Learn more about where greenboard drywall should be used. Contrary to what some people may think, greenboard drywall is not used in
shower stalls.
What is Greenboard Drywall?
Greenboard drywall is the same as regular
drywall except for two things: 1.) greenboard drywall has a water-resistent paper covering, and 2.) the paper covering for greenboard drywall is, as the name implies, green. The gypsum material sandwiched between two paper coverings is the same. Also, whereas regular drywall comes in 1/4" and 1/2" sizes, greenboard drywall comes in 1/2" and 5/8" sizes. Greenboard drywall goes by various brand names, such as American Gypsum's Aquabloc.
Greenboard Drywall Cannot Be Used for Wet Applications
This is a common misunderstanding. While greenboard drywall's paper covering is water-resistent, it is not waterproof. Not only that, but the brittle gypsum core is not suitable for wet applications. A cement-based product like Wonderboard or Hardibacker is suitable for tile-covered wet applications like showers and tub surrounds.
Greenboard Drywall is Used for Damp Applications
Greenboard drywall is used in bathrooms, basements, and other areas where the drywall may be subjected to damp conditions, humidity, and the occasional minor splashes of water. Using greenboard drywall in a wet location is a recipe for disaster. At the very least, severe
mold growth will occur, if not outright failure of the product.
Greenboard Drywall is Not Fire Resistent
Even though greenboard drywall is the same thickness (5/8"), it should not be confused with the fire-resistent product named Type X. Type X should be used in areas such as kitchens where fire might be expected.
