What are the benefits of thicker drywall?

Author: Paris DuBuque  |  Last update: Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Oct 17, 2023
  • Enhanced Strength and Durability: The thicker composition of 5/8" drywall provides increased strength and durability, making it resistant to dents and damage. ...
  • Improved Fire Resistance: ...
  • Superior Soundproofing Properties: ...
  • Stability in High Humidity Areas: ...
  • Ideal for Ceiling Applications:

Is thicker drywall better?

⅝ - inch thick drywall

⅝ – inch are more reliable for ceilings as they do not sag as much between the joints than a ½ – inch drywall panel. ⅝ – inch drywall panels are also great for holding textures since it does not sag compared to lighter drywall panels.

Should I use 1/2-inch or 5/8 inch drywall?

It depends on how far apart the studs are. If they are 16 inches a part you can use 1/2 inch sheet rock. If the studs are 24 inches apart you should use 5/8's inch sheet rock.

What happens if drywall mud is too thick?

Drywall compound shrinks as it dries, so if applied thick or if it has too much water it will crack. A few cracks on the first coat are ok since later coats will fill the cracks.

Will thick drywall mud crack?

Unfortunately, drywall mud can sometimes crack, which can be a pain to cover.

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Is it OK to add water to drywall mud?

Premixed joint compounds come in a variety of consistencies, depending on the brand, the factory where they were produced, and even regional formulas. The joint compound manufacturers allow users to add water to the compounds, but the formulas are designed be thinned with water only.

Is Level 5 drywall worth it?

A Level 5 drywall finish involves an additional skim coat of joint compound over the entire surface, providing the highest-quality finish. This level is essential for areas with critical lighting conditions, where the appearance of the wall is paramount. It can deliver a smooth, uniform surface.

Does thicker drywall help with sound?

Regular drywall, only thick sheets or double-layers: While it does not bring the most soundproofing, it is possible to use sheets of typical building drywall to create better sound resistance. This can either be a thicker piece (such as 5/8” instead of 1/2”) or a double layer of drywall, such as two 5/8” sheets.

What's the difference between drywall and sheetrock?

One key difference between the two is that sheetrock is a brand name of drywall made by the United States Gypsum Corporation. Another difference lies in their production process; sheetrock has a slightly denser core than drywall due to the addition of a small amount of wood fiber to the gypsum core.

What is fire code drywall?

Fireproof drywall is the common term; its industry name is Type X drywall. The thickness of this drywall is 5/8-inch, including all layers. Glass fibers are added to the board to help it slow down the fire. Also, because it is denser than normal gypsum and paper drywall, it takes longer for the fire to degrade it.

What is the most popular drywall size?

Of all the different types of drywall, 4-foot by 8-foot drywall that measures one half-inch thick is the most common option. Other drywall thicknesses, sizes and specialty boards may be available by special order. Get everything you need to finish your drywall project.

Why are thicker walls better?

Thick walls do us good. First of all, insulation is its number one asset, with thick walls it is easier to keep warm in winter and cool in summer. In addition to keeping a pleasant temperature throughout the seasons, thick walls also help to soundproof your home against noisy neighbours.

What is the best drywall to use in a house?

Moisture-and-mold resistant drywall is best used for interior walls, especially in areas like kitchens, bathrooms or basements. The best drywall boards for these areas have moisture-resistant cores that prevent water and moisture intrusion from seeping into the board itself.

Can I use 1/2 drywall in a garage?

Drywall type – Most garages use 1/2" standard or 5/8" fire-resistant drywall, depending on local building codes. Moisture-resistant drywall helps to prevent mold in areas with high humidity. Finish level – A Level 2 finish is most common in garages.

Why use thicker drywall?

In townhouses, for example, the shared walls between units may require double layers of 1/2-inch wallboard to create a very fire-resistant and sound-resistant wall. In ordinary residential construction, doubling up drywall thickness can reduce sound transmission and make for sturdier walls.

Is it okay to double up drywall?

Furthermore, double drywall contributes to better fire protection, especially when using fire-rated drywall. It also aids in insulation, making it ideal for homes located in extreme climates.

What is the R value of 1 2 drywall?

R-values for Drywall — How Do They Compare? Drywall has a relatively low R-value — about 0.45 at ½” thickness. This is similar to building materials such as siding, concrete, dirt, face brick, particleboard, wood and single-pane glass.

Do you sand a level 5 drywall finish?

To attain a Level 5 finish, two to three coats of joint compound are applied and meticulously sanded multiple times. This level is the choice for high-end residential or commercial spaces prioritizing a clean and professional appearance.

What's the difference between level 4 and level 5?

Level 4 A standard 3 coat tape job for painted surfaces that are not to be coated with gloss, semi-loss or enamel or where shinny wall covering will not be used. Level 5 is a level 4 tape job with one thin coat of compound spread over the surface to minimize texture and even out the surface for shinier finishes.

How much does Level 5 drywall cost?

Level 5. Level 5 drywall finish consists of two coats of joint compound on tape, a fine coat over the walls, and three coats on screw fittings. This costs between $1.75 and $3.50 per square foot.

Why does my drywall mud have bubbles in it?

When joint compound dries, it has to be able to do two things: evaporate and be absorbed. The tiny bubbles, called “pocks,” are trapped air bubbles created because there is a barrier—such as paint or primer or a harder mud, plaster, etc. —that will not let it be absorbed [into the drywall].

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