If you’ve read our Choosing a Contractor blog and you’ve decided that you’re going to tackle your home improvement project yourself, we’re here to help! Check out a few of our tips and tricks for choosing drywall (all suggestions are ATSM International approved).
When choosing drywall for your DIY project, you first need to think about how the space is going to be used. Are you reworking a home office? Installing a home theater? Renovating your dated kitchen? No matter what project you’re working on, there’s a drywall that works best!
- Moisture/Mold
If you’re renovating or designing an area that is prone to high moisture and the possibility of mold, you’ll definitely want moisture-resistant drywall. More durable than standard drywall, moisture-resistant drywall is composed of compressed gypsum core but is made with a thicker coating of paper covered with wax for water resistance.
Our suggestion for moisture-resistant drywall is CertainTeed’s M2Tech Moisture & Mold Resistant Drywall. - Fire-Resistant
Fire-rated designed drywall is recommended for spaces such as multi-family residential buildings (apartment complexes, duplexes, etc.) and commercial spaces. In buildings such as these, it’s imperative that fire-resistant, ASTM International approved drywall is used. It should be noted that fire-resistant gypsum are not completely fireproof, but are known to delay the spread of fire in order to allow for occupants more time to exit the building safely.
Choose CertainTeed’s Type X Fire-Resistant Drywall for optimum heat resistance. - Sound Proof/Privacy
Finally adding that home movie theater? Or are you ready to soundproof your office? Either way, there’s a drywall for that! Whether you’re looking for soundproofing or extra privacy, sound-dampening drywall or gypsum boards are most ideal for retaining sound in a compact space.
CertainTeed’s SilentFX QuickCut Noise-Reducing Drywall for unwanted noises and to improve sound attenuation. - Easy to Lift and Install
Another good option is drywall that is designed for easy install. This drywall is up to 30% lighter in weight, easy to lift and carry and easy to install which means faster installation!
Check out our selection of CertainTeed’s Easi-Lite drywall boards.
When it comes to drywall, there are plenty of options. Just make sure to put in some time for research and some additional time in shopping around your local home improvement store for the best choices!
