How to Pick the Best Mold Resistant Drywall

25 Apr How to Pick the Best Mold Resistant Drywall

Mold-resistant drywall​ is a specialized material designed to protect your home. It effectively prevents mold and mildew from developing on walls. This type of drywall is crafted to resist water, which helps stop mold growth. Installing mold-resistant drywall​ in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or basements can deliver optimal results.

Why does this matter? Mold can damage walls and negatively impact your health. Mold-resistant drywall​ outperforms regular drywall due to its durable construction. It undergoes rigorous testing, such as ASTM D3273 standards, to ensure it combats mold effectively. By choosing mold-resistant drywall​, you can enjoy stronger walls, reduced mold issues, and a healthier living environment.

Key Takeaways

• Mold-resistant drywall stops mold from growing. It keeps your home safe and healthy. Use it in wet places like bathrooms and kitchens.

• Pick drywall with good moisture resistance. A score of 10 on the ASTM D3273 test means it protects well against mold.

• Check what it’s made of. Fiberglass and paperless drywall handle moisture better than regular drywall. They work great in damp areas.

• Strong drywall is important. Mold-resistant drywall lasts longer in wet spaces. This saves you money on fixing problems later.

• Eco-friendly choices like MGO board are available. They fight mold and are better for the planet. These are smart picks for your home.

Key Features to Look for in Mold Resistant Drywall

Moisture Resistance

When picking mold-resistant drywall, check for moisture resistance. A strong moisture barrier stops water from soaking into the drywall. This is key to preventing mold. Mold-resistant drywall is tested to ensure it works well in wet spaces.

For example, tests like ASTM D3273 are used. In this test, drywall is placed in a humid room with mold spores. After 28 days, it’s rated from 0 to 10. A score of 10 means no mold grew. These tests prove the drywall can handle damp places like bathrooms or basements.

If your project is in a wet area, pick drywall with high test scores. It will help keep your walls dry and free of mold.

Material Composition

The materials in mold-resistant drywall affect how well it works. Regular drywall uses paper, but mold-resistant types often use fiberglass or other materials. These materials don’t soak up water, making them better for wet areas.

For example, USG’s Sheetrock® Brand Mold Tough® Panels have special ingredients to stop mold. These panels resist mold and stay strong even with temperature or humidity changes. They hold their shape and strength over time, giving you confidence.

Here’s a simple comparison of regular drywall and mold-resistant drywall:

When choosing drywall, check the materials to ensure they fit your needs for mold resistance and strength.

Durability and Longevity

Durability is also important. Mold-resistant drywall lasts longer than regular drywall, especially in tough conditions. Its mold and moisture resistance helps it stay strong over time.

Studies show mold-resistant drywall lasts longer because it doesn’t break down in humid areas. This makes it a good choice for basements, kitchens, or laundry rooms. Picking a durable option saves money on repairs later.

If you want drywall that lasts, choose one with mold resistance and strength. It’s a smart choice for your home and budget.

Mold and Mildew Resistance Ratings

When picking mold-resistant drywall, check its resistance ratings. These ratings show how well it stops mold in wet areas. Higher ratings mean better protection for your walls.

Drywall is often tested using the ASTM D3273 method. In this test, drywall is placed in a humid room with mold spores for 28 days. After testing, it gets a score from 0 to 10. A score of 10 means no mold grew at all. Drywall with this score works great in bathrooms, basements, or laundry rooms.

For instance, Sheetrock® Brand Glass-Mat Panels Mold Tough® Firecode® X scored a perfect 10. This makes it a strong choice for damp spaces. Always choose drywall with high ratings to keep your walls safe from mold.

Fire Resistance (Optional Feature)

Fire resistance is another feature you might want to think about. Some mold-resistant drywall also works as fire-rated boards. These boards help slow down fires, adding safety to your home.

Fire-resistant drywall is tested under strict rules, like UL standards. For example, Sheetrock® Brand Mold Tough® Panels Firecode® X meets UL Type SCX standards. It also follows ASTM C1396 rules, offering both fire and mold protection.

Here’s a simple comparison of two fire-rated options:

If fire safety matters to you, pick these dual-purpose boards. They protect against mold and add fire safety to your home.

Types of Mold Resistant Drywall

Choosing the right mold-resistant drywall can feel tricky. Knowing the types available helps make it easier. Here are three popular options to consider.

Paperless Drywall

Paperless drywall works well in damp places. It uses fiberglass mats instead of paper, which helps stop mold. This makes it great for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Why choose paperless drywall?

• It stays strong even with temperature or humidity changes.

• Special ingredients stop mold, keeping indoor air healthier.

• It lasts up to 12 months in normal weather without damage.

This drywall is also tough and fire-resistant. It’s a smart pick for areas with moisture and mold problems.

Green Board

Green board is another good choice for damp spaces. Its green coating gives it extra water resistance. While not waterproof, it’s better than regular drywall.

Green board is often used in bathrooms or laundry rooms. But it’s not for places with direct water, like showers. Its water resistance helps prevent mold and keeps walls in good shape.

For slightly wet areas, green board is a budget-friendly and durable option.

Purple Board

Purple board offers top-notch mold resistance. It handles both moisture and mold well. Unlike green board, it works in places with direct water, like near sinks or tubs.

Purple board is also very strong and resists scratches. This makes it great for busy areas. If you want drywall that’s tough, mold-resistant, and looks nice, purple board is a great pick.

Cement Board

Cement board works well in places with lots of moisture. It’s made from cement and strong fibers, making it tough. This board resists water damage and lasts a long time. It’s often used in bathrooms, kitchens, and other wet spaces.

One great feature of cement board is its mold resistance. It goes through strict tests to check how it handles damp areas. For example, the ASTM D3273 test checks for mold growth. In this test, panels sit in a humid room with mold spores for 28 days. A perfect score of ten means no mold grew. Cement board usually scores high, proving it keeps walls mold-free.

Cement board is also very strong. It doesn’t bend or break when wet, so it lasts longer. If you’re working in a wet area, this board is a smart choice.

MGO Board (Magnesium Oxide Board)

MGO board is another great option for mold-resistant drywall. It naturally fights mold, mildew, and rot, making it healthier for homes. Unlike regular drywall, which can grow mold when wet, MGO board keeps air cleaner indoors.

Here’s why MGO board is a good pick:

• It helps reduce health problems like asthma and skin issues.

• It’s very strong and doesn’t fall apart in wet places.

• It’s eco-friendly and safer for the environment.

This board is ideal for damp areas like basements or laundry rooms. Its natural mold resistance keeps walls clean and safe. Plus, it’s a great choice if you want a green building material.

Factors to Think About When Picking Mold Resistant Drywall

Room Type and Use

Bathrooms and Kitchens

Bathrooms and kitchens often have a lot of moisture. These rooms get humid and sometimes have water splashes. This makes them likely to grow mold. Using mold-resistant drywall here helps keep the space healthy and safe.

Choose drywall with a special core that blocks moisture and mold. Purple drywall is a great pick for these rooms. It stops mold and handles water well. Its tough surface also resists dents and scratches, so it lasts longer.

Basements and Laundry Rooms

Basements and laundry rooms can be damp because of leaks or poor airflow. Mold-resistant drywall in these areas lowers health risks and repair costs.

Green board is an affordable choice for these spaces. It offers decent mold protection and works in damp places. But if your basement or laundry room stays very wet, pick cement board or MGO board for better results.

Mold Resistant Drywall Price

Planning your budget is important when buying mold-resistant drywall. It costs more than regular drywall but saves money by stopping mold and repairs later.

Mold-resistant drywall costs about $0.70 to $1.10 per square foot. A 4- by 8-foot panel costs $15 to $60, depending on the type. It’s 40-50% pricier than regular drywall, but its strength and mold protection make it worth it.

Installation Simplicity

How easy it is to install matters, especially for DIY jobs. Mold-resistant drywall is usually easy to put up. But heavier types, like cement board, need more tools and effort.

For easier installation, try paperless drywall or green board. They are light and simple to work with, perfect for quick projects. For bigger jobs, ask a pro to ensure proper setup and mold prevention.

Environmental Conditions and Climate

When picking mold-resistant drywall, think about your local weather. Humid areas have a higher chance of mold problems. If you live where it rains a lot or is very humid, choose drywall with strong moisture protection. For example, basements in these places often stay wet, which can cause mold. The right drywall helps stop this from happening.

Temperature changes also matter. In very hot or cold places, drywall can shrink or expand. This movement might damage the drywall over time. Pick types that can handle these changes without breaking or losing their mold protection. Cement board or fire-rated gypsum boards are great for these conditions because they are tough and dependable.

Tip: Not sure about your area’s weather issues? Ask a local contractor. They can help you pick the best drywall for your climate.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

If you care about the planet, choose eco-friendly drywall. Many mold-resistant options now use green materials. For example, MGO boards are made from natural resources and don’t release harmful chemicals. They are safer for your home and the environment.

Recycling is another thing to think about. Some drywall can be recycled, which cuts down on waste. Check with companies to see if their products meet green building rules. Picking sustainable drywall helps the planet and makes your home’s air cleaner. It’s good for both your family and the Earth.

Did you know? Using green drywall can raise your home’s value. Buyers like homes with eco-friendly features!

Top Picks for Mold Resistant Drywall

Best Overall: DensArmor Plus

DensArmor Plus is a great all-around drywall option. It uses fiberglass mats instead of paper, which stops mold and moisture. This makes it perfect for damp places like kitchens or basements.

What makes DensArmor Plus special is its strength. It doesn’t just block mold; it also handles wear and tear well. It stays strong in humid or changing temperatures. You can also paint it easily to match your home’s look.

If you need reliable drywall, DensArmor Plus is a top choice.

Best for Bathrooms: PURPLE Mold-Resistant Drywall

Bathrooms often stay wet, which can cause mold. PURPLE Mold-Resistant Drywall is made to handle this. It works well in humid spaces and stops mold from growing.

Why choose PURPLE drywall?

• It blocks moisture and mold, keeping walls clean.

• Its special paper and core make it strong in wet areas.

• It helps create a healthier home by reducing mold problems.

For bathrooms with steam, splashes, or humidity, PURPLE drywall is the best pick.

Best for Basements: Green Board

Basements can be damp, and Green Board is a budget-friendly fix. While not waterproof, its water-resistant layer makes it good for slightly wet areas.

Green Board is simple to install and works in laundry rooms or unfinished basements. It’s cheaper than other types, so it’s great if you’re saving money.

If you want an affordable way to protect basement walls, try Green Board.

Best Budget Option: USG Sheetrock Mold Tough

If you need mold-resistant drywall that’s affordable, try USG Sheetrock Mold Tough. It’s a great choice for saving money while still getting good quality. This drywall works well for homeowners or DIY projects on a budget.

USG Sheetrock Mold Tough stops both mold and moisture. This makes it perfect for basements, kitchens, or laundry rooms. Its core is specially made to block mold, so it stays strong in damp areas. It’s also lightweight, making it easy to carry and install. This saves you time and effort during your project.

What makes this drywall special is its mix of low cost and good quality. Even though it’s cheaper than high-end options, it still performs well. It meets ASTM D3273 standards, proving it can handle humid spaces. Whether you’re fixing up one room or doing a big project, this drywall protects your walls without costing too much.

If you want to keep your walls safe from mold without spending a lot, USG Sheetrock Mold Tough is a smart choice.

Best Eco-Friendly Option: MGO Board (Magnesium Oxide Board)

If you care about the environment, MGO board is a great pick. This eco-friendly drywall fights mold and is better for the planet. It’s made from natural materials like magnesium oxide and doesn’t have harmful chemicals like asbestos or formaldehyde.

Here’s why MGO board is eco-friendly and helpful for your home:

MGO board isn’t just eco-friendly—it’s also very useful. It naturally resists mold and water, making it great for wet places like basements or laundry rooms. It’s tough and lasts a long time, so you won’t need to replace it often.

By picking MGO board, you’re protecting your home and helping the planet. It’s a smart and green choice for your walls!

Picking the right mold-resistant drywall is very important. It stops mold, lowers repair costs, and keeps air clean. For bathrooms, basements, or kitchens, knowing drywall types helps you choose wisely.

Think about cost, strength, and your home’s conditions. Not sure what to pick? Ask an expert or store staff for advice. Is mold-resistant drywall a good idea? Yes, especially for wet areas!

FAQ

What is mold-resistant drywall, and why use it?

Mold-resistant drywall stops mold from growing on your walls. It works well in wet places like bathrooms or basements. Using it keeps your walls safe, lowers health risks, and avoids expensive repairs.

Can you install mold-resistant drywall yourself?

Yes, you can! Lighter types, like paperless drywall or green board, are easy to install. For heavier ones, like cement board, it’s better to hire a pro for proper setup.

Is mold-resistant drywall worth the cost?

Yes, it is! It costs more at first but saves money later. It prevents mold damage, makes your home stronger, and keeps the air cleaner.

Where should you use mold-resistant drywall?

Use it in wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens, basements, and laundry rooms. It’s great for places with lots of moisture or water splashes.

How do you care for mold-resistant drywall?

Keep the area dry and airy. Clean surfaces often to stop dirt that attracts mold. Fix any damage quickly to keep it working well.