What is Plywood?
Plywood is an engineered wood product created by bonding together thin layers of wood veneer. Each layer of the wood grains is aligned in different, giving plywood the strength needed. Like any other sheet material, it’s available in various thicknesses, such as 1/4-inch, 1/2-inch and so on.
Plywood is very rigid and has a high load-bearing capacity. It’s strong enough to hold screws and nails, making it ideal for supporting heavy objects. However, prolonged exposure to heat or moisture may cause it to peel or come apart.
To learn more about plywood, read our Plywood Buying Guide.
What is Drywall?
Drywall, also known as gypsum board, is made up of a gypsum core encased between two layers of paper. It’s available in a range of thicknesses, including the most common thicknesses of 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch, with 1/2 inch being the standard for most residential interior walls and ceilings.
The most common drywall texture is a smooth, seamless surface that’s ideal for interior walls and ceilings. Drywall is naturally fire-resistant, easy to cut and flexible so it can be used in a variety of architectural features like niches, alcoves, curved walls and other design features.
Our guide is filled with more in-depth information about drywall to help you learn more about it.
Plywood vs Drywall: Key Considerations
When deciding on which wall type you want for your space, there are many characteristics you need to consider.
Strength
In terms of strength, plywood is preferred over drywall. Its multiple thin layers of veneer help it hold a considerable amount of weight. However, it’s more difficult to repair than drywall.
Drywall is prone to cracking and crumbling under a heavy load. Both plywood and drywall are susceptible to damage when exposed to moisture.
Uses
Plywood is often used for floors, cabinets, bookcases, roofs, walls and panel systems. Its structure and material are suitable for these areas.
Drywall can be used for bathrooms, basements, ceiling, garages and kitchens. Its moisture and mold resistant properties are suitable for these areas.
Stiffness
Layers of veneer offer tensile strength as well as make plywood rigid and stiff. Plywood requires power tools to cut it.
Drywall is made with lightweight materials, making it easier to bend into shapes and cut with a utility knife.
Durability
Plywood is durable; however, its durability depends on several factors, one of which is the type of wood species used during its manufacturing. Hardwoods (like ash, birch and maple) offer more durability than softwoods (like pine, spruce and cedar). Having said that, hardwood plywood is durable primarily because of the stacked layers of veneers. These layers make it resistant to dents and scratches.
Drywood is softer and is prone to bending. It’s also easily scratched and broken when pressure is applied to it. Drywall wasn’t designed to be load-bearing or to withstand major structural forces.
Fire Resistance
Plywood boards are not fire-resistant. They shouldn’t be used or placed near open flames as they can easily burn.
Drywall is fire-resistant. It contains water molecules that turns to steam when exposed to heat. This helps slow down the spread of fire. Some types of drywall are specifically designed for use in fire-resistant areas.
Use/Location
Due to its strength and thermal insulation, plywood is best suited for roofs and floors.
Drywall is best suited for wall because it offers good sound reduction.
Thermal Insulation
While plywood alone isn’t the best primary thermal insulation, when used with other materials, it can be a useful component of a more comprehensive insulation plan.
Drywall also contributes to thermal insulation when used in conjunction with other materials, however, its insulation properties are relatively low. Plywood does a much better job of thermal insulation.
Sound Insulation
Plywood is a good base layer but is less soundproof unless it’s combined with something else like insulation.
Drywall works better at sound insulation in multi-layer drywall systems.
Drywall vs Plywood: A Head-to-Head Comparison
When compared side-by-side on various important factors, here is how plywood and drywall stack up against one another.
Which Should You Use?
Choose plywood if:
- you need a material that’s strong
- you need a material to support for heavy objects
- you need a material that can provide insulation in extreme climates
Choose drywall if:
- you want a material that’s cost-effective
- you need a material that’s good for soundproofing
- you want a material with an ease of finishing
- you need a material that’s fire-resistant
You can also combine plywood and drywood to leverage the combined strength of both. For instance, use plywood for weight-bearing walls and drywall in areas where ease of finishing and aesthetics are important factors.
Raising the Walls with Lowe's
Whether you’re finishing the interior of your home on a new build or adding a room on a do-it-yourself (DIY) renovation project, choosing the right material for your walls is a major step in the process. Do you go with plywood for its superior strength and durability, or do you choose drywall for its cost-effectiveness, fire-resistance, ease of installation and smooth, easy to paint surface? The choice depends on your needs.
When you’re ready to kick off your project, Lowe’s has the tools to help you stay on track. Shop online at Lowes.com or stop by your local Lowe’s and a friendly Red Vest associate will help you find everything you need.