When you’re standing in the building materials aisle, staring at rows of drywall options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What seemed like a straightforward purchase suddenly becomes a maze of technical terms, thickness measurements, and specialized features. The truth is, not all drywall is created equal, and choosing the wrong type can lead to costly mistakes down the road.
This guide breaks down the most common drywall types, explaining when and where to use each one. By the end, you’ll know exactly which option fits your project‘s needs and local building requirements.
1. Standard Drywall (White Board)
Standard drywall, often called whiteboard or regular drywall, is the workhorse of the construction world. This is what most people think of when they hear “drywall”—the basic, cost-effective option that handles the majority of interior wall and ceiling applications.
You’ll find standard drywall in most living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and dining areas. It’s made from a gypsum core sandwiched between two layers of paper, typically available in ½-inch and ⅝-inch thicknesses. The ½-inch version works perfectly for most residential applications, while the thicker ⅝-inch option provides better soundproofing and fire resistance.
The main advantages of standard drywall include:
- Affordability and wide availability
- Easy installation and finishing
- Suitable for most interior spaces
- Good base for paint and wallpaper
2. Type X Drywall (Fire-Resistant)
Type X drywall takes fire safety seriously. This specialized board contains non-combustible fibers and additives that help it resist fire for extended periods, typically one hour for ⅝-inch thickness when properly installed.
Building codes often require Type X drywall in specific locations:
- Garages attached to living spaces
- Furnace rooms and utility areas
- Shared walls between townhouses or apartments
- Ceilings below fire-rated floor assemblies
The key difference lies in the core composition. While standard drywall contains mostly gypsum, Type X includes glass fibers and other fire-resistant materials that help maintain structural integrity even when exposed to high temperatures.
3. Greenboard (Moisture-Resistant Drywall)
The third type of drywall is Greenboard. Greenboard gets its name from the distinctive green paper facing that indicates moisture resistance. This type of drywall handles humidity better than standard options, making it popular for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements.
The green paper facing has been treated to repel moisture, which helps prevent the paper from deteriorating in humid conditions. This makes Greenboard ideal for:
- Bathroom walls (not shower areas)
- Laundry rooms and mudrooms
- Basement finishing projects
- Kitchen backsplash areas
Important note: Greenboard is moisture-resistant, not waterproof. It shouldn’t be used in areas with direct water exposure, like shower surrounds. The moisture resistance helps with humidity and occasional splashing, but prolonged water contact will eventually cause damage.
Many contractors appreciate Greenboard’s familiar installation process—it cuts, hangs, and finishes just like standard drywall while providing that extra moisture protection where needed.
4. DensShield and DensGlass Gold (Waterproof Options)
When you need serious water protection, DensShield and DensGlass Gold step up to the challenge. These materials handle direct water exposure that would destroy other drywall types.
DensShield features a fiberglass mat facer and water-resistant core provide excellent protection against water penetration, making it an ideal substrate for tile and other finishes in high-humidity environments such as:
- Behind kitchen and bathroom tile
- Basement walls prone to moisture
- Outdoor covered areas
DensGlass Gold is another popular choice for exterior wall applications. Key features and benefits of DensGlass Gold include:
- Superior moisture resistance
- Enhanced mold and mildew resistance
- Fire resistance
- Durability and stability
5. Soundproof Drywall (Acoustic Panels)
Soundproof drywall addresses one of the most common complaints in modern homes and buildings: noise transfer between rooms. This specialized drywall incorporates multiple layers and sound-dampening materials to reduce noise transmission.
Acoustic drywall works particularly well in:
- Home theaters and media rooms
- Master bedrooms adjacent to busy areas
- Home offices requiring quiet environments
- Multi-family buildings where noise control is essential
The construction typically involves multiple layers of gypsum with viscoelastic polymers that absorb sound vibrations. Some brands use lead-free materials while others incorporate rubber or other dampening compounds.
Choosing the Right Drywall for Each Room
Selecting the right type of drywall depends on the specific requirements of each space. Here’s a room-by-room breakdown to help guide your decisions:
Living Areas and Bedrooms: Standard ½-inch drywall works perfectly for most applications. Consider soundproof options for bedrooms adjacent to noisy areas.
Bathrooms: Use greenboard for walls, but never in shower areas. Cement board is essential behind tile in wet areas.
Kitchens: Standard drywall works for most areas, with moisture-resistant options behind sinks and near dishwashers.
Basements: Purple board or greenboard helps combat humidity issues common in below-grade spaces.
Garages: Type X drywall is typically required by code on walls and ceilings adjacent to living spaces.
Utility Rooms: Moisture-resistant options handle humidity from water heaters and HVAC equipment.
Make the Right Choice for Your Project
Understanding the different types of drywall available helps ensure your project meets both performance requirements and building codes. From basic standard drywall to specialized acoustic panels, each option serves specific needs that can make or break your finished space.
For professional installation and expert guidance on your next drywall project, contact Allen Drywall today. Our experienced team can help you select the right materials and ensure proper installation for lasting results.
