Cement Board vs Sheetrock Which Is Right for Your Home

11 Aug Cement Board vs Sheetrock Which Is Right for Your Home

If you want the best results at home, use cement board in wet places. These places are bathrooms, showers, or laundry rooms. Sheetrock is better for dry rooms like living rooms or bedrooms. Each material deals with water, strength, and how you put it in, in different ways.

Look at this quick chart before you choose:

Think about what your room needs and what you want to do as you plan.

Key Takeaways

• Use cement board in wet places like bathrooms and laundry rooms. It keeps out water and mold better than sheetrock. Sheetrock is best for dry rooms like living rooms and bedrooms. It is easy to put up and looks smooth. Cement board is stronger and lasts longer. But it costs more and is harder to put in than sheetrock. Always seal and protect walls in wet places with waterproof layers. Make sure there is good airflow to stop damage. Pick the right material for your room’s moisture, money, and skill. This helps you get the best results for a long time.

Cement Board

What Is Cement Board

You may see cement board used in places where water is a problem. This building material has a strong cement mortar core. It also has a shell made of fiberglass or synthetic fibers. These fibers help the board stay strong and flexible. Manufacturers use a mix of materials to make cement board. Here is a table that shows what goes into it:

You can see that cement makes up most of the board. The other materials help with strength, flexibility, and water resistance. Manufacturers often use natural cellulose fibers from pulp paper. These fibers make the board stronger and less likely to crack. The process uses machines to press and dry the boards, making them dense and tough.

Cement Board Pros and Cons

When you choose cement board, you get some clear benefits:

• Water resistance keeps your walls safe in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

• High durability means the board lasts a long time, even in tough conditions.

• You can use it inside or outside your home.

• It comes in many sizes and shapes, so you can fit it to your project.

However, you should also know about the drawbacks:

• The cost is higher than regular drywall.

• Cement board feels heavy, so it is harder to carry and install.

• The surface is rough, which may need extra work to finish.

• You may need a professional to install it, especially for large jobs.

Tip: If you want a wall that stands up to water and lasts for years, cement board is a smart choice for wet spaces.

Sheetrock

What Is Sheetrock

You probably know sheetrock by its other name—drywall. Builders use it in almost every modern home. Sheetrock has a gypsum core. This core sits between two thick sheets of paper. The panels feel light and thin, so you can carry and cut them with basic tools. You attach sheetrock to wall studs with screws. After that, you tape and finish the joints to make a smooth wall.

Sheetrock replaced old plaster walls in most homes. Here is a table that shows how sheetrock compares to traditional plaster:

Sheetrock Pros and Cons

Sheetrock offers many benefits for your home. You can install it quickly and easily. The panels cost less than most other wall materials. You get a smooth surface that looks great with paint or wallpaper. Sheetrock also helps insulate your home and adds some fire resistance. Repairs are simple if you get a dent or hole.

However, sheetrock does have some drawbacks. It does not handle water well. If you use it in a bathroom or laundry room, it may swell or grow mold. Sheetrock can crack if your house shifts or if something hits the wall hard. It is not as strong as cement board or plaster.

Here is a quick look at the main pros and cons:

Tip: Use sheetrock in dry rooms like bedrooms, living rooms, or hallways. You will save money and get a clean, finished look. Avoid using it in places where water or steam is common.

Key Differences

Moisture Resistance

When you choose a wall material for wet spaces, moisture resistance matters most. Cement board stands out in this area. In laboratory tests, cement-based boards showed no mold growth even after weeks in high humidity. Gypsum boards, like sheetrock, allowed mold to grow. This means cement board keeps your walls safe from water damage and mold in places like showers or laundry rooms.

Building codes also recognize these differences. Cement board products, such as PermaBASE WP®, include waterproofing ingredients and meet standards for wet areas. Sheetrock brands like PURPLE XP® offer some moisture and mold resistance, but they work best in dry or only slightly humid rooms. For bathrooms or kitchens, you want the extra protection that cement board provides.

Durability

You want your walls to last, especially in busy parts of your home. Cement board has a tough core made from cement and fiberglass. This makes it highly resistant to dents, cracks, and wear. You can use it in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas, and it will hold up well over time.

Sheetrock, on the other hand, is easier to damage. It can dent or crack if you bump it with furniture or doors. Repairs are simple, but you may find yourself fixing it more often. Cement board lasts longer and resists both physical impact and moisture, making it a better choice for places that need extra strength.

Fire Resistance

Fire safety is important in every home. Cement board is non-combustible and can withstand very high temperatures. It does not burn or give off smoke, and it helps block heat and flames. Some cement boards have a one-hour fire rating, which means they can help slow the spread of fire and give you more time to get to safety.

Sheetrock also offers fire resistance, especially if you use Type X panels. These panels can provide a one-hour fire rating when installed correctly. Standard sheetrock has a lower fire rating but still helps slow the spread of flames. Both materials meet building codes for fire safety, but cement board gives you extra protection in high-risk areas like kitchens or basements.

Note: Always follow local building codes for fire-rated walls, especially in garages, kitchens, and basements.

Cost

Cost often plays a big role in your decision. Sheetrock costs less to buy and install. You can expect to pay between $12 and $20 per panel, with total installation costs ranging from $2.16 to $3.98 per square foot. Labor costs can go up if your room has high ceilings or lots of corners.

Cement board costs more upfront. The panels are heavier and harder to handle, so you may need to hire a professional. However, cement board lasts longer and needs fewer repairs. Over time, you may save money because you will not have to fix water or mold damage as often.

Installation

Installing cement board takes more time and skill. You need special screws, mesh tape, and thin-set mortar for the joints. Cutting cement board is harder because it is dense and heavy. You may need a jigsaw with a carbide blade for curved cuts. The process includes:

1. Start a quarter inch above the floor or tub.

2. Fasten with corrosion-resistant screws every 8 inches.

3. Fill joints with mortar and tape.

4. Let everything cure before adding tile or paint.

Sheetrock is easier for most DIY projects. You can cut it with a utility knife, screw it to the studs, and finish the joints with drywall mud and tape. The tools are basic, and the panels are lighter. You can finish a room quickly, even if you have never done it before.

Tip: Choose cement board if you need strength and water resistance, but pick sheetrock for fast, easy installation in dry rooms.

Where to Use Each

Bathrooms and Wet Areas

Cement board is best for bathrooms and showers. You should use it in any place that gets wet. Building rules say to use cement board behind tubs and showers. This is very important if you want to put tile on the wall. Paper-faced drywall and green board do not stop water well enough. If you use regular drywall, water can get in. This can cause mold and cost a lot to fix. Cement board does not let water in and is strong for tile or panels. For more safety, put a waterproof layer over the cement board.

Tip: Always seal and insulate walls behind showers and tubs. This helps stop hidden water problems.

Kitchens and Laundry Rooms

Kitchens and laundry rooms get some moisture. You can use green board or purple board here. These types of drywall resist water better than regular drywall. But they are not fully waterproof. Near sinks, dishwashers, or washing machines, cement board is better. This is true if you want to put tile on the wall. Mold-resistant drywall also helps keep your walls safe. To protect your walls, follow these tips: Use green board or cement board. Put a vapor barrier behind the wall. Seal all seams with waterproof tape. Make sure the room has good airflow. Use waterproof paint on the walls. Fix leaks fast if you find them.

• Use green board or cement board for these rooms.

• Put a vapor barrier behind the wall.

• Seal all seams with waterproof tape.

• Make sure the room has good airflow.

• Use waterproof paint on the walls.

• Fix leaks fast if you find them.

Living Spaces

For living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways, use regular sheetrock. These rooms stay dry, so you do not need special drywall. Sheetrock is cheap, easy to put up, and looks smooth when finished. It also helps block sound and saves energy. Repairs are easy and you do not need to do much work to keep it nice. Only use cement board in living spaces if you have a spot that gets wet or needs tile, like around a fireplace.

• Sheetrock is best for dry rooms.

• Use cement board only if you expect water or want tile.

Basements and Exteriors

Basements and outside walls get more water and temperature changes. Cement board works well here because it does not swell or break down. Most basements do not need extra waterproofing unless they are very wet. For outside walls, weather is important. Ask a building expert before using cement board outside. Weather and water can change how it works. Basements often have leaks, mold, or cracks. Good drainage, waterproofing, and checking often help keep your walls safe.

Note: Never use regular sheetrock on outside walls or in wet basements. It cannot handle water and may cause mold or damage.

Making the Right Choice

Factors to Consider

When you choose between cement board and sheetrock, you need to look at several important factors. Each project is different, so think about your room, your budget, and your skills. Here is a table to help you compare the main decision points:

You should also think about these points:

• Safety: Check for old paint or asbestos before you start. Get help if you find them.

• Durability: Pick a material that lasts in your space.

• Installation: Some materials need more skill or special tools.

• Budget: Balance the upfront cost with how long the wall will last.

• Environmental impact: Choose safe, eco-friendly products when you can.

Tip: Always have a professional inspect for hazards like asbestos or lead paint before you begin any renovation.

Tips for Homeowners

You can make your project easier and safer by following some expert tips:

1. Plan your layout to use full sheets and land edges on studs. Add extra support if needed.

2. Cut cement board by scoring and snapping. Use a carbide blade for tricky cuts. Always wear a mask to avoid dust.

3. Leave a small gap between sheets and walls for expansion. Never force boards together.

4. Stagger joints so four corners never meet. This makes your wall stronger.

5. Use the right screws for cement board and space them every 8 inches.

6. Tape joints with fiberglass mesh tape and cover with thinset mortar. Let it dry before tiling.

7. For drywall, nail or screw sheets to the frame, then tape and mud the joints. Use water-resistant drywall in damp areas.

8. Avoid common mistakes like measuring wrong, using the wrong fasteners, or skipping joint treatment.

9. Seal all cut edges and use a vapor barrier in wet areas to stop moisture problems.

Note: Rushing the job or skipping steps can lead to costly repairs later. Take your time and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

You now know the best uses for each wall material. Use sheetrock in dry rooms like bedrooms and living rooms. Choose water-resistant options for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. Always match the material to your space for the best results. If you feel unsure, talk to a building expert. Have questions or tips? Share them in the comments below!

FAQ

Can you use cement board instead of sheetrock everywhere?

You can use cement board in any room, but it costs more and feels harder to finish. You do not need its water resistance in dry spaces. Sheetrock works better for most living areas.

Is green board the same as cement board?

Green board is a type of drywall with some moisture resistance. Cement board resists water much better. You should use green board in damp rooms, but pick cement board for places with direct water contact.

Do you need to waterproof cement board before tiling?

You should always add a waterproof membrane over cement board in showers or wet areas. Cement board resists water, but it can still let moisture pass through. This extra step keeps your walls safe.

Which is easier for DIY projects: sheetrock or cement board?

Sheetrock is lighter and easier to cut. You can install it with basic tools. Cement board feels heavier and needs special screws and tools. Most DIYers find sheetrock simpler for home projects.

Can you paint cement board?

You can paint cement board, but you need to use a primer first. The surface feels rough, so paint may not look smooth. For best results, use paint made for masonry or cement surfaces.