What Type of Drywall to Use in a Basement

Do you need to do some repairs to the walls of your basement? If so, you may be wondering what type of drywall to use. There are several different types available, and each has its own advantages.

In this guide, we will discuss the various types of drywall available, as well as help you decide which one is best for your needs.

What is Drywall?

Drywall is a type of wallboard that is used to create walls and ceilings. This is made from gypsum plaster, and is pressed between two sheets of heavy paper or fiberglass.

Drywall can be either nailed or screwed to the studs in your walls, and then the seams between the panels are covered with joint tape and joint compound.

Drywall is a very popular material for walls and ceilings because it is inexpensive, easy to install, and provides a smooth surface that can be painted or wallpaper.

It is often called sheetrock. Here you can learn about drywall vs sheetrock.

Why Do I Need Drywall in My Basement?

Basement walls are often made of concrete, which can be damp and difficult to work with. Drywall provides a barrier between your living space and the concrete, protecting your home from mold and mildew.

This is especially important in basements, where moisture is more likely to be present. Drywall is also easier to finish than concrete, so it provides a smoother surface for painting or wallpapering. You need to use the right type of drywall, though, to make sure it lasts in a damp basement environment.

9 Different Types of Drywall

There are several different types of drywall available for use in your home, each with its own advantages. Here are the most common types of drywall:

1. Regular Drywall

Regular drywall is the most common type of drywall used in homes. It is made from gypsum plaster, and is typically pressed between two sheets of paper.

Regular drywall is easy to install, and provides a smooth surface for painting or wallpapering. However, it is not as durable as some other types of drywall, and may be damaged by moisture.

If you are looking for a type of drywall that is easy to install and provides a smooth surface, regular drywall is a good option.

2. Soundproof Drywall

If you are looking for drywall that will help reduce noise, then soundproof drywall may be the right choice for your basement.

It is a type of drywall that is denser than regular, and contains acoustical sealant between the layers to help block out sound.

Soundproof drywall can be more expensive than regular, but it may be worth the investment if you want a quiet basement.

3. Moisture-resistant

Moisture-resistant drywall is a good choice for basements that may be prone to dampness or leaks. This type of drywall is treated with a water-resistant coating that helps prevent it from absorbing moisture.

If you plan on finishing your basement, moisture-resistant drywall is a good option to help ensure your space stays dry and comfortable. This drywall is also a good choice for bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other high-moisture areas.

4. Paperless drywall

Paperless drywall is made without the traditional paper facing. Instead, it has a fiberglass mat facing that helps resist mold and mildew. This type of drywall is best used in areas where moisture is present, such as basements or laundry rooms.

It’s also more expensive than traditional drywall. If you’re looking for a top-quality option that will resist moisture, paperless drywall is the way to go.

5. Eco-friendly drywall

Eco-friendly drywall is made of natural materials like wood fiber, cellulose, and recycled paper. It’s also free of harmful chemicals like volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Eco-friendly drywall is a great choice for basement walls because it’s durable and moisture-resistant. Plus, it’s a green option that will help you save on energy costs. Not only is eco-friendly drywall good for the environment, it’s also good for your wallet.

6. Mold resistant drywall

Mold-resistant drywall is a type of drywall that is treated with chemicals to resist mold growth. It is ideal for basements because it helps prevent mold and mildew from growing in a damp environment.

Mold-resistant drywall is available in both green and whiteboards. The green boards are more expensive than the whiteboards, but they are also more effective at preventing mold growth.

If you are concerned about mold and mildew growth in your basement, then mold-resistant drywall is the best option for you. This type of drywall will help keep your basement clean and free of mold and mildew.

7. Fire-resistant drywall

Mostly used in commercial buildings, fire-resistant drywall is a good choice for any basement. This type of drywall is made with non-combustible fiberglass mats.

It’s then treated with chemicals that make it more resistant to fire than regular drywall. Fire-resistant drywall is often used in basements because it can help slow the spread of fire.

Fire-resistant drywall is more expensive than regular drywall, but it’s worth the investment for the added safety it provides.

8. Purple drywall

Purple drywall offers an extra layer of protection against moisture and mildew. It can be used in any room that is prone to these issues, and it’s often used in basements.

Purple drywall is slightly more expensive than regular, but it’s worth the investment. After all, the last thing you want is for your drywall to be ruined by moisture.

9. Impact-resistant drywall

Impact-resistant drywall is a type of drywall that is made with fiberglass mats. It’s then treated with chemicals that make it more resistant to impact.

This type of drywall is often used in commercial buildings, but it can also be used in homes. If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes, then impact-resistant drywall is a good choice for you.

Things to Consider when Choosing Drywall for Your Basement

When choosing drywall for your basement, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

The type of climate you live in - The first thing you need to consider is the climate you live in. If you live in an area with high humidity, then you'll need to choose a type of drywall that can withstand moisture.
The level of moisture in your basement - The level of moisture in your basement is the biggest factor to consider when choosing drywall. If your basement is constantly damp or wet, you'll need to use a different type of drywall than if it's only occasionally damp.
The type of walls in your basement - The type of walls in your basement will also affect what type of drywall you should use. If your basement has cinderblock walls, for example, it's best to use mold-resistant drywall. If your basement has wood stud walls, any type of drywall will do.
Your budget - Another thing to consider is your budget. Some types of drywall are more expensive than others. If you're on a tight budget, you may need to choose a less expensive option.
The amount of foot traffic in your basement - The amount of foot traffic in your basement is also a factor to consider. If your basement is constantly being used, you'll need to choose a more durable type of drywall.

If you take all of these factors into consideration, then you will be able to choose the best type of drywall for your basement.

What Tips Do You Have for Hiring a Drywall Contractor?

When hiring a drywall contractor, make sure to get at least three quotes. Also, ask for references and check them out.

Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured. You should also ask to see samples of their work.

And finally, make sure you have a written contract before any work is started. Most importantly, trust your gut – if something feels off, it probably is.

Find out more here if you need to repair drywall.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the standard drywall thickness?

The standard drywall thickness is ½ inch. However, there are also ¼ and ⅝-inch thicknesses available. This thickness is suitable for most applications.

What drywall materials do I need for a basement?

The type of drywall you’ll need for your basement will depend on the climate you live in, the level of moisture in your basement, and the type of walls in your basement.

Do you need ceiling joists?

If you’re hanging drywall on a ceiling, you’ll need ceiling joists. These are horizontal beams that support the weight of the drywall. The standard spacing for ceiling joists is 16 inches in the center.

Is mildew-resistant drywall the same as mold-resistant drywall?

Yes, mildew-resistant drywall is the same as mold-resistant drywall. They are both made with fiberglass mats, and treated with chemicals that make them resistant to mold and mildew.

Are drywall contractors expensive?

The cost of hiring a drywall contractor will vary depending on the size of your project, and the complexity of the job. To get an accurate estimate, it’s best to get at least three quotes from different contractors, and to make sure that each one is legitimate and insured.

There are a few different types of drywall that can be used in a basement, but the most important factor to consider when doing so is to make sure that the drywall is properly sealed and waterproofed. If you are unsure about which type of drywall to use, consult with a professional contractor or basement waterproofing specialist.