Drywall Las Vegas (also known as wallboard, plasterboard, and gypsum board) is used in almost every home in the United States, as well as in offices and other commercial buildings.
Drywall is an affordable, durable building material that can be recycled when it’s no longer needed. This makes it a great choice for green construction projects.
Drywall is used in various projects, from residential construction to hospitals and schools. But few people know how it’s made or where it comes from. Gypsum, or calcined plaster or gypsum wallboard, is a soft, white or gray mineral of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4 * 2H2O). Although it’s smooth and non-combustible, it has some unusual structural properties. Gypsum is similar to Mother Nature’s glue, and it bonds well with water.
The drywall we see in homes, offices and buildings is actually a mixture of gypsum and paper. The gypsum is sandwiched between two heavy sheets of paper. The gypsum and paper are combined with other materials to produce different types of drywall. For example, a special type of drywall has added mold and mildew resistant papers, making it suitable for humid environments like bathrooms. Another kind of drywall is reinforced with fiberglass, which provides extra insulation for attics and other spaces with variable temperatures.
There are a number of advantages to using drywall, including its fire resistance and easy repairability. But most importantly, drywall is a cost-efficient alternative to plaster. Moreover, it can be customized to meet the needs of specific rooms or designs. For instance, some varieties are designed to be fire retardant while others are injected with additives for other purposes. For example, a type of drywall that is impregnated with damping polymers can increase its sound transmission class rating.
In addition to being a natural building material, gypsum is a recyclable product. Up to 20% of the gypsum in new drywall can be recycled from construction sites or waste from the manufacturing process. This recycling reduces the need to mine additional gypsum, which reduces environmental impacts from mining, energy use and transportation.
In the US, a majority of drywall is manufactured in Colorado. Near the Gypsum exit on Interstate 70, a giant Zamboni-like machine scrapes nearly pure gypsum from the ground, then trucked to a football-field-sized plant. The gypsum is powdered, baked and mixed with water in a gizmo that looks like a giant cake mixer. The mixture is then sandwiched between two sheets of paper, and chopped into the shapes you’d find at Home Depot or Lowe’s.
It’s fire-resistant
Drywall is a popular building material that has become a staple on construction sites across the country. In addition to its obvious aesthetic benefits, it also provides resistance to abrasion and impact, reduces transmission of sound, and allows for easy installation. It’s also naturally fire resistant, and there are specialized types of drywall that provide even more protection against flames.
Fire-resistant drywall is an important safety measure that helps protect homes from the devastating effects of fire, which can cause thousands of deaths and billions in property damage every year. It’s a necessary requirement in many construction projects, including residential homes and multi-family apartment buildings, and is designed to prevent the spread of fire for up to two hours.
The fire-resistant properties of drywall are attributed to its core, which is made of a gypsum and water mixture. The gypsum is inherently non-combustible, but when exposed to extreme heat, the water in the gypsum core evaporates, leaving a protective barrier against flames and heat. This process is called calcination, and it’s what gives standard drywall its fire-resistant properties.
Fire-rated drywall is also manufactured with additives that defend it against radical molds, mildew, and other contaminants. These additives make it easier to clean and maintain, which can save homeowners money in the long run. These added benefits are one reason why a growing number of families are opting for fire-resistant drywall.
Although a gypsum-based material, drywall is not impenetrable. It can be compromised by certain chemicals, such as sulfur dioxide, which can release when a wall is exposed to excessive heat. These fumes can be extremely toxic to humans, causing respiratory issues and other health problems. It’s also worth noting that a home’s fire-rated walls can only delay the spread of a fire for a short amount of time, depending on how it’s installed.
When choosing a fire-rated drywall, be sure to select a third-party certified product. Unlike other building materials, such as metal and wood, which are assigned a specific rating, gypsum board is tested by independent testing laboratories to receive a certification of its performance under different fire-rating scenarios.
It’s easy to install
Drywall is one of the most simple construction materials to install. It’s also inexpensive and provides a sturdy foundation for walls and ceilings. It can even be used to create decorative elements and design features, like arches.
If you’re looking for a way to speed up your home remodel, consider using drywall. It’s quick to install, and it can save you months of time. In addition, it’s easy to repair if you make a mistake or damage it.
When installing drywall, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Start by measuring the square footage of your wall or ceiling. Then, divide that number by 32 to determine how many sheets of drywall you’ll need. You can cut the drywall to size before you begin, or you can do it as you work. A drywall saw is an essential tool for the job, but you can also use a keyhole saw or circle cutter to cut spaces for electrical outlets and switches.
After a sheet of drywall is installed, a layer of joint compound or “mud” must be applied to the seams and joints. The installer must apply a thick enough coat to conceal the screw holes and defects, but not so thick that it sags or becomes lumpy. Once the mud has dried, it can be sanded smooth.
It’s important to use a good quality mud, and to use the right application techniques. If you’re a pro, you can get the job done quickly by working with a team. They’ll want to complete the project and get paid on time, just as you do. If you’re working alone, you can still finish your home faster by setting milestones for yourself.
Drywall isn’t the greenest material in the world, and its manufacturing process produces a lot of dust. It also isn’t the best insulator, but it’s an affordable and durable alternative to plaster walls. When paired with insulation, it can help lower your energy costs. But if you’re concerned about the environment, there are eco-friendly options that don’t produce as much dust and don’t require as much manufacturing.
It’s affordable
Drywall is one of the most affordable construction materials available. It is also versatile, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of projects. The savvy homeowner can bring costs down by planning ahead and budgeting carefully. It is also smart to purchase supplies from a drywall supplier instead of a big box store. Drywall suppliers know their products and will often offer discounts for bulk purchases. They can also help you estimate the amount of drywall you will need for your project.
The cost of drywall depends on the type and thickness. Regular drywall, which consists of gypsum board sandwiched between two paper layers, is the least expensive. However, you may want to consider other types of drywall if you need them for specific purposes. For example, moisture-resistant drywall has a core and coating that prevents moisture absorption and can help reduce mold and mildew. This drywall is ideal for areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms and basements.
Some drywall contractors charge by the square foot, while others will quote you an overall price for the entire job. Before you get a quote, make sure to measure the total area of each room and subtract any doors, windows or picture frames. Then, use a drywall calculator to find out how many sheets of drywall you will need. The calculator will also tell you how much waste to expect from the calculations.
Another important factor in the cost of drywall is the level of finishing that you choose. The most basic finish is level 0, which simply involves hanging the drywall and covering the seams with tape. Level 1 adds a layer of joint compound and a skim coat. This prepares the wall for tiling and painting. Level 2 includes the addition of a second layer of joint compound and light sanding. This is a good option if you plan to have a light texture or even gloss paint.
In addition to determining the price of drywall, you should also factor in the cost of labor and other supplies. The cost of labor varies, but you can expect to pay about $50 per hour. Other expenses include paint, primer, sandpaper, and electrical caulking. In most cases, it is best to hire a professional contractor for the drywall installation and finishing process.
