Sheetrock comes in a variety of thicknesses for different purposes.
Sheetrock is used for a variety of construction purposes, generally in the interior of structures. It can be used for walls and ceilings, as well as other types of construction such as dividers. Sheetrock is also called "drywall," and these terms are used interchangeably. Though sheetrock comes in many thicknesses, only a few are used universally for the construction of walls.
About Sheetrock
Sheetrock is a building material made from compressed sheets of gypsum plaster that are pressed between sheets of paper. Sheetrock is the brand name of gypsum board made by the USG Corporation. Sheetrock replaced the use of plaster for residential wall surfaces because it is less expensive and easier to install. Do-it-yourselfers do not have to do the messy work of applying plaster, nor do they have to learn the techniques of proper plaster application.
Sheetrock Thicknesses
Generally, sheetrock comes in 4-foot by 8-foot sheets, though other sizes are available. Sheetrock comes in a variety of thicknesses for different uses. Most commonly used are 3/8-inch, 1/2-inch and 5/8-inch thicknesses. Special types of sheetrock, such as fire-retardant material, are usually 5/8 inch thick. Thicknesses as small as 1/4 inch may be used for special purposes. This type of thin sheetrock is often laid over existing walls to create a new surface.
Sheetrock For Walls
The most commonly used thickness of sheetrock used for walls is the 1/2-inch size. The square-edge type is used so that the edges can be joined tightly. Special types of sheetrock for walls exist, such as insulating drywall for rooms that do not heat adequately or water-resistant drywall for use in rooms that see a great deal of moisture, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Though other types of sheetrock are available, such as high-quality wallboard and tapered edge drywall, these are most often used on ceilings.
Installation of Sheetrock on Walls
Sheetrock is installed onto the framing materials that make up the interior wall structure. The panels are nailed onto the wood frame slats. Drywall nails have a ringed or barbed shank. Drywall screws are also available, which are similar in appearance to sheet metal screws. The seams between the panels are then taped to create continuous surface. The sheetrock and the joints are then covered with drywall compound to a smooth and level plane. The compound is then allowed to dry thoroughly before priming and painting to the desired color.
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