People use the terms “sheetrock” and “drywall” interchangeably, but there is a subtle distinction between the two. This article reviews the differences between Sheetrock and drywall, discusses their various types, and provides insights into installation and costs. Whether planning a home renovation or simply curious about the materials that make up your walls, this guide will help you navigate the world of interior wall construction.
What Is Drywall?
Drywall is a construction material that creates interior walls and ceilings in homes and buildings. It consists of a layer of gypsum plaster between two thick sheets of paper.
The evolution of drywall began with a product called Sacketboard, which was the first to combine plaster and paper panels to form sheets. The design of Sacketboard initially replaced the time-consuming process of installing wooden lath strips for plastering. While it sped up construction, it still required a skim coat of plaster before painting. Over time, manufacturers improved the material. You can now paint it directly without needing an additional plaster layer.
In modern construction, drywall has become the standard for interior walls due to its ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. Today, you only need to cover the joints between panels and fastener points with drywall compound.
What Is Sheetrock?
Sheetrock is a brand name for drywall panels manufactured by the United States Gypsum Company (USG). Much like how people refer to all tissues as “Kleenex,” the term “Sheetrock” has become synonymous with drywall in many regions.
It’s paramount to note that while all Sheetrock is drywall, not all drywall is Sheetrock. Several companies produce drywall panels, each with brand names and specific features. Sheetrock is simply one of the most well-known brands on the market.
Key Differences Between Sheetrock and Drywall
The main difference between Sheetrock and drywall lies in branding rather than composition or function:
- Brand vs. generic: Sheetrock is a specific brand of drywall, while drywall is the general term for the product.
- Manufacturing: USG produces only Sheetrock, while various manufacturers make drywall.
- Quality control: As a brand-name product, Sheetrock may have more consistent quality control standards than generic drywall.
There is typically no significant difference between Sheetrock and other high-quality drywall products in performance and installation.
Types of Drywall
Drywall comes in various types, each designed for specific applications and environments.
Standard Drywall
Standard drywall is the most common type used in residential construction. It’s typically white or light gray and available in various thicknesses, with ½-inch being the most popular for walls. Experts use ½-inch no-sag panels or ⅝-inch standard panels for ceilings to prevent sagging between joists.
Water-Resistant Drywall
Typically green in color, water-resistant drywall is for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens. Note that while it resists moisture, it’s not completely waterproof. The gypsum core still absorbs water, but the paper facing repels moisture.
Mold-Resistant Drywall
Mold-resistant drywall contains additives like sodium pyrithione to prevent mold growth. It’s available in various colors, including green, yellow, purple, or blue. Manufacturers treat the facing paper with mold-inhibiting chemicals, making it ideal for damp or humid environments.
Fire-Retardant Drywall
Fire-retardant drywall slows the spread of fire, providing occupants with more time to escape in an emergency. Building codes require this type of drywall in specific areas, such as garage ceilings when there’s a living space above. Fire-retardant drywall typically has a one-hour fire rating compared to the 30-minute rating of standard drywall.
Soundproof Drywall
Soundproof drywall is installed as a system, using multiple layers with air gaps between them to reduce sound transmission. These systems may include rubber bushings and sound-deadening caulk to minimize vibrations and noise transfer.
Lightweight Drywall
Lightweight drywall panels are easier to handle and install, particularly for ceiling applications. They offer the same performance as standard drywall but weigh a few pounds less per panel, making installation less strenuous for workers.
Paperless Drywall
A relatively new innovation, paperless drywall replaces traditional paper facing with a thin layer of fiberglass. This type of drywall offers enhanced water and mold resistance without the risk of paper deterioration. It’s becoming increasingly popular in high-moisture areas and as a replacement for cement backer boards in custom shower installations.
Drywall Sizes and Thicknesses
Drywall panels come in various sizes and thicknesses to suit different applications:
- Standard sizes: The most common sizes are 4′ x 8′, 4′ x 12′, and 4′ x 16′ (special order). This range provides flexibility depending on the scale and needs of the project.
- Thickness options: Thickness also matters, with options such as ¼”, ⅜ “, ½”, and ⅝”. Each thickness serves different purposes, from ceiling panels to walls requiring added fire resistance.
The choice of size and thickness depends on the specific requirements of the project, building codes, and the installer’s preferences.
DIY Drywall Installation: Is It Possible?
If you’re handy, installing drywall as a DIY project is possible. However, consider the challenges involved before committing to this project.
Weight
Drywall panels are heavy, especially the larger sizes. Many DIYers prefer to rent or purchase a drywall lift, making ceiling installation manageable without excessive physical strain.
Tools
Precision is key in drywall installation, and while a cordless drill works, we highly recommend a dedicated screw gun. This tool makes the job considerably easier and faster, attaching the panels securely.
Fasteners
Drywall screws are preferable to nails, as they are less likely to pop out over time. You can also tighten them if needed, providing extra assurance of a stable installation.
Finishing
Achieving a smooth, seamless surface is the most challenging part of any drywall project. It requires finesse and skill in applying drywall compound effectively over the joints and screw heads to create a flawless appearance.
If you’re installing drywall yourself, research proper techniques, gather the right tools, and prepare for a time-consuming process. Diligence and attention to detail will pay off in a professional-looking finish that enhances any room.
Choosing the Right Drywall for Your Project
Selecting the appropriate type of drywall depends on the specific requirements of each area in your home. Here are some general guidelines.
Living Areas
Standard ½” drywall is enough. It provides enough strength and support for most living spaces where moisture is not a problem.
Bathrooms and Kitchens
Areas with higher humidity benefit from water-resistant or mold-resistant ½” drywall. This choice helps prevent damage and maintains air quality by reducing mold growth.
Garage Ceilings (With Living Space Above)
Building codes usually required fire-rated drywall, typically ⅝” thick, in these areas. This provides extra safety by delaying fire spread in a garage fire.
Home Theaters
Use two layers of ½” soundproof drywall to minimize noise transfer. This setup creates an immersive audio experience while containing sound within the space.
Ceilings
The choice between ½” no-sag panels or ⅝” standard panels depends on how you want the ceiling to look and your structural preferences. These options prevent the ceiling from sagging over time, particularly in larger rooms.
Check local building codes and talk to experts if you’re unsure what’s best for your situation. The materials you choose need to match the rules and your personal preferences.
Drywall Vs. Sheetrock Installation Costs
The cost of installing drywall varies greatly, depending on the project size, the type of drywall used, and whether it’s a DIY or professional job. Here’s a general overview.
Materials
According to Angi, the average cost to install drywall, including labor and materials, is between $1.50–$3 per square foot. Specialized types, such as mold or fire-resistant drywall, are more expensive due to their specific features and benefits.
Professional Installation
When hiring professionals, expect to pay between $60–$90 per drywall panel. This cost includes materials and labor.
DIY Installation
DIYers should factor in the cost of tools. DIY installation costs range from $100–$500, according to Angi. Having the right equipment is necessary for achieving a professional-looking finish.
Finishing Costs
Consideration for finishing is key, as this step involves smoothing all surfaces with drywall compound. According to HomeGuide, professional finishing typically adds $1.50–$3.50 per square foot to the total cost but guarantees the highest quality result.
Note that Sheetrock, a brand name, may be slightly more expensive than generic drywall. The difference in cost is minimal, and many professionals prefer the consistency of brand-name products. This consistent quality control leads to fewer issues post-installation.
