Drywall Buying Guide: Everything You Need To Know

When you’re shopping around for drywall, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. From understanding the different types of drywall available on the market to deciding which thickness and size is right for your project, this guide provides all the information you need to make an informed decision when selecting and buying drywall. In this article, we will discuss everything from figuring out how much drywall you need, exploring the different types of drywall available and learning about installation tools – so that you can find the perfect fit for your next wall building or renovation job!

What is Drywall?

Drywall (also known as sheetrock, wallboard, gypsum board, or plasterboard) is an interior building material consisting of a paper-covered gypsum core and is used for wall construction. It’s most commonly used in residential and commercial buildings to form walls and ceilings, but can also be applied as a surface covering to existing walls.

What are the Different Types of Drywall?

There are several types of drywall available on the market today: standard drywall, type X drywall, green board (or moisture resistant drywall), fire-resistant drywall, soundproofing drywall and impact resistant drywall. Standard drywall is the most common type found in residential applications; it offers good strength and durability, but is not moisture or fire resistant. Type X drywall offers improved strength and fire resistance; it’s commonly used in commercial applications, where walls are exposed to higher temperatures. Green board (or moisture-resistant drywall) is composed of specially treated paper that resists mold and mildew, making it ideal for areas prone to high humidity levels. Fire-resistant drywall offers increased protection against fire and heat; it’s often used in garages, laundry rooms and other areas exposed to sources of heat. Soundproofing drywall offers improved soundproofing characteristics when compared with standard drywall; it’s commonly found in home theaters, music studios and other sound sensitive environments. Impact resistant drywall is designed to resist physical damage caused by objects in motion; it’s often used in hallways, stairwells and other areas that may experience frequent impacts.

What are the Most Common Drywall Sizes?

The most common drywall sizes are 4×8 feet and 4×12 feet. These sizes come in different thicknesses, ranging from 1/4 inch (6mm) to 5/8 inch (15.9mm). Thicker drywalls offer more strength and durability, but they’re also heavier and more difficult to install.

How Much Drywall Do I Need?

The amount of drywall you need will depend on the size of your project. To figure out how much drywall you’ll need, measure the surface area of each wall and ceiling. Then, divide this number by 32 (for 4×8 feet sheets) or 48 (for 4×12 feet sheets). This will give you the approximate number of sheets needed for your project.

What Are the Different Types of Drywall Screws?

There are two types of drywall screws – coarse thread and fine thread. Coarse thread screws are more commonly used in residential applications; they offer good strength, but can strip out easily if over-tightened. Fine thread screws have sharper threads that bite into wood easier; they’re usually used in commercial applications, where walls are exposed to higher temperatures.

What Are the Different Types of Drywall Tape?

There are three types of drywall tape available – paper tape, fiberglass mesh tape and self-adhesive mesh tape. Paper tape is the most common type and is used for both interior and exterior applications; it offers good strength and is easy to apply. Fiberglass mesh tape provides superior adhesion, but can be difficult to work with; it’s best suited for areas that may experience frequent impacts or vibrations. Self-adhesive mesh tape offers exceptional adhesion and is less prone to cracking; it’s often used in areas exposed to high humidity levels.

How Do I Install Drywall?

Installing drywall can be a challenging task, so it’s important to take the time to plan out your project carefully. Start by measuring the walls and ceilings of the room you’re working in; then, purchase enough drywall sheets to cover the area. Once you have the materials, mark out where each sheet will go and cut them down to size using a utility knife or circular saw. Finally, attach the sheets to the wall with screws and tape off any seams with paper or mesh tape. Be sure to use appropriate safety gear while installing drywall (gloves, goggles, dust mask etc.) as it can create hazardous dust.

How Do I Repair Drywall?

To repair drywall, start by cutting out the damaged area using a utility knife or circular saw. Once you’ve removed the damaged section, use a piece of scrap wood to create a template for the replacement panel. Trace around this template onto a new sheet of drywall, then cut it out and attach it to the wall with screws. Finally, mud and tape the seams as necessary and sand it down until it’s smooth. Be sure to wear appropriate safety gear while repairing drywall (gloves, goggles, dust mask etc.) as it can create hazardous dust.

How Do I Finish Drywall?

To finish drywall, you’ll need to apply joint compound and tape the seams. Start by taping any inside corners with paper or mesh tape; then, spread a thin layer of joint compound over the entire surface using a 6-inch knife or trowel. Allow this coat to dry, then sand it down until it’s smooth. Finally, apply two more coats of joint compound in order to create an even finish. Be sure to wear appropriate safety gear while working on drywall (gloves, goggles, dust mask etc.) as it can create hazardous dust.

Drywall is an essential material for building walls and ceilings in homes and businesses. It comes in various sizes and thicknesses, and is relatively easy to install. However, it’s important to carefully measure the area you’re working in and purchase enough drywall sheets accordingly; otherwise, you may end up with too much or too little material. Additionally, be sure to wear appropriate safety gear while installing or repairing drywall as it can create hazardous dust.