Drywall is one of the best wall finishes, mainly due to its being fairly inexpensive, fire-resistant, easy to repair and install, low maintenance, and many other benefits. But the problem is that it is fragile and does not resist moisture, and it becomes a major breeding ground for mould and bacteria.
So, there are other options that give a varied look to your space that you may want to explore. This blog talks about 12 different alternatives to drywall that can enhance your space and are durable, too.
11 Alternatives to Drywall
Here are 11 options you can choose from for your home and garages -
Plywood
Plywood is mostly suited for garages, utility rooms, and shops, and is the perfect option for unfinished walls. It is easy to install, but it requires finishing. All you need to do is screw the boards to the studs. The reason why most homeowners love using plywood is that they don't have to use anchors to hang things, making decoration easy.
Plaster and Lath
Plaster used to be the standard for every home before drywall was even on the picture. They are mostly used in traditional and luxurious homes. No wonder there are several advantages of using drywall, but the charm and quality plaster offers surpass all the advantages of drywall. But installing plaster and lath is quite difficult, so it is advised to call a professional when using plaster as an alternative.
Cement Board
Cement boards are perfect for high-moisture areas, such as bathrooms, basements, laundry rooms, etc. They may not save you money, but their application is quite practical for a water-resistant substrate for tile and other below-grade applications.
Shiplap
Shiplaps are best for adding visual interest and are mainly used for accent walls. They are easy to install and look great either with drywall or on their own. They are often considered for farmhouse interiors because they can transform any ordinary space into a beautiful one.
Textured Wall Panelling
3D wall panelling is the ultimate game changer, which is made from PVC, gypsum, metal, wood, or MDF, to bring depth and dimension to any space. The panelling is available in varying textures and several geometric shapes, which can make a statement and enhance the look of the room. The only downside is that it is costly and may require additional maintenance to keep it looking nice and fresh.
Cork Wall
Though the corkboard is not strong enough, it is an eco-friendly option and adds a pop of personality to the room. Corkboard is also fire and water-resistant, and is best to spruce up your home office wall or use it as the backdrop for your children’s art. Also, with its plywood backing, it can be installed on drywall or any other materials easily.
Stone Veneer
Stone veneer is a budget-friendly, lighter, and convenient alternative to real stone walls. The stone veneer is made from synthetic materials, such as foam, which looks like real stone but is less costly. But the problem with stone veneer is that it is not as durable as stone, but it is low-maintenance and is available in various colours and styles. Thus, giving your room a rustic look and vibe.
| Some Tips | If you plan to install them in moisture-prone areas, consider using sealant so that your stone veneer looks as good as new. |
Veneer Plastic
If you are looking for better options than drywall, consider veneer plastic. It is firmer and smoother than drywall and is mostly applied to a plaster-ready gypsum board. It can also be applied to old walls without even tearing off the wall. All you need to do is just apply the veneer on top with a bonding agent. However, to apply veneer plastic, you may need someone with good trowel skills, and the material can be more costly than drywall.
Pegboard
Though you may not think of adding a pegboard as your first choice, it can be a great alternative to drywall. This is because they are extra convenient to use, and they also offer additional storage space. Hence, most homeowners use pegboards in their garage to hang their tools. These are easy to install, as all you need to do is fasten the pegboard to the studs, and it is ready to use. But, again, it does not give an appealing vibe to other parts of the home, so its use is mainly limited to garages.
Fibreglass Reinforced Panels
Fibreglass reinforced panels, as the name suggests, are made of strong polyester resin reinforced with fibreglass. These are thin, plastic panels that are durable and scratch-resistant. Also, they are easy to clean and are not prone to mould growth and do not harbour bacteria or any other harmful agents.
Metal Panel
Metal panels are mostly made from flat sheets of aluminium and steel, and are best for garages. They are available in different profiles, which include ribbed, flat, and corrugated, and various finishes, such as galvanised, painted, and coated. They are durable and strong, in addition to being moisture-resistant. Plus, they can be easily installed, are aesthetically pleasing, and are extremely low-maintenance, which only requires water and soap for cleaning.
