps slow the spread of flames.
Two main categories of fire-resistant drywall exist: Type X and Type C. Type X drywall provides fire protection for up to an hour and usually has a thickness of 5/8 inch. Type C provides similar protection but is designed to resist shrinking in high heat. This makes it a great choice for ceilings.
6. VOC-Absorbing Drywall
VOC-absorbing drywall is a new product. It captures and neutralizes volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from paints, cleaners, and other building materials.
This type of drywall helps improve indoor air quality. It traps harmful chemicals, making it a great choice for homes and buildings concerned about air quality. It remains effective for up to 75 years, even after people paint or cover it.
Contact ROA Drywall For Drywall Installation Services in Austin
If you need drywall installed in Austin, contact ROA Drywall, a trustworthy contractor with experienced professionals who can help you choose the right materials and get the job done right.
Final Thoughts
From standard whiteboard to moisture-resistant, fire-resistant, and soundproof options, each type of drywall has unique benefits. These benefits can improve the functionality and safety of a building. Knowing the differences between these types will help make sure your next construction or renovation project lasts.
Choosing the right drywall for your project can help improve indoor air quality. It can also protect against fire and moisture. Additionally, it reduces noise transmission. This choice creates a more comfortable living or working space.