If you’re about to start a DIY drywall project at home, you might come across another term ‘sheetrock’ but do you know what it is? It is basically drywall but are they the same thing?
Although Sheetrock is a particular brand of drywall, the two terms are now frequently used in the same context. Even though some Sheetrock is weatherproofed for exterior ceilings, it is also utilized as a substitute for lath and plaster for building internal walls and ceilings.
This article explains the difference between drywall and sheetrock and how to choose the right one for your project.
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What’s the difference between drywall and sheetrock?
Drywall and sheetrock are basically the same thing. Sheetrock is a brand of drywall that is very popular, especially in the United States.
So actually, sheetrock and drywall are interchangeable terms. Gypsum plaster is pushed between two heavy sheets of paper to create drywall, which is a panel. The US Gypsum Company has a patent for the drywall under the name Sheetrock. Both are utilized to create ceilings and walls.
There isn’t much of a difference between drywall and sheetrock, other than a few compounds that allow the sheetrock formula to be copyrighted. In reality, they are frequently used interchangeably and refer to the same construction material.
What is drywall?
Drywall is a building material manufactured from gypsum plaster, pressed between two thick sheets of paperboard.
It is most commonly used on walls and ceilings in residential or commercial construction. Its main advantages are that it’s relatively easy to install and provides superior soundproofing as well as fire protection.
Drywall is available in a range of thicknesses, depending on the application and can be cut with a saw or utility knife to fit any size wall or ceiling.
Drywall is also relatively inexpensive compared to other building materials and is easy to repair if it ever gets damaged.
What is sheetrock?
Sheetrock is a brand of drywall. It was created by the US Gypsum company and has become one of the most popular brands of wallboard used in residential and commercial construction.
It comes in many grades, from fire-resistant to waterproof. Sheetrock also comes in a variety of thicknesses, so you can find the right type for your project.
Sheetrock is similar to drywall in many ways, but it has a few unique features that make it stand out. Sheetrock is more resistant to moisture and humidity, making it ideal for bathrooms and other wet areas.
Additionally, some Sheetrock products are fire-resistant, which makes them an excellent choice for areas that require fireproofing.
How thick is drywall vs sheetrock?
Drywall and sheetrock come in a range of thicknesses, including 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, 1/2-inch, 5/8-inch and up to three-quarters inch. The most common thickness for residential construction is 1/2 inch.
The type of drywall or sheetrock you choose will depend on the job you’re doing. For example, if you are installing drywall in a basement, you’ll want to use thicker sheets because it will be more soundproof and fire-resistant.
It’s important to note that even though Sheetrock is marketed as being stronger than regular drywall, they are actually quite similar in terms of thickness.
When it comes time to choose between drywall and sheetrock for a particular project, you will want to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each in order to make an informed decision that fits your budget and other needs.
Both materials can provide excellent results when used properly, so it’s important to do some research ahead of time.
How heavy is sheetrock and drywall?
Drywall and sheetrock both weigh about the same although there are some differences.
Typically, a single sheet of ordinary drywall weighs around 50 pounds. However, there is also a lightweight option for gypsum panels that ranges in weight from 13 to 37 pounds.
Although it may look excessively hefty for such a tiny board, there is still ground-up gypsum rock sandwiched between two sheets of paper. It has some weight thanks to the ground-up rock.
Even while it can appear heavier than you anticipated, working with and moving it around is still fairly simple. After you’ve positioned a few boards, you’ll become accustomed to doing it and be able to do it correctly and effortlessly.
Is sheetrock more expensive than drywall?
Sheetrock is considered to be of better quality so it’s generally more expensive than regular drywall.
In addition, Sheetrock also tends to be more durable, fire-resistant and water-resistant than conventional drywall.
However, this does not necessarily mean that it is always more expensive. Depending on the job, you may find that regular drywall is more cost-effective than Sheetrock.
It’s important to do some research and compare prices before making a decision on which material to use for your project.
Drywall vs sheetrock vs drywall mud
Drywall and Sheetrock are the same thing but they are slightly different when it comes to applying joint compound or “drywall mud”.
Drywall mud is a paste made of gypsum dust and water that is used to fill any joints or imperfections in drywall.
Sheetrock has an improved formula which makes it easier to apply drywall mud by providing a smoother surface. The improved formula also allows Sheetrock joint compound to bond better with the paper surface of the Sheetrock, making it more durable than regular drywall.
In conclusion, while there is no significant difference between drywall and sheetrock, Sheetrock has a few unique features that make it stand out from drywall. It is slightly more resistant to moisture, fire-resistant and easier to apply joint compound than regular drywall.
When deciding which type of wall covering you should use for your project, consider both the pros and cons of each material and make sure that it suits your specific needs.
Also read: Can you use drywall primer on painted walls?
Can you use a drywall sander on sheetrock?
Yes, you can use a drywall sander on sheetrock. Sheetrock is a brand of drywall, and both materials are made from gypsum plaster pressed between thick sheets of paperboard.
A drywall sander is designed to quickly sand down the surface of walls without damaging them, so it is suitable for use on sheetrock as well.
Also read: can you use drywall primer on wood?
Final thoughts
In conclusion, sheetrock and drywall are similar in many ways. Sheetrock is a brand of drywall and though it can also be used for exterior applications, it is more commonly used for interior walls and ceilings.
It has excellent moisture resistance and some products are even fire proof making it a great choice for areas that require extra protection.
Both drywall and sheetrock are relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and provide superior soundproofing as well as fire protection.
Be sure to choose the right product for your project based on the type of application you are working on.
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