Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Drywall Versus Gypsum

Drywall contains gypsum plaster.


The construction material called drywall is also called gypsum board because most drywall is made with gypsum plaster and thick paper. To finish interior walls, you can either put up drywall or apply layers of gypsum plaster to seal interior walls. There are advantages and disadvantages to both methods. When choosing construction materials to finish interior walls, homeowners should consider the moisture level of their home, the time they have to finish walls and their insulation needs.


Advantages of Drywall


Because drywall is a flat board with plaster already applied, many homeowners find that installing drywall is easier and more cost-efficient than using gypsum plaster. Homeowners can easily install drywall on interior walls using a nail gun and finishing tape that covers up the seams between the boards. Drywall can also be easier to finish using wallpaper or paint, and it is easy to repair if damaged. Modern sheetrock is also fire-resistant and can deaden sound.


Advantages of Gypsum Plaster


The method of plastering interior walls with gypsum plaster, while time consuming, can result in a more durable and solid wall. The layers of plaster inside the wall create a wall that is thick, insulated and resistant to mold growth. Gypsum plaster products are versatile, lightweight and create texture on an interior wall. Plaster can also be easily spread over curved or uneven surfaces unlike drywall, which comes in straight panels. While it may seem like a daunting task for do-it-yourself homeowners, plastering a wall can be easy and result in a striking look.


Disadvantages of Drywall


Because it is made of paper, drywall can absorb moisture, which leads to mold growth. Wall board can also be softer and more easily damaged than a plaster wall. Since drywall is thinner than the layers in a plastered wall, it can be less insulating than a wall finished with plaster.


Disadvantages of Gypsum Plaster


The main disadvantage to gypsum plaster that many homeowners experience is the process of applying plaster. First, it can be difficult to get the right mixture of plaster and water to create the correct consistency. Applying plaster in an even coat can also be difficult if the homeowner doesn't have experience with this sort of construction task. Plaster can also take a long time to dry, especially in humid areas, and it can be less durable than certain types of drywall.



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