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.
Plywood more durable than drywall. Depending on how you use your garage, bumps and taps on drywall could leave dings that plywood could possibly withstand.
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.
A semi-gloss finish is ideal for garage walls as it reflects light and is easy to clean. Thorough wall preparation, including cleaning and priming, is essential for a smooth and long-lasting paint job. Applying at least two coats of paint ensures even coverage and durability, particularly in high-traffic areas.
Consider a subtle, low-sheen eggshell paint if your garage has big windows to prevent a distracting glare. Eggshell is ideal for your garage ceiling to mute harsh lighting and create a more inviting atmosphere. It is a little more durable than flat paint but isn't easy to clean, so avoid use in high-traffic spaces.
Drywalling Your Garage Is a Great Project
For those that spend a lot of time in the garage or have some of their most valuable belongings in there, putting up drywall in your garage is definitely worth while. It adds protection, appeal and longevity to your garage as a whole.
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.
While it primarily depends on lumber costs, presently, wood paneling costs more than drywall.
Typically, the cheapest type of garage conversion will just involve blocking up the garage doors and finishing out the walls, floors, and ceiling with insulation, drywall, carpet, or other flooring material.
Lining Out A Concrete Garage
Ply board is a good option as it is sturdy and repels moisture well. Depending on what you want to use the building for, you may wish to use plasterboard then plaster the inside of the building. The lining material can simply be screwed or nailed to the timber battens.
Always leave a 1/2-inch gap at the floor.
In terms of strength, plywood is preferred over gypsum board. Its multiple thin layers of veneer help it hold a considerable amount of weight. However, it is more difficult to fix than drywall. Gypsum boards, on the other hand, are prone to crumbling and cracking.
Garage walls can be unsightly and the sheathing options are limited. The two most obvious options are drywall and plywood. Plywood, a versatile and widely used material, often emerges as a strong contender.
People commonly misuse the word firewall to refer to the wall between the garage and the house. The wall between the house and garage is actually called a fire separation wall, not a firewall. A firewall is a fire-resistance-rated wall. It extends from foundation to or through the roof.
Plywood. Plywood is a great option for unfinished walls, as it's easy to install and doesn't require finishing like drywall. Seriously—you just screw it to the studs and you're done.
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.
Strength and Durability: Both plywood and OSB are relatively durable materials that can withstand the rigors of a garage environment. They are less prone to dents and damage from impacts compared to drywall, making them a resilient choice for walls that may be subject to bumps from tools or equipment.
Faux-brick paneling may be a great shiplap alternative for you. It is better for renters as it is easy to install (just peel and stick) and easy to take down without damaging the wall underneath. Faux-brick paneling can be an easy DIY, saving you the costs of installation.
If your walls have a lot of holes, gouges, or marks, putting drywall on the existing drywall can be one way to give them a facelift. You may also decide to put drywall over drywall if you've come to regret your previous design choices, such as old wallpaper or paneling.
Use Type X fire-resistant drywall for garages, as well as stairwells and areas near furnaces. While not totally impervious to fire, Type X drywall is designed to provide enhanced resistance to fire compared to basic fire-resistant drywall. Type X drywall tends to be thicker than other types.
The sheen needed for garage walls is also important to note. Semi-gloss or satin finishes are the best choices as they'll provide a cleanable surface and just enough reflection to camouflage inevitable imperfections like dents, screwheads, and uneven texture.
If you're tackling a single-car garage, you can expect the total cost to land somewhere between $360 and $840. For a two-car garage, the cost rises to $660 to $1,540. And if you have a larger three-car garage, you could be looking at $930 to $2,170 to drywall the entire space. Keep in mind that these are just averages.