Garage Drywall Guide: Choosing the Right Type for Safety and Durability
You have stared at that garage for months or even years. It’s ugly, wasted space, and frankly just seems like a large junk-collecting storage bin.
You have visions of an orderly and functional space that adds value and a pleasing aesthetic to your home. Simply finishing the walls with new drywall is the first step to bringing your dream to life. However, upon completing some research, you discover you now have more questions than answers for your project.
Keep reading to understand how to choose the right drywall for your garage to achieve the durability, safety, and overall performance you are seeking for the space. Making the right decision can save you time, money, and future repairs.Table of Contents
- What Does Drywall Actually Do in a Garage?
- Common Situations That Call for Garage Drywall Work
- 4 Most Common Drywall Types for Garages
- Why Garage Drywall Requirements Are Different From the Rest of the House
- Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Drywall
- How Building Codes Can Influence Garage Drywall Choices
- Common Garage Drywall Mistakes Homeowners Run Into
- What a Professional Garage Drywall Evaluation Should Include
- Professional Garage Drywall Services Backed by Benson Drywall’s Experience and Guarantee
What Does Drywall Actually Do in a Garage?
Drywall, also called sheetrock, wallboard, or gypsum board, became the standard for residential construction in the 1940s. It consists of a gypsum core sandwiched between paper facings, manufactured in 4×8-foot sheets that can be quickly installed.
The sheets are screwed or nailed directly to wall studs, and the seams are taped and finished with joint compound. A skilled finisher can create a surface that is virtually indistinguishable from plaster once painted.
Drywall is a popular option due to ease of installation and lower labor costs compared to other materials such as traditional plaster.
Drywall in your garage, however, goes way beyond appearance and helps with functions such as:- Fire resistance
- Separation of living spaces
- Structural consistency
- Protection of the structural frame from daily wear and tear
Common Situations That Call for Garage Drywall Work
- Settling from new or recent construction
- Water damage
- Cracks, holes, or scuffs from furniture
- Remodeling or garage upgrades
- Tenant turnover from a rental agreement
4 Most Common Drywall Types for Garages
#1: Standard
You can use standard drywall on walls that do not connect to your home’s living spaces or areas that are not exposed to weather conditions.
However, for a uniform texture and durable finish, using one of the more specialized types throughout the garage is a good idea.#2: Fire-Rated
#3: Moisture-Resistant
The accumulation of moisture in garages, especially in Portland’s damp climate, can wreak havoc on the building.
Drywall is essentially compressed gypsum wrapped in paper, and both materials readily absorb water. When moisture creeps into drywall, it can lead to:- Structural weakening of the wall
- Mold growth
- Damage to the electrical components behind the wall
- Compromised insulation
- Expensive repairs
#4: Impact-Resistant
Work spaces - Tool storage
- Seasonal bin storage
- Sports gear
- Kids’ toys and bicycle storage
Why Garage Drywall Requirements Are Different From the Rest of the House
Garages are typically not heavily insulated or temperature-controlled, leading to large fluctuations in heat and cold throughout the year. This can cause standard drywall to expand and contract, leading to damage over time.
Vehicle fumes, or odors from lawnmowers and other yard tools, can also seep into the walls of your garage.Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Drywall
What Type of Drywall Is Best for Detached Garages?
- Intended use of the building
- Exposure to moisture and weather
- Local code requirements
What Type of Drywall Is Best for Garage Walls?
Garage walls require durable, impact-resistant, or fire-rated drywall depending on the garage’s location and connection to the home.
While fire-rated and moisture-resistant drywall is typically more expensive than standard drywall, the added protection and durability from the material make it a worthy investment for a garage.
The overall benefits of enhanced safety and reduced maintenance will ultimately outweigh the initial cost.What Type of Drywall Is Best for Garage Ceiling?
This factor will vary for every home, and will largely depend on the routine activities in the garage, as well as the environment.
Will it need fire-rated drywall? Is the structure insulated? Does the drywall need to be thicker to prevent sagging due to rooms on a second floor?
Ceilings face different structural and safety demands than walls, and you want to be sure to install the appropriate product.Do You Need Fire-Resistant Drywall in a Garage?
The short answer is yes.
Fire-rated drywall is the most common and may be the most important type of drywall for garages, as it can slow the spread of fire from the garage into adjacent living spaces.
Using fire-rated drywall on walls and ceilings that are adjacent to living areas is not only smart and safer, but is often required to comply with building code ordinances.How Building Codes Can Influence Garage Drywall Choices
Before you shop at your local home improvement store or hire a contractor, be sure to do research for your garage drywall project.
Drywall requirements may be strictly enforced by local building codes, and hiring a knowledgeable contractor like Benson Drywall is vital.
Common Garage Drywall Mistakes Homeowners Run Into
Some homeowners may attempt to drywall their garage without professional assistance and find out that it is not as easy as it may appear.
Common mistakes made on DIY projects include:- Incorrect thickness of drywall
- Incorrect type of product
- Inadequate fire protection
- Ignoring soundproofing
- Space between seams
- Not staggering boards
- Uneven taping
- Poor sanding or finishing
What a Professional Garage Drywall Evaluation Should Include
An estimate for your professional garage drywall installation should be comprehensive, leaving you feeling confident and having all your questions answered.
A thorough evaluation by Benson Drywall will include:- Discussion on the intended use of the space
- Wall and ceiling needs
- Fire-rated drywall needs
- Moisture and weather exposure of the structure
- Any future plans for the garage space
Professional Garage Drywall Services Backed by Benson Drywall’s Experience and Guarantee
Are you searching for a reliable and trustworthy drywall contractor in Portland with years of experience in the drywall industry? Utilizing expert craftsmanship and personalized services, Benson Drywall professionals offer a wide range of drywall services, including new construction garage installations or repairs.
With attention to detail and commitment, we strive to deliver high-quality results on every project, no matter the size or complexity. Our skilled and personable team is notable for not only efficiently meeting deadlines but also exceeding expectations, ensuring both commercial and residential projects are completed on time and within budget.
Benson Drywall rises above the competition by offering our one-year warranty on your project. You can rest assured knowing we use top-grade materials and proven techniques refined through years of experience. As we aim for excellence on each project, it is uncommon for our clients to need follow-up repairs, but we are always ready to return and fix any concerns that arise within a year.
Your satisfaction is our top priority.
Call Benson Drywall today to schedule an estimate for your garage drywall project!