Different Tyes of Drywall

Standard

• A standard gypsum-based drywall is used for common residential applications. Sheets are a standard 8, 10, 12, 14 or 16 feet in length and can be 48 or 56 inches in height. These sheets are commonly found in thicknesses of 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 or 5/8 of an inch. The standard type of drywall is suitable for installation on most wall and ceiling surfaces.

Fire Resistant

• Fire-resistant drywall, also known as type X or type C drywall, is typically used on walls that separate the garage from the living area of the house or on walls between offices and industrial work spaces. When installed properly on both sides of a common wooden wall, type X drywall that is 5/8-inch thick should be able to withstand fire for a period of about one hour.

Moisture Resistant

• Moisture-resistant drywall, which is typically either blue or green in color, is used in applications with increased moisture levels. This includes bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and washrooms. Moisture-resistant drywall offers a limited amount of mold protection as well.

Sound Resistant

• Sound-resistant drywall is used in buildings where noise is a consideration. This includes theaters, arenas, recording studios and some commercial offices. This type of drywall is made up of different polymers, ceramics and gypsum, a combination that provides its sound-resistant qualities. Sound-resistant drywall is about four times more expensive than a standard sheet of drywall, but it can provide sound resistance that is equal to eight layers of standard drywall.

Abuse Resistant

• Abuse-resistant drywall is needed in areas that are prone to frequent or heavy impacts, including factories, garages and commercial buildings. This drywall is typically 5/8-inch thick and features a thicker coating of paper than a standard sheet of drywall.

Foil Backed

• Foil-backed drywall is an alternative solution to controlling moisture in a building or room. It is typically used in concrete buildings such as factories, warehouses and old buildings constructed of concrete.

Cement

• Cement board, also known as rock board, provides greater moisture and mold resistance than green- or blue-coated drywall. It is much heavier than standard drywall and is often used as a base for tile in showers and saunas.

Lead Lined

• Lead-lined drywall is used mainly in the medical field and in rooms that will experience high amounts of radiation. It is unnecessary for use in the common home.