1/2 inch or 5/8 inch drywall?

1/2 inch for most walls. 5/8 inch for ceilings (resists sag), fire-rated assemblies, and soundproofing. Code may dictate specific requirements.

How many sheets do I need?

Measure total wall and ceiling area in square feet, divide by 32 (for 4x8 sheets), and add 10% for waste and cuts.

Can I hang drywall over existing walls?

Yes, but it adds thickness affecting door jambs and trim. Ensure framing can support the additional weight, especially on ceilings.

Regular DrywallGenerating image…

Drywall & Plaster

Standard

$10-$15 per 4x8 sheet

Regular Drywall: Standard Gypsum Board (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Materials Team

|Last updated May 15, 2026|Sources & methodology

Regular drywall, also called gypsum board or sheetrock, is the standard interior wall and ceiling finish material for residential construction. It consists of a gypsum core sandwiched between paper facers. The standard 1/2-inch thickness covers most wall applications, while 5/8-inch is used for ceilings and fire-rated assemblies.

Key Features

1/2 and 5/8 inch thickness; 4x8 and 4x12 ft sheets; Lightweight and standard weight options; Tapered edges for smooth finishing; Fire-resistant gypsum core

Specifications

Standard: 1/2 in x 4x8 ft = ~57 lbs. 5/8 in x 4x8 ft = ~70 lbs. Also 4x10 and 4x12 ft sheets. Fire rating: 1/2 in provides ~30 min

5/8 in provides ~45 min.

Applications

Interior walls; Ceilings; Room partitions; Garage walls; Basement finishing

Installation Overview

Hang sheets horizontally on walls and perpendicular to joists on ceilings. Screw with drywall screws every 12-16 inches. Stagger joints between rows. Tape joints with paper or mesh tape and apply joint compound in three coats, sanding between coats.

Pros & Cons

Pros

✓ Affordable; Easy to install; Smooth finish; Fire-resistant core; Paintable and textureable

Cons

✗ Heavy sheets; Generates dust when sanding; Not moisture resistant; Dents and holes easily; Difficult overhead ceiling installation

Top Brands

USG

National Gypsum

CertainTeed

Georgia-Pacific

Code Requirements

Must meet ASTM C1396. Minimum 1/2 in for walls, 5/8 in for ceilings with 24-in joist spacing. Garage-to-house walls require 1/2 in minimum per IRC R302.6.

Buying Tips

Use 4x12 sheets where possible to reduce joints. Lightweight drywall is 25% lighter and easier to handle overhead. Have sheets delivered to avoid transport damage.