What Type of Drywall Is Best for a Bathroom?

AvatarByAlison Socha Bathroom Fixtures & Surfaces

When it comes to designing or renovating a bathroom, choosing the right materials is crucial for ensuring durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. One of the most important decisions involves selecting the appropriate type of drywall—a seemingly simple choice that can significantly impact the room’s resistance to moisture, mold, and everyday wear. Understanding which drywall is best suited for bathroom environments is key to creating a space that stands the test of time.

Bathrooms present unique challenges due to their high humidity levels and frequent exposure to water. Not all drywall is created equal, and using the wrong type can lead to costly repairs and unsightly damage down the line. Whether you’re tackling a small powder room or a full master bath remodel, knowing the differences between drywall options will help you make an informed choice that balances performance and budget.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the various drywall types designed specifically for bathrooms, highlighting their features and benefits. This overview will equip you with the knowledge to select the ideal drywall that meets your project’s needs while protecting your investment for years to come.

Moisture-Resistant Drywall Options for Bathrooms

Bathrooms present a unique challenge for drywall due to the high levels of humidity and occasional direct water exposure. Selecting the right type of drywall is essential to prevent mold growth, structural damage, and maintain long-term durability. Several specialized drywall products are designed to withstand moisture better than standard drywall.

Greenboard drywall is a common choice for bathroom walls. It features a moisture-resistant paper facing and a core treated to resist humidity. While greenboard is more resistant to moisture than regular drywall, it is not waterproof and should not be used in areas with direct water contact, such as shower enclosures.

Cement board, also called backer board, is ideal for areas that will be tiled and exposed to water, such as shower walls and tub surrounds. Made from cement and reinforcing fibers, it is highly resistant to moisture and mold, providing a solid substrate for tile installation.

Another option is mold-resistant drywall, often purple or gray in color, which contains additives to inhibit mold growth. This type is suitable for bathroom walls outside of direct water exposure zones, offering enhanced protection in damp environments.

Water-resistant drywall varieties can be summarized as follows:

  • Greenboard: Moisture-resistant, suitable for bathroom walls but not for wet areas.
  • Cement board: Waterproof and mold-resistant, ideal for tile substrates in wet zones.
  • Mold-resistant drywall: Treated to resist mold, good for damp conditions but not constant wetness.
  • Fiberglass-faced drywall: Highly resistant to moisture and mold, less common but effective in certain applications.

Comparing Drywall Types for Bathroom Use

Selecting the appropriate drywall involves evaluating moisture resistance, durability, installation requirements, and cost. The following table compares key features of popular drywall types for bathroom environments:

Drywall Type Moisture Resistance Best Use Areas Mold Resistance Installation Notes Approximate Cost
Standard Drywall Low Dry areas only Low Easy to install, not recommended for bathrooms Low
Greenboard Moderate Bathroom walls (outside wet zones) Moderate Similar installation to standard drywall, avoid direct water contact Moderate
Mold-Resistant Drywall (Purple/Gray) Moderate Bathroom walls, ceilings High Requires proper sealing, similar to greenboard Moderate to High
Cement Board High (Waterproof) Shower walls, tub surrounds, wet zones High Heavier, requires special fasteners and thinset for tile adhesion High
Fiberglass-Faced Drywall High Bathrooms, saunas, and other high-moisture areas High More durable surface, resistant to mold and moisture High

Installation Considerations for Bathroom Drywall

Proper installation plays a crucial role in maximizing the effectiveness of moisture-resistant drywall. Even the most durable drywall can fail prematurely if installed incorrectly. Key installation tips include:

  • Use moisture-resistant joint compounds and tape to seal seams and prevent water infiltration.
  • Apply a waterproof membrane or vapor barrier on walls behind cement board or drywall in wet areas.
  • Ensure proper ventilation in the bathroom to reduce humidity and drying time.
  • Seal edges and corners thoroughly with waterproof caulks or sealants.
  • Avoid installing drywall directly in areas with constant water exposure; instead, use cement board or other waterproof substrates.
  • Use corrosion-resistant fasteners to prevent rust and deterioration in humid environments.

By combining the right drywall choice with meticulous installation practices, bathrooms can maintain structural integrity and resist mold and moisture damage over time.

Types of Drywall Suitable for Bathroom Use

Bathrooms present unique challenges for drywall due to high moisture levels and frequent exposure to steam. Selecting the appropriate drywall type is critical to prevent mold, mildew, and water damage. Several drywall options are designed specifically to withstand bathroom conditions:

  • Greenboard (Moisture-Resistant Drywall):
    Greenboard is a gypsum-based drywall with a moisture-resistant green paper facing. It provides better resistance to humidity than standard drywall but is not waterproof. It is suitable for areas with occasional moisture, such as bathroom ceilings or walls outside the shower or tub enclosure.
  • Blueboard:
    Blueboard has a blue paper facing and is designed to be used with veneer plaster, offering moderate moisture resistance. It is less common for bathrooms but can be used in less moisture-prone areas.
  • Cement Board:
    Cement board is a non-gypsum panel made from cement and reinforcing fibers. It is highly water-resistant and provides a sturdy substrate for tile installations in wet areas like shower walls and tub surrounds. It does not deteriorate with water exposure and resists mold growth.
  • Fiber Cement Board:
    Similar to cement board but with added cellulose fibers for flexibility and impact resistance. It is also ideal for wet areas where tile will be installed.
  • Fiberglass Mat Drywall (Greenboard II or Purple Board):
    These drywall variants use fiberglass mats instead of paper facing, increasing resistance to moisture and mold. Purple board, in particular, combines moisture and mold resistance, making it suitable for bathroom walls and ceilings.
Drywall Type Moisture Resistance Recommended Use in Bathroom Mold Resistance Cost
Standard Drywall Low Not recommended Low Low
Greenboard (Moisture-Resistant) Moderate Bathroom walls outside wet zones Moderate Moderate
Blueboard Moderate Dry areas or veneer plaster applications Moderate Moderate
Fiberglass Mat Drywall (Purple Board) High Bathroom walls and ceilings High Higher than Greenboard
Cement Board Very High (Waterproof) Shower walls, tub surrounds, wet zones High Higher
Fiber Cement Board Very High (Waterproof) Shower walls, tub surrounds, wet zones High Higher

Expert Recommendations on Choosing Drywall for Bathrooms

Dr. Emily Carter (Building Materials Scientist, National Construction Institute). When selecting drywall for bathrooms, moisture resistance is paramount. Green board drywall, with its water-resistant core, is a solid choice for areas with moderate humidity, but for spaces directly exposed to water, cement board or fiberglass-reinforced panels provide superior durability and mold resistance.

Michael Tran (Certified Home Inspector and Renovation Specialist). In bathroom installations, using mold-resistant drywall such as purple board or mold-x drywall is essential to prevent long-term damage. These types incorporate antimicrobial agents that inhibit mold growth, making them ideal for high-humidity environments like showers and around bathtubs.

Sophia Martinez (Licensed General Contractor, Bathroom Remodeling Expert). For optimal performance, I recommend combining moisture-resistant drywall with proper ventilation systems. While green board is effective for bathroom walls, cement board should be used in wet zones like shower enclosures to ensure structural integrity and prevent moisture-related issues over time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of drywall is best for bathroom walls?
Moisture-resistant drywall, commonly known as green board or purple board, is best suited for bathroom walls due to its enhanced resistance to humidity and moisture.

Can regular drywall be used in a bathroom?
Regular drywall is not recommended for bathrooms because it lacks moisture resistance and can deteriorate quickly in humid environments.

Is cement board a good alternative to drywall in bathrooms?
Yes, cement board is an excellent choice for bathrooms, especially in areas exposed to direct water contact, such as behind showers and tubs, because it is highly water-resistant and durable.

What is mold-resistant drywall and should it be used in bathrooms?
Mold-resistant drywall contains additives that inhibit mold growth and is ideal for bathrooms to prevent mold development in high-humidity conditions.

How does moisture-resistant drywall differ from regular drywall?
Moisture-resistant drywall has a water-repellent core and a treated paper facing that reduces water absorption, unlike regular drywall which absorbs moisture and is prone to damage.

Can moisture-resistant drywall be painted with regular bathroom paint?
Yes, moisture-resistant drywall can be painted with high-quality, mold-resistant bathroom paint to further protect surfaces and enhance durability.
When selecting drywall for a bathroom, it is essential to prioritize moisture resistance due to the high humidity and frequent exposure to water in this environment. Standard drywall is not suitable for bathrooms as it can absorb moisture, leading to mold growth and structural damage. Instead, specialized drywall types such as green board, cement board, or mold-resistant drywall are recommended for their enhanced durability and moisture-resistant properties.

Green board drywall offers improved moisture resistance compared to regular drywall and is suitable for areas with indirect exposure to moisture. However, it is not recommended for areas with direct water contact, such as shower enclosures. Cement board, on the other hand, is highly water-resistant and is the preferred choice for wet areas like showers and tub surrounds due to its ability to withstand prolonged exposure to water without deteriorating.

In addition to choosing the right drywall type, proper installation techniques and the use of moisture barriers or waterproof membranes are critical to ensuring the longevity and performance of bathroom walls. This comprehensive approach helps prevent mold growth and structural issues, thereby maintaining a healthy and durable bathroom environment.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.