Determining which side should face out is a crucial decision in the installation of drywall. Although it might not seem like much, this little detail has a big impact on the durability and quality of your wall or ceiling. Selecting the right side is crucial to getting a uniform, smooth finish and making sure your walls last.
There are two distinct sides to drywall sheets: a smooth side and a rougher side. Every one has a distinct function, and doing the drywall installation the incorrect way around can cause issues later on. The side you select matters more than you might think, from potential structural problems to challenges with painting and finishing.
This article aims to simplify the fundamentals of drywall orientation, elucidate its significance, and walk you through the process of identifying which side should face out. Whether you’re a do-it-yourself enthusiast or simply interested in best practices, knowing this drywall installation aspect will help you produce an outcome that looks professional.
- Differences in different types of drywall
- Difference between the front and back sides of the sheet
- Video on the topic
- How to properly fasten drywall with screws
- Features of fastening drywall. Bit with a limiter
- How to fasten drywall to a wall
- Fastening drywall alone. 2 ways to install gypsum board yourself.
- How to screw screws into drywall CORRECTLY? Installation of drywall.
- How to properly seal the seam of gypsum board, gypsum fiber board (it will not crack anymore)
Differences in different types of drywall
There are currently various product categories with unique features. The necessary choice is chosen in accordance with the particular circumstances:
- Standard plasterboard. These are simple products of white and gray color. They are laid in rooms with constant humidity and temperature. The resulting coating provides additional sound and heat insulation. The material has different thicknesses, which are selected depending on the place of fastening. It is taken into account that the product does not tolerate loads and strong mechanical impacts.
- Moisture-resistant. This material differs from the previous one by special additives that not only provide protection from moisture, but also prevent the appearance of mold and mildew. The products are green and are intended for installation in rooms with inconstant or high humidity. Also suitable for cladding internal slopes.
- Fire-resistant gypsum board. The sheets have a pink tint, which distinguishes them from other varieties. The material contains reinforcing fiber, which increases resistance to flame. Due to this, the coatings do not deteriorate for a long time, which makes it possible to leave the premises in case of fire.
- Combined. Waterproof and fire-resistant variety. GKLV is recommended to be installed in difficult areas and used to create boxes for combined communications.
Products for walls and ceilings are also differentiated. The primary distinction between them is size: components on horizontal surfaces typically have thinner edges and thicker sections. There may not be a factory bevel (chamfer) on the edges of the slabs for vertical bases, which guarantees a more convenient application and superior putty compound adhesion during leveling.
It is essential to consider each option’s features in order to get a great outcome.
Difference between the front and back sides of the sheet
There are differences between the surfaces of gypsum boards, despite what some people may think.
The following characteristics of the plasterboard’s front side are present:
- No marking with the main parameters of the material. It is located on the back side, which eliminates the possibility of text showing through during subsequent finishing with decorative putty or wallpaper. It is taken into account that for each variety it is customary to use a font of a certain shade.
- Cardboard color. The front part of the products is lighter, the back has a more saturated tone. Side edges are the same color as the main coating.
- Edge bevel. The visible part of the chamfer removed in the factory is located on the outer surface. It can be of different shapes, but it immediately shows the location of the sides. Such products are usually mounted on the ceiling, but they are also suitable for some sections of the walls.
Ascertaining the precision of the part’s location is essential before repairing the gypsum board. Because the differences are so obvious, there is little possibility of making a mistake, making this task easy.
Note: To ensure proper attachment, it is preferable to mark small pieces or remnants on the back side.
Side to attach drywall | Details |
Front (finished) side | This side should face outward, as it provides a smooth surface for painting or finishing. |
Back (unfinished) side | This side goes against the wall frame, providing support and stability. |
The durability and aesthetics of your walls can be greatly affected by the side of the drywall that you choose to attach. Making the best decision for your project can be aided by knowing the function of each side—the rough back and the smooth front.
The drywall’s smooth side is intended to face outward. This side offers a level surface that makes applying paint or wallpaper easier. For most home improvement projects, attaching the smooth side outward ensures a neat, polished appearance, making it the preferred option.
Conversely, the rough side needs to be fastened to the wall studs at all times. Better joint compound and other material adhesion is provided by this side, increasing installation security. It also helps avoid problems like warping or cracking over time when the rough side is positioned correctly against the studs.
In conclusion, for the best outcomes, always remember to face the smooth side outward. Whether you’re a professional or a do-it-yourself enthusiast, paying attention to these details will help you achieve a flawless wall finish.
Knowing which side of the drywall is facing out is essential for a smooth, long-lasting finish when attaching it. It is intended for painting or wallpapering, so the gray or white side should always face outward; the brown, rougher side is meant to remain hidden against the studs. You’ll save time and headaches in the long run by adhering to this straightforward rule, which guarantees your walls look professional and last longer.