What Is Drywall? How It Works and Why It’s Used in Construction

Drywall is a fundamental component in modern construction, widely used in both residential and commercial buildings. Known for its versatility, affordability, and ease of installation, drywall has become the go-to material for constructing walls and ceilings.

Beyond its practical benefits, drywall also plays a crucial role in enhancing energy efficiency and fire resistance in buildings.

What Is Drywall?

Drywall, commonly referred to as plasterboard in Australia, is a panel made of gypsum sandwiched between thick sheets of paper. It is also known as gypsum board or Sheetrock (a brand name widely used in the United States). This material is lightweight yet durable, making it an ideal choice for interior wall and ceiling applications.

workers working on ceiling and drywall

History of Drywall

Drywall was invented in 1916 as a faster and more affordable alternative to traditional plaster walls. Initially, it was slow to gain popularity, but by the mid-20th century, plasterboard had become the standard for residential and commercial construction due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Its rapid adoption was driven by the demand for faster construction methods during housing booms, particularly after World War II. Today, drywall is an essential part of modern building practices across the globe.

Drywall vs. Plaster: Key Differences

Historically, plaster was the primary material for interior walls. However, the introduction of drywall revolutionized construction by simplifying the installation process. Unlike plaster, which requires multiple layers and a lengthy drying period, drywall can be installed and finished within days, significantly reducing labor costs and project timelines.

Feature	Drywall	Plaster
Material Composition	Gypsum core with paper facing	Lime, cement, or gypsum mixed with water
Installation Process	Installed in large sheets, then taped and finished	Applied in layers over wooden lath or metal mesh
Drying Time	Quick installation, minimal drying time	Requires multiple coats and extensive drying
Cost	More affordable	Higher labor and material costs
Durability	Good durability, but can be damaged by impact	Extremely durable but prone to cracking over time

Types of Drywall Panels

Different types of drywall panels are available to meet various construction needs:

Standard: The most common type, used for general wall and ceiling applications.
Moisture-Resistant: Also known as green board, this type is ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, where humidity is a concern.
Fire-Resistant: Manufactured with fiberglass to enhance fire resistance, commonly used in garages, stairwells, and commercial buildings to improve safety.
Soundproof: Designed with extra layers to minimize noise transmission, making it suitable for home theaters, recording studios, and offices where acoustic insulation is important.

Common Drywall Thicknesses and Sizes

In Australia, drywall comes in standard thicknesses and sizes:

10mm: Ideal for walls in residential properties, providing adequate strength while remaining lightweight.
13mm: Commonly used for ceilings to prevent sagging, particularly in larger spans.
16mm: Used for commercial applications and areas requiring additional fire resistance and soundproofing.
Standard Sizes: 1200mm x 2400mm and 1200mm x 3000mm, though custom sizes are available to suit specific project needs.

The Drywall Installation Process

a worker doing drywall finishing

Installing drywall involves several steps:

Framing: Secure wooden or metal studs to create the wall or ceiling framework, ensuring proper alignment and support.
Measuring and Cutting: Cut drywall panels to fit the desired space using a utility knife or saw.
Securing Panels: Attach the panels to the framework using screws or nails, ensuring they are flush and properly fastened.
Taping and Mudding: Apply joint tape and compound to seams for a smooth finish, reducing visible gaps.
Sanding and Finishing: Sand down the compound to achieve a flawless surface ready for painting or wallpapering.
Priming and Painting: Apply primer before painting for a professional and durable finish.

Finishing Techniques for Drywall

To achieve a polished appearance, various finishing techniques are used:

Level 1: Basic joint taping for concealed areas, such as attics or storage spaces.
Level 2: A thin coat of compound for semi-finished spaces like garages, where aesthetics are less critical.
Level 3: Additional layers of compound for light texture, suitable for walls that will receive heavy wallpaper.
Level 4: A smooth finish ready for paint or wallpaper, ideal for most residential and commercial applications.
Level 5: The highest quality finish, ideal for glossy paints and spaces with bright lighting that highlight imperfections.

Benefits of Using Drywall in Construction

Drywall offers several advantages:

Fire Resistance: Fire-rated drywall helps slow the spread of flames, providing additional safety.
Sound Insulation: Soundproof drywall reduces noise between rooms, improving acoustic comfort.
Energy Efficiency: Drywall enhances insulation, reducing energy costs by maintaining indoor temperatures.
Quick Installation: Faster and more efficient compared to plaster walls, reducing labor costs.
Cost-Effectiveness: Affordable material with minimal labor costs, making it a budget-friendly option for construction projects.

painting a drywall

Common Applications of Drywall

Drywall is widely used in various construction projects:

Residential Homes: Interior walls and ceilings in new builds and renovations.
Commercial Buildings: Office partitions, soundproofing, and decorative elements.
Retail Spaces: Custom-built displays, bulkheads, and architectural features.
Government and Public Buildings: Durable and fire-resistant installations in schools, hospitals, and offices.

Maintenance and Repair of Drywall

To extend the lifespan of drywall, proper maintenance is essential:

Prevent Moisture Damage: Use moisture-resistant drywall in humid areas and address leaks promptly.
Repair Cracks and Holes:
- Small holes: Fill with spackle and sand smooth before repainting.
- Large holes: Cut out the damaged section and patch with a new piece of drywall, securing it properly.
- Cracks: Apply joint compound and reinforce with drywall tape to prevent further damage.

Related article: Mould Inspection Techniques

Cost Considerations

The cost of drywall depends on various factors:

Material Costs: Standard drywall costs less than specialized options like fire-resistant or soundproof panels.
Labor Costs: Professional installation ranges from $30 to $60 per square meter in Australia, depending on complexity.
Project Size: Larger projects may offer cost savings per square meter due to bulk pricing.
Additional Finishes: Textured finishes or higher-level smoothing increase costs but enhance aesthetic appeal.

Final Words

Drywall is an essential component of modern construction, offering durability, efficiency, and versatility. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating an existing space, drywall provides a cost-effective solution for creating smooth, well-insulated walls and ceilings.

Considering a home renovation or new construction project in Australia? Our expert team specializes in drywall installation, ensuring quality and efficiency. Contact us today to discuss your project and receive a free consultation.

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