Drywall forms the basis for most modern building projects, but the material does have its downfalls. Once of these is moisture issues; drywall is not meant to be installed anywhere that constant moisture can damage the material. So when you are considering what materials to use for the walls in your basement, look at all types of drywall before deciding.
Regular Drywall
Regular drywall is made up of two paper faces with a soft center that makes hanging it easier, but does not resist any invasion of moisture. Regular drywall installation does include mudding and taping of the seams between the panels that keeps moisture out of the gaps, but the material itself will quickly absorb moisture, leading to mold growth and expansion that will lead to cracks in the surface. Regular drywall should only be used in a fully finished basement where flooding, or even moisture seeping from the concrete walls, is not an issue at all.
Green Board
Green board is a moisture-resistant version of drywall. The material gets its name from the green paper that covers its faces; in general, it's simply called moisture-resistant drywall. This material is ideal for areas that have exposure to moisture in the area and only occasional direct exposure to water. For example, green board would be ideal behind the sink or on the wall of a bathroom where it can tolerate the high humidity and occasionally spills from the sink. However, it could not be installed in a shower surround, even if it was covered by tile; the moisture would seep through the grout and into the paper facing, causing serious disintegration and potential mold problems. Use this type of drywall in basements that experience high humidity but no direct moisture issues.
Cement Board
Cement board is the only fully waterproof version of drywall. This material features no paper faces; instead, it is a compact mixture of cement and sand. There are also versions of this material that feature gypsum cores. These materials are unaffected by even direct exposure to moisture; they will not deteriorate or mold. There may be slight expansion and compaction as the moisture and humidity levels change, which is why the material is generally installed with an expansion gap. This material is for basements with direct moisture exposure or flooding issues.
Further Considerations
If you are unsure about what type of drywall to use for your basement, consult a professional builder or contractor or talk to a professional at a hardware or home improvement store. You can also conduct moisture tests on the walls of your basement that can help to determine your needs. Remember that water resistant and waterproof are not the same thing; be sure you read all product recommendations and instructions before installing anything in your basement.
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