Hal Major © 2009
BobVila.com
Drywall is a composite product consisting of a core made from gypsum and exterior covers of different materials. Standard drywall has a paper covering. Special use drywall products have different core materials and coverings depending on the application and location in the building.
Prior to 1955 walls were covered with lath and plaster. The process of fastening the lath to the wall studs and then covering the lath with layers of plaster would take weeks to complete. Simply waiting for the plaster to dry sufficiently so it could be painted might take days. An experienced drywall contractor can finish the average new home of 2200 square feet in a week or less using drywall.
Is there a difference between sheetrock and drywall?
The short answer is no. Sheetrock is the brand name of U.S. Gypsum Products drywall. USG was one of the first companies to make drywall. Their product trade name "Sheetrock" became a generic name for drywall much the same as Kleenex has for facial tissues.
Standard Drywall
Standard drywall is just what the name implies. It has a gypsum rock core and a paper cover on both sides. Its primary use is for those areas in your home that do not have a special environment or hazardous exposure. Bedrooms, dining rooms, living and family rooms are good examples where standard drywall is commonly used.
Moisture/Mold Resistant Drywall
The moisture and mold resistant drywall is used in the rooms and environments that have an above normal exposure to humidity and dampness. This class of drywall is sometimes referred to as "green board" because the paper covering is green. The only difference between moisture/mold resistant drywall and standard drywall is the covering. The gypsum core is the same in both types.
Contrary to popular belief, green board is not made for nor should it be used for showers or around bathtubs. Green board is water/moisture resistant not waterproof. Cement board is the correct product for shower and bathtub surrounds.
Fire Resistant (type X) Drywall
Fire resistant drywall contains a different core material and covering than either the standard or the moisture resistant products. The basic core is still gypsum however; it is reinforced with glass strands to increase strength. The increased strength keeps the board from buckling from the heat and therefore retards the fire from quickly spreading. The covering is also a fire resistant or fireproof material.
Drywall is a wonder product. It provides a smooth surface that looks great when properly finished. It adds strength and stability to the wall and can provide resistance to fire and water damage. If your home remodeling project includes adding or replacing drywall, we recommend choosing an experienced and reputable contractor to ensure high quality work and the highest return on investment for your remodeling project.
