PVC is one of the most effective drywall alternatives for garage walls and ceilings. The popularity of vinyl panels is spreading faster than fire.
Drywall is the cheapest and maybe easiest to repair. Plywood is probably the most versatile in a garage. Other materials like FRP, cementious, or steel panel products will not be versatile, but look good. You can also vary where each material is placed based on storage/use, or do just a wainscot.
Plywood or OSB
Plywood and OSB offer several benefits that make them suitable options for garage walls: Strength and Durability: Both plywood and OSB are relatively durable materials that can withstand the rigors of a garage environment.
Plywood and OSB board, two common woods used for garage walls, are both durable and long-lasting options. They are durable enough to hang heavy items without worrying about hitting studs, and they can survive the abuse that occurs with careless young drivers. A room can be better protected from noise with their help.
Plywood or OSB board: Wood walls make a durable option for garages: They can take a beating from teenagers carelessly backing out the family car and are strong enough to hang tools and equipment without worrying so much about studs. They also help absorb sound.
PVC panels are impact-resistant, whereas drywall is prone to damage. Drywall contributes to landfill waste, decomposing into a pungent-smelling hydrogen sulfide gas. On the other hand, PVC panels are eco-friendly, have a low carbon footprint and can be recycled several times.
Metal panels, plywood, OSB, and backer boards are inexpensive options for garage wall finishing. You have two options for finishing materials for your garage wall; your choice should be based on your budget. Every option comes with its own set of pros and cons.
But when it comes to inexpensive materials, plywood is a great choice. Installation is super easy, especially if you have a licensed contractor by your side to help you with all the nuances of the process. Because it is a lighter material than others, Plywood requires fewer screws which means less work.
The structure of plywood is stronger than drywall, making it suitable for utility areas like laundry rooms and garages. To improve the visual appeal of plywood walls, you can use varnish or sealer, stain or paint, or decorative accents.
Drywalling a garage is a smart decision if you want to protect your garage from fires, moisture damage, and exterior noise. Most garages have flammable supplies that could result in serious damage in the off chance of an accident. Drywall is fire resistant, helping to prevent fires from spreading.
Shiplap is a popular wall material to match a farmhouse aesthetic; plus, it is very durable and can be affordable for your budget. It's also easy to install, so you may be able to do it yourself to save money. Oriented strand board (OSB board). OSB is also a highly affordable option.
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Attached garages need drywall applied to the walls between the house and the garage. This is part of the fire resistant construction code. Detached garages do not need drywall UNLESS there is habitable space in the garage.
Is it cheaper to shiplap or drywall? Drywall is generally cheaper than shiplapping walls, with an average cost of around $1.50 - $2 per sq foot. However, shiplapped walls bring a unique aesthetic to rooms that drywall can't match. For this reason, many homeowners find that the higher price point is justified.
Plaster & Lath
Before there was drywall, plaster and lath was the go-to. But when drywall rose to popularity, this method was less and less used. If you are looking for a more traditional alternative to drywall, this might be your choice.
OSB is a quite tough material compared to sheetrock. It is the best option in building structures like garages because of its resistance to damage. Normal garage activities will do very minimal damage to OSB. Thus, it would be advisable to go for OSB.
In general, for most garage wall applications, plywood between 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch thick is considered adequate. This range offers a good balance of durability and affordability, providing enough support for light to medium-duty loads such as shelves, hooks, and tools.
Plywood is very rigid and stiff. The layers of veneers offer tensile strength to the plywood, making it stiff. Gypsum board are made with lightweight materials. These materials make it easier to bend and fold than plywood.
Wahoo Walls are made of non-organic materials that are unharmed by water and do not support the growth of mold. Made of JetBoard brand Magnesium Oxide adhered to an Integrity EPS by Atlas R-13 panel that is rated R-15/16 when used continuously without studs. These durable solid walls are fast and easy to install.
Unlike traditional drywall, PVC wall and ceiling panels are non-porous and 100% waterproof. They never absorb water, making them resistant to mold and mildew. This makes them particularly suitable for use in garages, which can occasionally experience high humidity levels from spills or moisture.
The primary function of a vapor barrier is moisture control. In the garage, like other spaces in the home, condensation results from moisture in the air. Excess condensation and humidity levels in your garage can damage your garage's foundation and cause tools, vehicles, and cabinets to rust faster.