Choosing drywall for your home renovation project is a smart move. The material was popularly known as Sheetrock and then plasterboard and gypsum board.
I’m sure you are here with the excitement of upgrading your own space! There are several varieties of wallboard. But to help you out, here’s what you need to know about these different types of drywall:
Regular
This is the most common, known, and economical type of drywall. It is white on one side and brown on the other, made from gypsum sandwiched between two layers of paper. It comes in various sizes, ranging in thickness from 3/8 inches to one inch, and is available in four by eight-foot panels. You can buy it for about $12 per 4-foot by 8-foot sheet depending on where you live.
Green
This water-resistant type of drywall is mold-resistant and intended for use in areas exposed to moisture, such as your bathrooms and kitchens. Green drywall costs about 20% more than regular drywall if your budget allows, you can also use this in the rest of the house. Even though green board drywall is the same thickness as the regular one, it should not be confused with the fire-resistant product. Green drywall should be used in areas where a fire might be expected.
Purple
While most drywall is naturally fire-resistant, the purple type is unique because it has all you need to resist moisture, mold, and dew. Moreover, purple drywall can also stand up to scuffs, scratches, dents, and noise, so it is suitable for high-traffic areas. Purple drywall is 30% more expensive than regular drywall.
Type X
Although all types of drywall are fire-resistant, there is a particular type of drywall with higher fire-resistance ratings than others called Type X. It’s thicker (5/8 inch or 1/2 inch or less). It has glass fibers mixed into the gypsum to increase its resistance to fire. Type X drywall is installed just like regular drywall and is usually required by building codes, so better to ask a local handyman to help you out. This thicker drywall costs about 10% more than regular drywall. But remember, though, It is not fireproof, and most Type X drywall can withstand fire for about an hour.
Sound Dampening
Whether you want to renovate your entertainment room or just want to relax in your own space with lesser noise from outside, a sound dampening drywall is perfect for you. It has the same thickness as regular drywall, but is layered. The layering effect increases the Sound Transmission Class (STC) and lessens noise transmission from one room to another. However, it is significantly more costly than regular drywall, costing about 400% more than standard drywall. It doesn’t require any special tools to install and can be used in any space.
One great thing about drywall is that it is budget-friendly. All you need is paper, gypsum, metal, screws, and some strips of plastic to do a DIY. The majority of modern construction uses this material. Although the concept of drywall can be understood easily, proper installation is crucial to ensure that it will last long and serve its function well. Don’t think twice about calling your local handyman in Corpus Christi to help you out!
