Written by

Tamatha Hazen

June 4, 2025

Edited by

Jennifer Carlson

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

Purple drywall vs. green drywall

Purple drywall ("purple board") and green drywall ("green board") both provide enhanced protection against moisture compared to standard drywall, making them ideal for areas prone to humidity or occasional dampness. In this guide, we'll compare purple drywall vs. green drywall and explore their features, best uses, and comparisons to other drywall types.

What is green board?

Green board, or green drywall, is a moisture-resistant drywall identified by its green paper facing, treated with wax and chemicals to repel humidity and occasional splashes. Its gypsum core resembles standard drywall but has a thicker, moisture-repellent paper layer.

Cost

Green board costs $12 to $20 per sheet, making it an affordable option for moderate moisture areas. Green drywall is more affordable but offers less comprehensive protection than purple drywall.

Key features

The primary features of green drywall include:

• Handles humidity and occasional splashes

• Reduces mold risk in humid spaces

• Less expensive than purple

• Installs using standard drywall techniques

• Green facing ensures proper orientation and easy identification

Limitations

While green board offers better moisture resistance than standard drywall, it is not waterproof and can degrade with prolonged water exposure. The organic paper fibers may still foster mold if saturated and offer less protection than purple drywall or cement board in areas with high moisture or direct water contact.

Best uses

Green board works well for bathroom walls outside showers, kitchens near sinks, laundry rooms, basements, and garages. These are places where humidity or occasional splashes occur but not places with standing water.

What is purple drywall?

Purple drywall, or purple board, is a high-performance, mold-resistant drywall with a treated gypsum core and moisture-resistant purple paper facing. Designed to handle direct water contact and inhibit mold growth, it surpasses green board in moisture protection and durability.

Cost

Purple board costs slightly more at $12 to $22 per sheet, with some specialty versions (e.g., fire-resistant or impact-resistant) priced higher. This higher cost reflects more durability and protection than green board.

Key features

The key features of purple drywall include:

• Superior mold and mildew resistance due to specialized core treatments

• Handles direct water exposure and high humidity

• Fire-resistant properties (including Type X options for fire-rated walls)

• Scratch- and dent-resistant variants for high-traffic areas

• Engineered sound-dampening layers for noise reduction

• Certified for improved indoor air quality (GREENGUARD Gold standards)

Limitations

Despite its advanced mold resistance and durability, purple board is only slightly more expensive than green board. However, it may require reinforced framing due to its heavier weight. It is not fully waterproof and should not be used in shower enclosures; cement board remains the best choice for fully wet areas.

Best uses

Purple drywall is ideal for higher-moisture environments like bathrooms near showers, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms. It’s also fire-rated and useful for high-traffic areas.

Green board vs. purple board: Which is best?

When choosing between green board and purple board, the decision depends on your budget and the area's specific needs for moisture, mold resistance, and durability.

Moisture & mold resistance

Purple board is the better option for moisture and mold resistance. Its moisture-resistant core combined with mold-inhibiting additives make it ideal for high-humidity areas such as bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms. While green board can handle light moisture, it lacks the advanced protection necessary for frequent or prolonged dampness.

Durability

In terms of durability, purple board again has the edge. It often includes enhanced features like dent resistance and maintains structural integrity better in damp conditions. Green board, by contrast, is more of a standard drywall with moderate durability, suitable for areas with low traffic and minimal moisture exposure.

Budget

When it comes to budget, green board can be slightly less expensive than purple board, making it a practical choice for areas with only occasional moisture where advanced protection isn’t critical.

However, the price difference between the two is often minimal, and for high-humidity or moisture-prone spaces, the superior performance and longevity of purple board justifies its additional cost.

FAQs about purple drywall vs green

Is all drywall the same?

Not all drywall is the same. Drywall comes in various types designed for different applications, environments, and performance needs, which affect overall drywall installation costs. The most common types include:

• Regular: Basic drywall, no special resistance

• Green board: Moisture-resistant, best for light damp areas

• Purple board: Superior moisture and mold resistance, often fire-rated

• Blue board: For plaster, moisture-resistant

• Paperless: Fiberglass-faced, mold-resistant

• Type X: Fire-resistant

• Soundproof: Noise-reducing

What is the best drywall for my house?

The best drywall for your home depends on the room. Standard drywall suits most areas, while moisture-resistant types like purple board are best for bathrooms and basements. Fire-rated drywall is best near heat sources. Choose the drywall that matches the room’s moisture and safety needs to ensure durability and comfort throughout your home.

Can I drywall a ceiling?

Yes, you can drywall a ceiling, but installation is more labor-intensive than walls, often requiring specialized tools like a lift. Drywall ceiling installation costs range from $2 to $4 per square foot depending on drywall type, ceiling height, and complexity.

Is sheetrock the same as drywall?

Sheetrock is a brand of drywall, while drywall is the general term for gypsum board used in walls and ceilings. Sheetrock and drywall prices are often similar, but Sheetrock is higher quality and more durable. For a more detailed comparison, check out this helpful guide: Sheetrock vs. Drywall.

Getting estimates from drywall installers

When planning your drywall project, follow these suggestions to get accurate estimates from qualified drywall installers near you:

• Read reviews of drywall installers on HomeGuide and Google.

• Get in-person estimates from at least three drywall contractors.

• Clarify whether you want standard, moisture-resistant, fire-rated, or soundproof drywall.

• Request itemized estimates that break down costs for drywall sheets, mudding, taping, sanding, labor, and any additional materials or finishes.

• Confirm the installer will handle permits, waste removal, and site cleanup, as these can add to the overall cost.

• Ask about the project schedule and payment milestones to avoid misunderstandings during the job.

Questions to ask a drywall installer

Before hiring a drywall installer ask these important questions:

• How much experience do you have with drywall installation?

• Can you provide proof of licensing and insurance?

• Will you be using your own crew or subcontractors?

• Can you share references or photos of past projects?

• What is the estimated timeline for completing the job?

• Do you offer warranties or satisfaction guarantees?

• Can you provide a detailed written estimate including materials and labor?

• What materials and drywall types do you recommend for my project?

• How do you handle cleanup and disposal after the job?