Not all drywall is the same. Choosing the right type for the application prevents moisture damage, fire spread, and other problems.
Drywall Basics
Standard drywall ('regular' or 'whiteboard') is appropriate for most interior wall and ceiling applications in dry areas of the home. It's the baseline product that most residential construction uses throughout living spaces.
Moisture-resistant drywall (green board or purple board) is specified for areas with elevated humidity — bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. It has a treated paper facing that resists moisture better than standard drywall but is not waterproof.
Installation Process
Cement board and fibre-cement backer are appropriate substrates for tile in wet applications (showers, tub surrounds). Unlike drywall products, they don't deteriorate when wet — an essential property behind tile that will be exposed to water.
Type X fire-rated drywall contains glass fibres that slow fire spread. It's required by building code in specific applications: garage-to-house separations, utility rooms, and apartment suite separations. Thickness and layer count are code-specified.
Finishing for a Flawless Result
Sag-resistant drywall for ceilings contains extra material that reduces deflection between joists. Standard drywall on 600mm joist spacing can sag over time, particularly in humid environments. Ceiling-rated panels maintain flatness.
Soundboard and acoustic panels improve sound transmission performance in party walls and home theatre applications. Combined with other sound control measures, they contribute to improved STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings.
Thickness selection: 12mm (1/2 inch) is standard for walls and ceilings on 400mm stud spacing; 16mm (5/8 inch) for fire-rated assemblies and for ceilings on 600mm joist spacing. Using undersized drywall in code-required fire applications is a serious non-compliance.
Key Takeaways
- Standard drywall ('regular' or 'whiteboard') is appropriate for most interior wall and ceiling applications in dry areas...
- Cement board and fibre-cement backer are appropriate substrates for tile in wet applications (showers, tub surrounds).
- Sag-resistant drywall for ceilings contains extra material that reduces deflection between joists.
- D&D Interior Services serves Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph and surrounding areas
- Get a free no-obligation quote — call or book online anytime
Sources & References
- Ontario Building Code — Relevant Standards & Guidelines
- D&D Interior Services field experience across Waterloo Region
