Difference Between Drywall and Sheetrock
Drywall, also known as plasterboard, gypsum board, and wallboard, is a construction material used to cover interior ceilings and walls.
Homeowners looking to improve the look of their walls and ceilings may have come across the terms "drywall" and "Sheetrock." Drywall and Sheetrock are usually used interchangeably, but these construction materials differ in many ways. Namely, Sheetrock is a brand of drywall that is so popular that people often think it's a different material.
This article will explain drywall and Sheetrock more precisely to dispel homeowners' confusion regarding these terms.
How drywall works
Drywall, also known as plasterboard, gypsum board, and wallboard, is a construction material used to cover interior ceilings and walls. Before drywall, installers used plaster layered between thick pieces of wool felt paper. In the mid-1920s, it was primarily replaced by drywall, which developed between 1910 and 1930.
Drywall is made from calcium sulfate dihydrate, i.e., gypsum, and can contain various additives that enhance its properties. Gypsum is then pressed between sheets of thick paper, creating a compact board. Drywall is used for residential and commercial buildings and represents one of the most popular construction materials today, primarily due to its affordability, ease of use, and availability.
How Sheetrock came to be
As mentioned, Sheetrock is a drywall brand trusted by many construction companies. Sheetrock was first made in 1917 and included changes from the original gypsum board formula, allowing it to create its brand.
Similarly to other types of drywall, Sheetrock is low-cost, easy to install, and available nationwide. Some Sheetrock panels have mold resistance, moisture resistance, and noise reduction, but all drywall panels are fire-resistant.
A difference between Sheetrock and other types of drywall worth mentioning is the odor. Unlike other drywall types, Sheetrock doesn't emit the smell of sulfur. This odor isn't only unpleasant, but it can also be a health risk and cause damage to the house.
Other types of drywall
Aside from Sheetrock, there are also other types of drywall. These primarily differ in thickness, which means you can find drywall that's 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/4 inch in thickness. Other than thickness, one can distinguish drywall types based on other criteria and usage.
Whiteboard: Whiteboard is next to Sheetrock in terms of popularity. Due to its practical size and weight, it's suitable for both walls and ceilings.
Acoustic drywall: Acoustic drywall absorbs sounds and improves acoustics in rooms such as bedrooms, music rooms, etc.
VOC-absorbing drywall: VOC-absorbing drywall captures volatile compounds and ensures indoor air is free of harmful chemicals.
Ceiling drywall: This is specifically made for ceilings and has less weight and density, ensuring easier installation and preventing ceilings from sagging.
Choose the most suitable option
While drywall comes in various types and sizes, Sheetrock boards also feature similar properties. The final choice depends on the home's requirements, so carefully examine the options. However, whichever drywall you choose, ensure you hire a reliable contractor to install it. With proper installation, the qualities of drywall will prove beneficial to a home improvement project.
Mark’s Painting offers residential and commercial painting for Tampa, Hillsborough, and Pinellas County. Exterior painting, including priming, sealing, plaster & drywall service, pressure washing. We paint interiors, including ceilings, walls, trim, baseboard, fireplaces, mantels, paneling, wainscoting, doors, and windows. We offer wallpaper removal, caulking, staining and varnishing, refinishing, texturing, specialty finishes, and more. We are licensed and insured. Call us at (813) 831-5433
