Drywall Basics: Measuring, Prep and the Different Types (page 3 of 3)

Learn about they different types of drywall, how to determine how much you'll need and the best ways to prepare for the job.

Excerpted from Do It Yourself Home Improvement

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Types of Drywall

There are many types of drywall available at your local home center. From thicknesses that range from 1/4" to 5/8" to wall sizes that start at 4' x 8', there is a drywall product that is designed to suit your interior wall needs. If you are finishing a garage or another area where a fire rating is required, look for fire-resistant drywall. If you need to finish a wet wall, make sure you use a product that is able to handle more than average moisture content.

Regular
The most typical drywall used in standard interior applications is 1/2" drywall in 4' x 8' panels. It is also available in 1/4", 3/8", and 5/8" thicknesses (Image 1).

Moisture-resistant
Sometimes called greenboard, due to its color, this has the same gypsum core as drywall, but with a water-resistant facing. It is typically used in wet areas such as around a bathtub. Not waterproof (Image 2).

Fire-resistant
This type of drywall has a core with additives that contain fires well. Fire rating for panels is measured in time. Due to its tougher core, it can be more difficult to cut (Image 3).

Flexible
When you have an arch or a curved wall, 1/4" flexible drywall is the best type to choose. It has a stronger paper face than regular 1/4" drywall and is more resistant to cracking (Image 4).

Cement board
Sometimes called concrete backerboard or the brand names of Durock and Wonder Board, it is used as a surface for ceramic tiles. It is not a gypsum-based product, as it has a solid concrete core (Image 5).

Gp's Denshield
This is a mold-resistant board used for tiling. It has a glass face and an acrylic coating that prevents moisture from entering the wall cavity (Image 6).