Are Drywall and Sheetrock the Same Thing?

If you're starting a renovation or new construction project, chances are you've heard both "drywall" and "Sheetrock" tossed around. They’re often used interchangeably by contractors, DIYers, and even suppliers. But are drywall and Sheetrock really the same thing? Or is there a key difference between the two?

Let’s break it down and help you understand what you’re really putting behind those walls — and why it matters when you’re working with professionals like DMH Drywall.

What Is Drywall?

Drywall is a widely used building material that serves as the standard for constructing interior walls and ceilings. It’s made from a layer of gypsum plaster sandwiched between two thick sheets of paper. This construction gives it a clean, smooth surface that’s easy to install, finish, and paint.

Drywall is known by several other names, including:

Wallboard
Plasterboard
Gypsum board

It comes in various sizes and thicknesses, and can even be specialized for different purposes — such as moisture-resistant drywall (often used in bathrooms), fire-resistant panels, or soundproofing varieties.

What Is Sheetrock?

Sheetrock is actually a brand name for drywall — much like Kleenex is to tissues or Band-Aid is to adhesive bandages. The name “Sheetrock” was trademarked by the United States Gypsum Company (USG), one of the most well-known manufacturers of drywall in North America.

So, when someone says “Sheetrock,” they are technically referring to drywall made by USG. It’s still gypsum board, and it performs the same function as any other brand of drywall — but the name has become so common that people often use it to refer to drywall in general.

So… Are Drywall and Sheetrock the Same Thing?

Yes — but with a slight distinction. Drywall is the generic term for the material, while Sheetrock is a specific brand of drywall. All Sheetrock is drywall, but not all drywall is Sheetrock.

Think of it like this:

Drywall = the product
Sheetrock = one brand of that product

Other drywall brands you might come across include National Gypsum's Gold Bond, Georgia-Pacific, and CertainTeed.

Why Does the Difference Matter?

For most homeowners and even some professionals, the terms are used interchangeably without issue. But knowing the difference can be helpful in a few key scenarios:

Choosing the Right Material

Some brands like Sheetrock offer premium features, such as mold resistance, improved soundproofing, or better durability. If you’re working with a contractor like DMH Drywall, knowing your options can help you make better decisions based on your specific project.

Communicating with Contractors

Understanding the terminology ensures you and your contractor are on the same page. Whether you want the best fire-resistant panels or the most cost-effective solution, clear communication goes a long way.

Evaluating Quality

Not all drywall is created equal. Sheetrock, for example, is known for its consistency and high quality. If your contractor uses Sheetrock, that can be a sign they’re committed to using premium materials.

How DMH Drywall Can Help

At DMH Drywall, we’ve worked with just about every type of drywall product out there — including Sheetrock. We pride ourselves on helping homeowners and builders choose the right material for the right job.

Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling a kitchen, or upgrading a commercial space, our team will:

Assess your needs
Recommend the right type of drywall
Use top-tier materials (including Sheetrock, when applicable)
Deliver expert installation and finishing

We believe that great results start with great materials — and even better craftsmanship.

In Summary

Drywall and Sheetrock are essentially the same in terms of function, but the difference comes down to branding. Sheetrock is simply a name-brand version of drywall, made by USG, and known for its quality.

So next time someone asks, “Are drywall and Sheetrock the same thing?” you can confidently say:

“Sheetrock is a type of drywall — kind of like how Kleenex is a brand of tissue.”

Ready to Start Your Drywall Project?

Whether you call it drywall or Sheetrock, you want it installed by the best. DMH Drywall is your trusted partner for residential and commercial drywall installation, repair, and finishing.