Which Side of Drywall Faces Out: A Comprehensive Guide
Which Side of Drywall Faces Out?
The side of drywall that faces out is typically the smooth side.
Key Points:
- Usually, the side of drywall that faces out is the smooth side.
- The smooth side is commonly chosen to be visible on the finished surface.
- The rough side of drywall is usually not preferred for a visible surface.
- The smooth side of drywall provides a better foundation for painting or wallpaper.
- The smooth side of drywall eliminates the need for extra sanding or finishing.
- Choosing the smooth side of drywall ensures a more aesthetically pleasing result.
Did You Know?
1. Despite common belief, the smooth side of drywall is typically installed facing outwards, while the rough side is left inside walls. This helps create a more even and aesthetically pleasing surface for paint or wallpaper.
2. The rough side of drywall, also known as the “brown side,” serves as a key bonding surface for joint compound, allowing for seamless repairs and finishing work.
3. Drywall dates back over a century and was first introduced in 1917 as a more convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional plaster walls.
4. The use of drywall in residential construction gained popularity after World War II, as the need for rapid and affordable housing surged due to the baby boom.
5. Drywall is composed of a gypsum core sandwiched between layers of paper, which gives it a sturdy structure and fire-resistant properties.
Exterior Side Of Drywall
When installing drywall, it is crucial to understand which side should face outward. The exterior side of drywall, also known as the front face or finished side, is the side that will be visible once the wall is completed. It is the side that should be finished with paint, wallpaper, or any other decorative material. The exterior side is usually smoother and has a white or ivory color, making it more suitable for a finished wall.
On the other hand, the interior side of drywall, also referred to as the back face or rough side, is not intended to be visible once the wall is completed. It is rougher and may have markings or manufacturer labels. This side is typically left unfinished and is covered by insulation, studs, or other building materials.
Determining The Front Face Of Drywall
Identifying the front face of drywall is relatively easy. One way to determine the front side is by examining the surface texture. The exterior side is generally smoother compared to the rougher texture of the interior face. Additionally, the front side usually has a slightly tapered edge, while the back face has a squared edge.
Another method for determining the front face is by checking for visible indicators or markings on the drywall. Manufacturers often print their information, such as brand name or installation instructions, on the backside of the drywall sheets. If you see any markings, that side is the interior face.
It is essential to ensure that the front face of the drywall is facing outward as a mistake can lead to unsightly walls and difficulties in finishing or painting the surface.
Importance Of Installing Drywall Correctly
Installing drywall correctly is crucial for several reasons.
Firstly, it ensures an aesthetically pleasing finish to the wall. By placing the front face outward, you can create a smooth surface that is ready for painting or other finishing touches. Incorrectly installing drywall can result in visible seams, uneven surfaces, or difficulties in applying paint or wallpaper.
Secondly, installing drywall correctly contributes to the structural integrity of the wall. When the front face is facing outward, the drywall is better protected from moisture and other elements that could damage it. This helps maintain the durability and longevity of the wall. Additionally, installing drywall with the correct side facing outward ensures proper adhesion of adhesives, such as joint compound or tape, which strengthens the overall structure.
Interior Side Of Drywall
The interior side of drywall is the side that is not intended to be visible once the wall is completed. It may have a rougher texture and visible markings, but it is still an essential component of the wall system. The interior side is typically hidden from view by insulation, framing, and other wall materials.
Using drywall with the correct side facing inward allows for proper insulation installation and reduces the risk of moisture intrusion. By keeping the rough side inward, the insulation can be placed against the smoother front face, providing better thermal and sound insulation for the room.
- The interior side of drywall is not visible once the wall is completed.
- The rough side of the drywall should face inward.
- Proper insulation installation is facilitated by using drywall with the correct side inward.
- Placing insulation against the smooth front face of drywall improves thermal and sound insulation.
Tips For Identifying The Correct Side Of Drywall
- If you are unsure which side of the drywall is the front face, here are some tips to help you identify it:
- Check for surface texture differences – the front face is typically smoother.
- Look for tapered edges – the front face usually has a slight taper, while the back face is squared.
- Inspect for manufacturer markings or labels – if you see any printing, that side is the interior.
- Consult the manufacturer’s instructions – some manufacturers provide specific guidance on identifying the front face.
- Ask a professional – if you are still uncertain, it is always best to consult an expert who can provide guidance and ensure proper installation.
By following these tips, you can confidently install drywall with the correct side facing outward, resulting in a professional and visually appealing finish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What side goes out with drywall?
When it comes to mold resistant drywall, the side that faces out varies according to the color. Typically, green or purple drywall should be installed with the colored side facing outward to maximize its mold-resistant properties. However, if you have yellow drywall, the yellow side should be placed at the back, while gray drywall should be oriented with the gray side facing outwards. It’s important to consider the specific color and follow the guidelines accordingly when installing mold resistant drywall to ensure its effectiveness.
Is drywall one sided?
Yes, drywall is typically one-sided. The brown side of drywall, also known as the backside or rough side, does not have the same finish as the front side. The paper side of drywall is typically used for a smoother finish, as it helps to protect the gypsum core and ensures that screws do not compromise the paper surface. Therefore, it is generally recommended to use the paper side of drywall for a better overall appearance and performance.
1) What are the potential consequences of installing drywall with the wrong side facing out?
Installing drywall with the wrong side facing out can have several potential consequences. Firstly, the wrong side of drywall is usually rougher and less smooth than the correct side. This can lead to a poorer aesthetic finish as the surface will be uneven and may require additional sanding or finishing to achieve the desired appearance. Secondly, the wrong side of drywall may not have the same moisture resistance properties as the correct side. This can result in the drywall being more susceptible to moisture damage, such as warping or mold growth, especially in areas with high humidity or moisture exposure like bathrooms or kitchens. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that the smooth side of the drywall is facing outward during installation to achieve a better finish and maintain the drywall’s moisture resistance properties.
2) Are there any visual or structural differences between the two sides of drywall that can help determine which side should face out?
In most cases, there are no visual or structural differences between the two sides of drywall. Both sides typically have a paper covering that is smooth and uniform. However, there is usually a slight difference in texture between the two sides. One side may feel slightly smoother while the other may have a slightly rougher texture.
The general rule of thumb is to install drywall with the rougher side facing towards the framing or studs. The smoother side is typically considered to be the finished side and is usually the side that should face out. This is because the smoother surface is easier to tape, texture, and paint. However, it’s important to note that some types of drywall, such as those with a moisture-resistant coating, may have specific instructions that override this general guideline. It is always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific type of drywall being used.