If you're remodeling a bathroom or fixing water damage, you’ve probably asked: Do I need special drywall in a bathroom? It’s a smart question. Regular drywall is cheaper, easy to find, and simple to install. But bathrooms are damp, especially near the shower walls or on the ceiling where steam rises. That’s where moisture-resistant sheetrock is a good choice for bathrooms. They're designed to resist mold and mildew growth in humid conditions or wet environments with high moisture levels. So, is it worth the upgrade from traditional drywall?
What Makes Moisture-Resistant Drywall Different?
It has a special coating that helps it resist the absorption of moisture. It doesn't make it waterproof, but it holds up better in moisture-rich environments than standard drywall. Around the shower or over the bathtub, this can help stop mold growth and soft spots from forming.
For walls not in direct contact with water, standard drywall types might be okay. But if the surface is likely to stay damp—like drywall for a bathroom ceiling or around a shower—moisture-resistant drywall is an excellent choice.
It also lasts longer in areas of high humidity levels and doesn't bubble or warp as quickly. That means fewer repairs and fewer chances for growth of mold behind your walls.
Where You Should—and Shouldn’t—Use It
Moisture-resistant drywall makes sense in certain areas, but not all of them. Some spots are too wet and need a different material, like cement board. Here’s a general rule: if water might splash or sit, upgrade.
Use it:
- On the ceiling of a full bathroom
- On bathroom walls near the toilet or vanity
- Just outside the shower area
Skip it in these spots:
- Inside a shower surround or tub enclosure (use cement board as tile backer instead)
- Areas exposed to direct water flow
Outside the bathroom, it can also help in high-moisture environments like laundry rooms or basements.
Is the Higher Price Worth It?
Moisture-resistant drywall costs more than standard drywall. Depending on your area, it might be $5 -$10 more per sheet. That extra money adds up, but in many cases, it’s worth the additional protection.
Replacing moldy drywall isn’t just a hassle; it can lead to more costly problems behind the walls. Moisture-resistant drywall lowers that risk.
Plus, if you’re hiring a contractor for drywall installation, the cost of materials is a small part of the total project. Spending a bit more up front can save time and money on costly repairs later.
FAQ
Can I paint over moisture-resistant drywall?
Yes. You can paint it like any other drywall. Just make sure to use a good primer first, and opt for a semi-gloss or satin finish; both work well in humid rooms.
Is green board the same as moisture-resistant drywall?
Green board is a type of moisture-resistant drywall. It’s coated to resist water, but it’s not waterproof. Some newer versions come in other colors or materials, but they all do a similar job: stand up better to moisture than regular drywall. The main moisture-resistant types of drywall are green drywall, purple drywall, and blue drywall.
All offer moisture resistance but in different levels:
- Green board - Good for high-humidity and high-moisture areas but not for prolonged contact with water.
- Purple board - Moisture and mold resistance. Durable and more robust than green board and has some soundproofing capabilities.
- Blue board - Resistance to moisture and meant for plaster finishes.
