When deciding on the type of drywall to use, it’s essential to consider the available options on the market. Drywall comes in various categories, including Standard, Lightweight, Fire Resistant, Moisture/Mold Resistant, and Abuse Resistant.
Each of these categories can also offer different variations. Here’s a concise overview of each of these categories:
Standard Drywall
The most commonly encountered drywall type is Standard drywall, widely used in residential construction for walls and ceilings that require minimal fire resistance. It comes in thicknesses of a quarter-inch, three-eighths, and half-inch. Standard drywall is the default choice when no specific type is specified, as it is both user-friendly and cost-effective.
Lightweight Drywall
Introduced to the US market in the early 2000s, Lightweight drywall is essentially Standard drywall but made lighter by up to 15%. It was initially available in half-inch thickness and later in other variations, including Fire Rated and Mold Resistant Lightweight Drywall. Choosing Lightweight drywall is often preferable due to its ease of handling.
Fire Resistant Drywall
Fire Resistant Drywall can be divided into three categories based on fire resistance levels: Standard Drywall, Firecode X, and Firecode C. Each category withstands intense fires for varying durations, with Firecode C providing the most extended protection. Local regulations and architectural drawings usually dictate which type to use based on the fire rating requirements.
Moisture/Mold Resistant Drywall
To prevent water damage and mold growth, special panels are designed to address the paper used on drywall panels, which is susceptible to mold. Some Mold Resistant drywall uses paper embedded with an antimicrobial additive, while others feature a fiberglass mat instead of paper, enhancing resistance to mold. Additional finishing work may be necessary for the latter type.
Abuse Resistant Drywall
Abuse Resistant Drywall is engineered to minimize surface and impact damage, categorized into Level 1 to Level 3 based on resistance. Various testing methods determine their performance. Level 3 is suitable for industrial use, while Level 1 or 2 may suffice for residential areas prone to minor damage.
Sound Dampening Drywall
Sound-dampening drywall typically contains a noise-absorbing layer between two gypsum layers. Its effectiveness depends on the overall sound reduction system in place and is complemented by factors such as framing, flooring, HVAC, and plumbing.
Exterior Drywall
Two types of exterior drywall panels exist: exterior sheathing panels and exterior soffit panels. Exterior sheathing panels are distinct from traditional drywall and serve as a base layer for siding. The water-resistant gypsum core and water-repellent paper of exterior soffit panels make them suitable for exterior porch ceilings in dry climates, mainly in the Southwest US.
Conclusion
In most construction scenarios, the choice typically falls between Standard drywall and fire-resistant type X drywall. Other drywall types are used selectively to complement the main choice based on specific requirements.
