Drywall Costs and Considerations

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Drywall is a fundamental material for constructing walls and ceilings, offering durability, insulation, and fire resistance. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the costs, types, and factors affecting drywall pricing.


Average Costs of Drywall

  • Cost Per Sheet: $12–$90
  • Most common: $15 for a 4’x8’ sheet (~$0.40–$0.65/sq. ft.).
  • Larger panels (4’x12’): $15–$24 each (~$0.31–$0.50/sq. ft.).
  • Installation Costs:
  • Labor: $50–$100/hour (may account for 50% of the total cost).
  • DIY: $0.30–$0.50/sq. ft., excluding tools and materials.

Costs by Drywall Type

Different drywall types are suited for various applications and can affect overall costs:

  • Standard/Whiteboard Drywall
  • Cost: $12–$20 per panel.
  • Use: General interior spaces without special requirements.

  • Purple Drywall

  • Cost: $15–$20 per panel.
  • Use: High moisture resistance; ideal for bathrooms and basements.

  • Green Board Drywall

  • Cost: Slightly more than standard drywall.
  • Use: Moderate moisture resistance for kitchens and laundry rooms.

  • Blue Board Drywall

  • Cost: $12–$15 per panel.
  • Use: Provides a smooth finish for plaster and moderate moisture resistance.

  • Soundproof Drywall

  • Cost: $40–$90 per panel.
  • Use: Reduces noise transmission; ideal for home theaters or shared walls.

Cost by Region (Examples)

| Location | Cost per Panel |
|--------------------|-------------------------|
| Oregon | $13.90–$19.60 |
| California | $11.85–$19.80 |
| Ohio | $7.85–$12.10 |
| Colorado | $13.20–$17.50 |
| Michigan | $8.40–$17.50 |


Budget Estimates for Projects

  • $500: Covers up to 800 sq. ft. (approx. 25 sheets).
  • $1,000: Covers up to 2,100 sq. ft. (approx. 67 sheets).
  • $2,000: Covers up to 4,000 sq. ft. (approx. 125 sheets).

Factors Influencing Cost

  • Material Type
  • Specialized options like soundproof or moisture-resistant drywall cost more.

  • Size and Thickness

  • Thicker or larger panels increase costs.

  • Labor and Installation

  • Professional installation adds $50–$100/hour.

  • Project Complexity

  • High ceilings, curved walls, or multi-layer installations may cost more.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

  • DIY:
  • Save on labor costs but must account for equipment rental/purchase.
  • Precision and heavy lifting required; mistakes may lead to higher costs.
  • Professional:
  • Expertise ensures proper installation.
  • Saves time and reduces waste.

FAQs

  • What’s the Difference Between Drywall and Sheetrock?
  • Drywall: Generic term.
  • Sheetrock: A brand name for a specific drywall product.

  • How Do I Calculate How Much Drywall I Need?

  • Measure the square footage of walls and ceiling.
  • Divide total sq. ft. by the sq. ft. of one panel (e.g., 32 sq. ft. for 4’x8’).
  • Add 10% for waste.

  • Can I Install Drywall Myself?

  • Yes, but it requires precision, tools, and physical effort.
  • Consider professional help for larger projects or high ceilings.

Investing in the right drywall type and professional installation can save time, reduce maintenance, and enhance the functionality of your space.


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