1. Home & Garden

Discuss in my forum

Drywall

By , About.com Guide

DrywallPhoto Copyright Lee Wallender, licensed to About.com
Definition: Large, flat sheets of pressed gypsum that compose the inner walls of most residential buildings. Sheets come in 4'x8' and 4'x10' sizes and 3/8" or 1/2" thick. The long sides of the boards are curved inward to accept application of drywall joint compound, or "mud." In the past, sheets were nailed to studs but today are affixed by means of drywall screws.

Drywall is one of the most fundamental building materials used in houses today.

Photo shows drywall sheets in a typical installation sandwiched on both sides of a door frame.
Also Known As:
  • Wallboard
  • Gypsum board
  • Plasterboard
Examples:
Jim installed sheets of drywall in his house to create a home theater.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.