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.