Drywall ceilings can help maximize ceiling height in your basement.
Drywall creates a smooth, finished look for basement ceilings in the home. Homeowners have a surprising number of options to choose from beyond basic wallboard. Before you make a purchase, consider factors like safety, cost and aesthetic appeal to find the best drywall product for your basement ceiling.
Standard Drywall
Standard drywall represents the most common and most economical option for those looking to drywall a basement ceiling. This product ranges in thickness from 3/8 to 1/2 inch, and can be used in most general-purpose wall and ceiling applications.
Fire-Rated Drywall
Fire-rated drywall, or Type X drywall, helps to slow the spread of heat and flames during a fire emergency. Some building codes require contractors to use this product around furnaces, boilers or garages, though some codes may not require this material in residential applications. According to "This Old House," Type X drywall measures 5/8 inch thick and costs about $0.75 more per sheet than standard drywall.
Ceiling Board
Ceiling board consists of a specially manufactured core designed to maximize sag resistance. This 1/2 inch thick board weighs less than standard drywall, but offers the same level of strength and durability. Some ceiling board is fire-rated, while other varieties offer no added fire protection.
Green Board
Green board, or moisture-resistant drywall, features a green paper finish that helps to distinguish it from other drywall products. Manufacturers may use fiberglass or oil-coated paper to help improve moisture resistance and reduce the risk of mold or mildew. This product is often used in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, but also performs well in basements and other spaces subject to high humidity or moisture exposure.
Blue Board
Blue board is a type of specialty drywall named for its blue paper coating. Compared to traditional drywall, blue board has a very thick, high-quality coating designed to meet the needs of veneer plaster applications. Homeowners who plan to add veneer plaster or plaster finishes to the basement ceiling should choose this product to prevent the moisture in the plaster from damaging the gypsum core of the ceiling.
Sound Board
Sound board, or sound-resistant drywall helps to reduce the transfer of noise between different floors of the home. It ranges in thickness from 1/2 inch to as much as 1 3/8 inch in rooms where noise control is a high priority. This type of drywall may require special clips or other installation techniques that help to further improve its ability to block sound.
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