Written by

Tara Farmer

April 13, 2025

Edited by

Tamatha Hazen

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

Sheetrock vs. drywall

Are you planning a home renovation project and feeling confused about Sheetrock vs. drywall? You're not alone! This is one of the most common sources of confusion for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts alike. The short answer might surprise you: Sheetrock and drywall are essentially the same thing.

However, there's more to the story that every homeowner should understand before starting their next project. Read on for a detailed comparison of these building materials, their differences, costs, and which option might be best for your specific needs.

What is drywall?

Drywall is a construction material consisting of a gypsum core sandwiched between two layers of heavy paper. It's commonly used for creating interior walls and ceilings in both residential and commercial buildings. This versatile building material has largely replaced traditional lath and plaster methods since the mid-20th century due to its time- and labor-saving benefits.

• Drywall is available in various thicknesses, typically 1/2" or 5/8", with thinner 1/4" and 3/8" panels used for repairs or creating curved walls.

• Standard drywall sheets come in sizes of 4' x 8', 4' x 10', and 4' x 12', making them adaptable to different construction needs.

• Drywall goes by many names in the construction industry: wallboard, gypsum board, plasterboard, and sheet rock.

What is Sheetrock?

Sheetrock is simply a brand name of drywall manufactured by the United States Gypsum Company (USG). The name has become so popular that many people use it generically to refer to any drywall, regardless of the manufacturer. Think of it like the relationship between Kleenex and facial tissues, or Xerox and photocopiers.

USG has been producing Sheetrock since 1917, making it one of the oldest and most recognized brands in the industry. Their long history has contributed to the name becoming synonymous with the product itself.

Sheetrock vs. Drywall: Price & other differences

The key distinction is simple: all Sheetrock is drywall, but not all drywall is Sheetrock. For the average homeowner, the difference is negligible. Both terms refer to the same type of building material used for the same purpose in construction and renovation projects.

USG's Sheetrock brand may offer specific features or quality standards that differentiate it from other drywall manufacturers. However, the basic composition and function remain the same across all drywall products.

Price

Sheetrock panels cost $0.50 to $0.80 per square foot, while lesser-known brands of similar quality drywall sheets cost slightly less, averaging $0.45 to $0.70 per square foot. The price difference for brand-name products like Sheetrock, often ranges 10% to 25% higher than generic alternatives. Whether this premium is worth it depends on your specific needs and quality expectations.

Installation

The average labor cost to install Sheetrock and other drywall is $1.00 to $2.70 per square foot. Professional installers generally don't alter their techniques based on the brand of drywall being used. The quality of installation typically has a greater impact on the final result than the brand of materials.

Quality

Sheetrock has earned a reputation for consistent quality due to USG's strict manufacturing standards. However, well-made generic drywall can perform just as effectively. The key is avoiding poorly manufactured products that may be brittle or contain harmful chemicals.

In the late 2000s, some imported drywall products caused serious issues with toxic off-gassing that led to health problems and corroded pipes and electrical systems. This highlights the importance of choosing quality materials regardless of brand name.

Types of drywall

Understanding the different types of drywall can help you choose the right product for your specific project:

Sheetrock vs. other popular drywall brands

While USG's Sheetrock brand is known for its consistently high quality and wide range of specialized options, several manufacturers offer drywall products that compete with the Sheetrock brand. The table below offers a comparison of some popular options:

Pros and cons: Sheetrock vs. drywall

When deciding between Sheetrock and generic drywall options, consider these advantages and disadvantages:

For most basic residential applications, generic drywall performs identically to brand-name products. The difference becomes more significant in specialized applications or commercial projects.

Choosing between Sheetrock and other drywall

Your choice between Sheetrock and other drywall brands should depend on several factors:

• Project requirements: For standard walls in dry areas, generic drywall is usually sufficient. For specialized applications like high-moisture areas or fire barriers, brand-name products with specific features may be worth the investment.

• Budget considerations: If you're working with a tight budget, the savings from choosing generic drywall can be significant, especially for larger projects. The money saved could be allocated to higher-quality paint or other finishing touches.

• Professional recommendations: If you're working with a contractor, ask for their recommendation. Many professionals have preferences based on their experience with different products and may be able to secure better pricing on certain brands.

• Long-term plans: If you're renovating a forever home, investing in premium products might make sense. For rental properties or areas that might be remodeled again soon, more economical options could be the better choice.

Getting estimates from drywall contractors

When searching for a local Sheetrock or drywall installer near you

• Compare at least three in-person estimates from different contractors.

• Review their online reputation on websites like HomeGuide and Google.

• Prioritize contractors affiliated with the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry.

• Request and verify references, and examine their portfolio of previous drywall projects.

• Choose well-established professionals with proper licensing, insurance, and bonding.

• Have a written estimate, contract, and warranty in hand before any work begins.

• Be cautious of unusually low quotes as they may indicate quality compromises.

• Structure payments in stages rather than paying the full amount up front.

Questions to ask a drywall or sheetrock contractor

Ask these important questions to ensure you hire the best contractor for the job:

• Can you verify your licensing, bonding, and insurance status?

• Which drywall type would you recommend for my specific needs and why?

• What is your crew size and typical working schedule?

• Will your direct employees handle the work, or will you use subcontractors?

• Does your quote cover all materials and all phases of the job—hanging, taping, mudding, finishing, and texturing?

• Are cleanup costs included in your estimate?

• Which permits are required, and who will be responsible for obtaining them?

• What additional expenses should I anticipate?

• What is your projected timeline for completion?

• How do you address any damages that might occur during the project?