Abuse-Resistant Drywall

Abuse-resistant drywall is tougher than other types of drywall. It has a high-strength reinforced gypsum core sandwiched between smooth but thick abrasion-resistant paper on the face and heavy liner paper on the back. These products are called by a variety of different names, including abuse-resistant, impact-resistant, and high-impact-resistant drywall. There are some advertisements that claim the panels are as tough as concrete. That’s overdoing it, but they are tougher than both regular and fire-resistant panels. Despite their toughness, abuse-resistant panels can be finished like other types of drywall.

Abuse-resistant drywall holds up well in areas where regular drywall may be easily damaged, such as in mudrooms, workshops, garages, and other high-traffic areas. It is also more resistant to cracking and warping. This extra strength means long-term savings on repairs and replacement costs. Abuse-resistant drywall is available in 1/2-in. panels and 5/8-in. fire-resistant panels. The 5/8-in. fire-resistant panels are ideal in garages, utility rooms, and commercial work areas, where a high fire rating is necessary.