Here’s How to Choose Drywall

Types of Drywall

Also known as plasterboard, gypsum board or wallboard, drywall panels are secured to your home’s framing, providing an even surface for paint or wallpaper. Different types of drywall are designed for different conditions. Here are the most common types.

Buying Considerations

When choosing the right drywall for your next home improvement project, research your drywall size and thickness options. Installation location will likely influence your decision. Here’s what to think about.

Drywall Size

Drywall comes in four standard board dimensions: 4 feet by 8 feet and 4 feet by 9 feet (standard sizes and the most common options), 4 feet by 10 feet (ideal for tall walls) and 4 feet by 12 feet (designed for very tall rooms, such as great rooms).

Drywall Thickness

The standard thickness for drywall is a 1/2 inch. Thicker 5/8-inch drywall is typically fire resistant and/or soundproof. Extra thin drywall boards (1/4 inch or 3/8 inch) are typically installed over existing walls to cover damage.

Installation Location

Location will largely dictate your drywall choice. A bedroom next to a busy street will benefit from soundproofing drywall, for example, while ceiling height will dictate board size. Thickness may be determined by the product category itself.

Drywall Accessories

These products can help you get the best results from your drywall installation project. Use them to achieve smooth surfaces with nearly invisible seams, corners and joints.

Drywall Compound

Use this paste (also known as drywall mud) to fills gaps and holes and to smooth away the surface of drywall tape.

Framing

Give extra support to bulkheads, soffits, ceilings and other drywall applications with metal framing aids.

Beads & Trim

Install these prefabricated strips to create clean corners and cover the raw edge of drywood panels.

Repair Clips

Some holes are too big to cover with drywood tape. These clips secure cut-to-fit drywood pieces in place and can be camouflaged with tape and putty.

Drywall & Joint Tapes

Conceal drywall joints and screws or patch holes in drywall with versatile paper or fibreglass mesh tape, available in versions that complement your drywall (i.e. standard, mildew-and moisture-resistant, etc.).

Wall Patches

These fibreglass-and-aluminum drywall patches are essential for repairing drywall damage in high-traffic areas where more contact is likely.