Cement board and gypsum board are two basic choices for building walls and ceilings in a house. Both building materials have their own advantages and disadvantages and are integral components in countless construction projects, but they are suitable for different scenarios. Cement backer board is ideal for wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens because it is waterproof and strong. Gypsum board is lightweight and easy to apply, which is perfect for standard indoor spaces such as living rooms and bedrooms where moisture is not a concern. In the world of construction and interior design, choosing the right building material can have a significant impact on the overall value and life of a building project, whether you are a homeowner planning a renovation, are considering materials for a new project, or just want to understand the best material for your specific needs. Read on to learn more about the differences between cement board and gypsum board.
What is sheetrock?
Gypsum board is a panel made of calcium sulfate dihydrate (gypsum), with or without additives, typically extruded between thick facing and backing papers, and used to construct interior walls and ceilings. Plaster is mixed with fibers (usually paper, glass wool, or a combination of these materials); plasticizers, foaming agents; and additives to reduce mold, flammability, and water absorption. "Sheetrock" refers to a specific brand of gypsum board produced by USG Corporation, but it has become a generic term for all types of gypsum board. Gypsum board is favored in modern construction because it is faster and easier to install than traditional stucco and has a smooth surface that is easy to paint or other finishes.
What is the use of gypsum board?
Gypsum board is commonly used in interior construction because of its versatility. Common uses for gypsum board include:
- Interior walls in living rooms, bedrooms and hallways
- Ceilings in residential and commercial spaces
- Partition walls are used to divide spaces within a building
- Conceal structural elements such as beams and support columns
- Firewalls are used in areas that require extra protection
Special types of drywall, such as moisture-resistant and fire-resistant drywall, are used in areas that require extra durability, such as bathrooms, basements, or kitchens.
Advantages of gypsum board
Gypsum board has become a popular choice in the construction industry because it offers several benefits that make it easy to work with, such as:
1.Easy installation
One of the biggest advantages of drywall is that it installs quickly. Simply screw it to the wall frame, apply some joint compound (also known as drywall mud) to cover the seams, sand it smooth, and you're ready to paint. Drywall is much faster to install than traditional plastering methods, which require multiple layers of application and a long drying time.
2.Good soundproofing
It provides effective soundproofing, making it ideal for offices, hotel rooms, and similar spaces.
3.Affordable and beautiful
Gypsum board is affordable compared to other wall materials. It is readily available, so you can easily buy it at a good price. Gypsum board is a good choice for those who don't want to spend a lot of money on building or renovating their homes. Its smooth surface is perfect for painting or wallpapering, making it a versatile choice for interior design.
4.Customizable
Gypsum board is versatile. You can paint it any color, add textures, or wallpaper it to suit your style. If you need more specific features, such as soundproofing or moisture resistance, you can customize different types of gypsum board for specific uses.
Disadvantages of Drywall
1.Easy to be affected by moisture and not waterproof
Gypsum board is sensitive to moisture, and prolonged exposure to water will cause it to swell and deteriorate. This makes it unsuitable for areas with high humidity or direct exposure to water, and ordinary gypsum board has poor waterproof performance. Once it is exposed to moisture, it will swell, crack, and even breed mold. Therefore, you must be extra careful when installing gypsum board. For places such as bathrooms or basements, moisture-proof gypsum board is required, but the price will be higher.
2.Low fire resistance requires drywall mud
Although gypsum board has natural fire resistance, its fire rating is not as good as cement board. After installing the gypsum board, the edges cannot be left as they are. You need to apply joint compound to cover the seams and screws. If not handled properly, the surface will look uneven, and sanding mud will produce a lot of dust and mess.
What is cement board?
Cement board is a combination of cement and reinforcing fibers that come in sheets of varying thicknesses and are commonly used as tile backer. Cement board can be fastened with nails or screws to wood or steel studs to form the base for vertical tiles, or it can be fastened horizontally to plywood for tile floors, countertops, and splashbacks. Cement board is used on the exterior of buildings as a base for exterior plaster (stucco) systems, or it can be used directly as a finishing system. It is primarily used as a base for tile in moisture-prone areas, and while it is not completely waterproof, it resists moisture well and will not deteriorate or mold, unlike drywall or wood products. Cement backer board is typically available in 3-foot by 5-foot sheets and provides increased impact resistance and strength compared to waterproof gypsum board. Cement board is also available in thin sheets with polymer-modified cement that can be bent to create curved surfaces.
What is cement board used for?
Cement board is commonly used in both interior and exterior construction projects. Its primary function is to provide a strong, moisture-resistant surface, especially suitable for tile laying and other construction needs.
Common interior uses include:
- Tile bases in bathrooms, showers and kitchens
- Floor underlayment
- Fireplace surrounds
- Shower and steam room walls
- Kitchen backsplashes
- Partition walls
Cement backerboard is also suitable for outdoor projects because it is strong and durable and can withstand all kinds of weather. Common outdoor uses include:
- Exterior wall sheathing
- Soffits and fascia
- Substrates for stucco or stone veneers
- Outdoor kitchens and fire pits
- Roofing substrates
- Outdoor posts or mailboxes
Advantages of cement backing board
Cement board has excellent durability and can withstand huge loads without the risk of sagging or warping, maintaining its structural integrity even in harsh environments. This property ensures that it can provide a stable surface for the installation of tiles and stones, preventing them from cracking and damage over time. Further advantages are divided into the following points:
1.Waterproof and Fireproof
Cement backboard is waterproof, making it ideal for wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. Unlike gypsum or wood boards, cement backboard will not crack when exposed to water and helps prevent mold and mildew. Cement board is more resistant to heat and has better fire resistance than gypsum.
2.Durability
Designed to withstand harsh conditions and provide a longer lifespan, cement backboard is extremely durable and built to last, not easily damaged, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas or outdoor projects.
3.Heat Resistance
Cement backboard is also heat resistant, making it ideal for use near fireplaces or furnaces, where high temperatures may be present. It will not deform or damage due to high temperatures, making it a reliable choice for such applications.
4.Termite-proof
Unlike wood, cement backboard does not present the risk of termite damage. Therefore, for areas where termites may be a problem, cement backboard is a smart choice to help protect your home or building.
Disadvantages of cement backing board
1.Heavy and difficult to install
Cement board is heavier and more difficult to handle than drywall, requiring more effort to install, and is difficult to cut, requiring special tools such as a scoring knife or saw with a diamond blade. Carrying and installing cement backer board, especially on large projects, can be difficult, especially for DIY enthusiasts.
2.Higher Cost
Cement backer board generally costs more than other materials such as drywall or plywood. While cement backer board is a good value for money in wet areas, the higher price may be prohibitive for some people. Due to the heavy weight and difficult installation of cement backer board, installation labor costs may also be higher.
3.Weight
Cement backer board is much heavier than other materials such as drywall or plywood. This makes it more difficult to transport and install, especially for walls and ceilings. Because cement backer board is heavier, more support may be required during installation, increasing the overall labor and time.
Comparison between cement board and gypsum board
1.Durability and moisture resistance
Standard gypsum board is more susceptible to damage in wet conditions and has poor moisture resistance. In contrast, cement board is more moisture resistant and less likely to harbor mold.
2.Strength and impact resistance
Cement board has higher strength and impact resistance than gypsum board. Gypsum board is more susceptible to cracking and denting due to strong impacts.
3.Fire resistance
Both gypsum board and cement board have good fire resistance. However, the non-combustible core of gypsum board gives it a competitive advantage. Gypsum has natural fire resistance and can withstand flame impact for up to four hours after being made into gypsum board.
4.Easy to handle and install
Gypsum board is lightweight, has low shipping costs, and is easier to handle and install. Cement board is larger in size and more difficult to handle and install, especially in larger spaces. Gypsum board can be easily cut with a utility knife. However, when cutting cement board, you need a circular saw with a heavy-duty blade. When installing gypsum board, you can consider using drywall screws with tapered heads. When installing cement board, you need to use roofing nail heads or galvanized deck screws.
5.Versatility
Gypsum board is versatile and can be cut into a variety of sizes and shapes for a wide range of uses. To create a personalized look, gypsum board can also be painted, textured, or otherwise treated. In contrast, cement board has much limited design freedom. Unlike gypsum board, cement board is more difficult to shape, paint, or polish. Therefore, using gypsum board in DIY projects is becoming an increasingly popular choice. In actual applications, cement board is usually installed by professionals on site.
6.Weight and Thickness
Cement backer board is heavier and thicker than gypsum board. Its thickness is usually between ¼ inch and ½ inch, which increases its strength but also increases its weight. Gypsum board, on the other hand, is lighter and has a thickness between ½ inch and ⅝ inch. Because gypsum board is lighter and easier to handle and install, it is often used in large projects or where weight requirements are high.
7.Cost
Cement backer board is more expensive than gypsum board. A standard 1/2-inch sheet of cement board costs about $10, while a standard 1/2-inch sheet of drywall costs about $8. Water-resistant drywall, such as greenboard or purpleboard, costs between $12 and $17 per sheet. Overall, drywall is more affordable, which makes it more cost-effective for larger projects, while cement backer board is usually only used in areas that require extra durability and moisture resistance.
Comparison between cement board and gypsum board
| Criteria | Cement Board | Drywall (Gypsum Board) |
| Appearance | Rough, not suitable for painting or fine finishing | Smooth, easy to paint and finish |
| Options & Customization | Limited customization; mainly used as tile backing | Multiple types available (standard, moisture-resistant, fire-rated) |
| Durability | Highly durable, impact-resistant | Less durable, prone to moisture and impact damage |
| Moisture Resistance | Waterproof and mold-resistant | Moisture-resistant but not waterproof (special types available) |
| Ease of Installation | Difficult to install, requires special tools | Easy to install, DIY-friendly |
| Weight & Thickness | Heavier and thicker (typically 3'x5' sheets) | Lighter and larger sheets (typically 4'x8') |
| Ease of Repair | Hard to repair, often requires replacement | Easy to repair with patching tools |
| Price | $10 per 3'x5' sheet (approx. $0.67/sq ft) | $8 per 4'x8' sheet (approx. $0.25/sq ft) |
Cement Board vs. Drywall: Which Material Is Best for Your Project
When should you use drywall?
Gypsum board is best suited for dry interior environments. It is ideal for residential, office, and hotel spaces where moisture levels are minimal. Additionally, gypsum board is often chosen for its aesthetics and ease of application, especially in spaces that require quick installation.
Application areas:
- Indoor Spaces: Homes, offices, hotels, hospitals and similar indoor spaces.
- Dry Areas: Rooms not exposed to high humidity, such as living rooms, bedrooms and offices.
When should cement board be used?
Cement board is ideal for environments where moisture, heat, and temperature fluctuations are a concern. It is often used in areas where greater durability is required, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and exterior surfaces. Additionally, cement board is a better choice for areas where fire safety is a priority.
Application areas:
- Wet areas: bathrooms, kitchens, shower areas and around pools.
- External surfaces: balconies, facades and outdoor walls.
- Fire safe areas: commercial buildings, high-rise buildings and industrial spaces where fire protection is critical.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cement Backerboard vs Gypsum Board
Yes, if moisture accumulates over time, mold can grow on cement board, although cement board is more mold-resistant than drywall due to its inorganic composition. To prevent mold, waterproof membranes and proper installation methods help keep cement board mold-resistant.
While you can apply waterproof paint or membrane to drywall, it is not suitable for use as a shower. Cement backer board is the preferred choice for shower areas because it is designed to withstand constant moisture.
Cement board can be installed directly on the studs of a wall, especially for shower surrounds or tile surfaces, because it provides a solid, moisture-resistant foundation.
Cement board is a solid sheet material. It is made of cement slurry mixed with fiberglass mesh. This material is very hard, so it is often used to make hard floors and cabinets. It is also very dense and durable due to its real cement composition. Cement boards are usually sold in 3 x 5-foot sheets. This size may be ideal for small projects such as bathtubs and shower enclosures.
They are highly resistant to direct moisture. Cement boards are often used in bathrooms, especially for tiling in shower areas. It is also commonly used for countertops, floors, and walls. However, cement boards are more expensive and more laborious to install.
Next is drywall material. It is also called wallboard. It is made of pressed gypsum paste. It is then dried and papered. It is a modern alternative to traditional lath and plaster. It is suitable for building interior walls.
Gypsum board is usually available in 4-foot x 8-foot sheets. However, some building material suppliers also offer different sizes. In addition, gypsum board is ideal for larger spaces such as walls. It can be a popular choice for DIY projects due to its smooth cutting and installation process. In addition, it is affordable. At the same time, ordinary gypsum board is not very resistant to moisture. However, special types of gypsum board are designed for this purpose. This feature makes it ideal for use in showers and bathtubs.
Conclusion:
If you are planning to invest in the right building materials, then you will definitely consider gypsum board or cement board. However, you may be confused about which material to choose. When choosing between gypsum board and cement board, it is crucial to consider the specific requirements, environmental conditions, and the intended use of the material. Cement board is superior to gypsum board in strength, durability, and moisture resistance, and gypsum board is more practical, affordable, and easy to install. In the long run, you can choose the board that best suits your construction or renovation needs by evaluating the project requirements and consulting with construction professionals.
The choice between gypsum board and cement board depends on the specific requirements of your project. For indoor spaces, especially dry areas, gypsum board is an affordable and beautiful choice. However, for areas with humidity, high temperatures, or fire hazards, cement board is a more suitable choice. Ultimately, both materials have significant advantages in different environments. Choosing the right material is essential to ensure the success and durability of your project.
