Drywall wallboard is offered by several manufacturers, under many brand names.
One brand name stands out: Sheetrock.
Noted for its high quality, Sheetrock is the oldest brand ofdrywall.
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There are more similarities than differences between Sheetrock and othertypes of drywall.
Drywall is wallboard for home interiors that is attached to ceilings and walls.
Drywall panels have a fire-resistant (but not fireproof) core made of gypsum and additives.
The two long sides (8-, 10, or 12-foot) are edge-wrapped with paper.
The two short sides (usually 4 feet) are not wrapped.
What Is Sheetrock?
Gypsum is a mineral that is mined from the earth.
Recaptured gypsum is the same as mined gypsum in terms of drywall production.
Widths
The most commonwidth of drywallis 48 inches.
While not usually found in stock, it’s possible to order 54-inch-wide drywall, as well.
Lengths
Drywall lengths are designed to span multiples of 16 inches.
Sixteen inches is the width between two wall studs.
Accordingly, drywall is most usually sold in 8-foot and 12-foot lengths.
Twelve-foot sheets of drywall usually aren’t cheaper than 8-foot sheets on a square-foot basis.
You may even pay slightly more.
The benefits of longer sheets are fewer seams for a faster installation and a more finished look.
When many sheets of drywall are needed, though, the cost difference is apparent.
But the distinction goes to a product called Sackett Board, patented in 1894.
The inventor Augustine Sackett soon partnered with USG, though.
USG sold Sackett Board under the name Adamant Panel Board.
A USG sales representative named D.L.
Hunter suggested a different, catchier name: Sheetrock.
Multiple layers were required to achieve a smooth finish.
Sheetrock moved all of that work to a factory.
By the time Sheetrock shipped out, it was already dry and ready to install.
Not only that but it was sturdy enough to install straight onto the wall studs, no lath required.
The name was coined in 1917 by D.L.
He suggested the name as an easier-to-remember alternative to Adamant Panel Board.
All Sheetrock is drywall.
Use 1/2-inch-thick drywall or Sheetrock on walls.
Air Pollution Control Technology Fact Sheet.
The Sackett Family Association.
The Origins Of USG Sheetrock Brand.
Birmingham Post-Herald, December 7, 1919
Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, July 2, 1939
Freeport Journal-Standard.
