The quickest and cheapest ways to build garage walls are plywood, MDF, or OSB. They are easily installed over studs with frame screws and, in contrast to drywall, don't need to be taped, mudded, or sanded.
If you are thinking of covering your shop or garage walls, there are many options. The 3 cheapest options are drywall, metal siding and OSB. Depending on you application, any one of these may be fine for your shop. For me, OSB was the best choice. OSB is cheap, mouse resistant, flat, and able to be screwed to.
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.
Well the cheapest would be to paint. Paint the walls and floor (consult the paint professional at the store to get the right paint). If you feel confident paint a wall graphic (google ideas for basement wall graphics). Put down cheap area rugs. In July/August they will have them for back to college.
In summary, drywall is generally cheaper than wood paneling in terms of material and installation costs. However, the final decision may depend on aesthetic preferences, durability, and specific project needs.
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.
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.
The quickest and cheapest ways to build garage walls are plywood, MDF, or OSB. They are easily installed over studs with frame screws and, in contrast to drywall, don't need to be taped, mudded, or sanded.
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.
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.
Plywood is a combustible material, which raises concerns about fire safety in garages. Unlike drywall, which is inherently fire-resistant, plywood can contribute to the spread of fire.
In general, avoid flat paint for garages. While flat finishes can hide wall imperfections, they are difficult to clean and absorb stains easily. Instead, opt for satin or semi-gloss finishes. Satin offers a subtle sheen and is moisture-resistant, making it easy to wipe clean.
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.
There are two materials that are most used to install garage cladding in the UK – uPVC and Timber. Both options are affordable, lasts for decades and require very little maintenance.
In most cases, fiberglass batts/rolls are still the simplest and all-around cheapest option for detached garage insulation.
Plywood is cost-effective and easy to work with. MDF is cheap but less sturdy. Cement board costs more but lasts longer in damp areas. Beadboard and veneer plaster are stylish options.
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.
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.
Vinyl siding is also one of the cheapest siding options on the market, both in material and installation costs. Vinyl siding can be installed quickly and can even be installed directly over existing material. The average price of vinyl siding is $2 to $7 per square foot, installed.
Bamboo is the cheapest wall paneling option.
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Plywood. Practicality is key to good interior design. Sure, aesthetic is also important as you want your home to look good on top of being functional. But when it comes to inexpensive materials, plywood is a great choice.
She says shiplap requests “have definitely cooled off” in the last year. “We've even had clients eliminate it at the last minute, worried it was too trendy,” Conte adds. Designers who participated in Apartment Therapy's 2024 design trend prediction survey agreed, saying this is the year to say goodbye to shiplap.