Are drywall and Sheetrock the same thing?

Yes, Sheetrock is a brand of drywall made by USG Corporation. All Sheetrock is drywall, but not all drywall is Sheetrock — it’s like how all tissues aren’t Kleenex, but the terms are often used interchangeably.

What’s cheaper, Sheetrock or drywall?

Generic drywall is usually slightly cheaper than branded Sheetrock. However, the price difference is minimal and often depends on the type (e.g., fire-resistant, moisture-resistant) and where you buy it.

How do I know if I have drywall or Sheetrock?

Look for a manufacturer’s stamp or label on the back of the panel. If it says “Sheetrock” or “USG,” it’s branded drywall. Otherwise, it’s likely a generic or other brand.

Why is Sheetrock sometimes called drywall?

Because Sheetrock is such a well-known brand, many people use “Sheetrock” as a generic term for all drywall — similar to saying “Band-Aid” instead of adhesive bandage.

What did they use for walls instead of drywall?

Before drywall became common in the mid-20th century, builders used lath and plaster , which involved wooden strips (lath) covered with multiple layers of wet plaster. It was more labor-intensive and time-consuming than modern drywall.

What’s the Difference Between Drywall and Sheetrock?

July 15, 2025

When planning a construction or renovation project, many homeowners and contractors use the terms "drywall" and "Sheetrock" interchangeably. But are they really the same thing? Or is there a difference you should know about before making a decision?

In this post, we’ll clear up the confusion and help you understand what sets drywall and Sheetrock apart — and why it might matter for your next project in Connecticut.

What Are Drywall and Sheetrock?

What Is Drywall?

Drywall is a widely used construction material made from gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper. It’s a fast and cost-effective solution for creating smooth walls and ceilings in residential and commercial buildings.

Materials and Construction:

The core of drywall is made of gypsum, a naturally fire-resistant mineral. This core is sandwiched between layers of heavy-duty paper and then dried to form solid, easy-to-install panels.

Common Types of Drywall:

Drywall comes in several types depending on your needs:

Standard Drywall: Great for everyday wall applications.
Moisture-Resistant (Greenboard): Ideal for bathrooms or kitchens.
Fire-Resistant (Type X): Used in garages or multi-family dwellings.
Soundproof Drywall: Designed to reduce noise between rooms.

A person is applying plaster to a wall with a spatula.

A man is installing a drywall ceiling in a room.

What Is Sheetrock?

Sheetrock is a specific brand of drywall produced by USG Corporation. It has become so widely known that many people refer to all drywall as "Sheetrock" — much like saying "Kleenex" when they mean tissues.

Why the Confusion?

Because Sheetrock is essentially drywall, the two terms are often used interchangeably. But technically, Sheetrock is a trademarked name.

Is It Any Different?

While Sheetrock is still drywall, USG may include patented additives and proprietary features that enhance performance, such as mold resistance, smoother finishes, or easier installation.

Key Differences Between Drywall and Sheetrock

Brand vs. Generic

The most fundamental difference is branding. Drywall refers to the general product category, while Sheetrock is a brand name under that category. Think of it like comparing facial tissue (drywall) to Kleenex (Sheetrock).

Quality and Performance

Sheetrock products often include proprietary features and a reputation for consistent quality. Some contractors prefer it for its ease of use, cleaner cuts, and smoother finishes.

However, many generic drywall products are equally effective and meet the same building codes. It often comes down to personal preference, budget, and local availability.

Cost Comparison

In general, Sheetrock may be slightly more expensive than generic drywall due to its brand name and additional features. However, the price difference is typically minimal and depends on the specific product type and supplier.

When to Use Sheetrock vs. Drywall

Contractor Preference

Many contractors have a preferred brand based on experience, reliability, or availability. In some regions, Sheetrock may be more common, while in others, generic drywall may dominate.

Use Case Scenarios

For high-moisture areas: Consider greenboard or moisture-resistant drywall.
For soundproofing or fire resistance: Specialty drywall types (like Type X or sound-dampening panels) may be better suited.
For general applications: Either Sheetrock or standard drywall will work just fine — the choice often comes down to your contractor’s preference and your budget.

Final Thoughts

So, what’s the real difference between drywall and Sheetrock? In short: Sheetrock is drywall — just a specific brand of it. While Sheetrock may come with some added benefits and brand recognition, it’s not fundamentally different from other drywall options in how it's used.

For homeowners across Connecticut, what matters most is choosing the right type of drywall for your space, not just the brand name.

Need Help Choosing the Right Material?

At Landry Drywall, we’ve been serving Connecticut for over 35 years — and we’re here to help you pick the right materials for your residential or commercial project. Whether you’re remodeling your home or building from the ground up, we offer custom, in-person quotes and top-tier service from start to finish.

Contact us today for expert drywall installation and finishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are drywall and Sheetrock the same thing?

Yes, Sheetrock is a brand of drywall made by USG Corporation. All Sheetrock is drywall, but not all drywall is Sheetrock — it’s like how all tissues aren’t Kleenex, but the terms are often used interchangeably.
What’s cheaper, Sheetrock or drywall?

Generic drywall is usually slightly cheaper than branded Sheetrock. However, the price difference is minimal and often depends on the type (e.g., fire-resistant, moisture-resistant) and where you buy it.
How do I know if I have drywall or Sheetrock?

Look for a manufacturer’s stamp or label on the back of the panel. If it says “Sheetrock” or “USG,” it’s branded drywall. Otherwise, it’s likely a generic or other brand.
Why is Sheetrock sometimes called drywall?

Because Sheetrock is such a well-known brand, many people use “Sheetrock” as a generic term for all drywall — similar to saying “Band-Aid” instead of adhesive bandage.
What did they use for walls instead of drywall?

Before drywall became common in the mid-20th century, builders used lath and plaster, which involved wooden strips (lath) covered with multiple layers of wet plaster. It was more labor-intensive and time-consuming than modern drywall.

< Older Post