Before you start that remodeling project, it helps to know how much a sheet of drywall weighs. These suckers can be heavy, and they actually vary a little depending on the size of the sheet.
The weight of a sheet of drywall is affected by its thickness, size, and construction. For a frame of reference, standard ultralight 1/2" drywall that is used in interior residential construction generally weighs about 39.2 pounds for one 4' x 8' sheet. A 5/8" sheet of drywall, which is used to achieve fire ratings, typically weighs a little over 70 pounds. Also, depending on their dimensions, special types of drywall including moisture-resistant products, are often even heavier. Get to know your options so you can plan for the muscle power you'll need to get your DIY job done.
How Much Does a Sheet of Drywall Weigh in Each Size?
| Thickness | Width & Length | Weight of Drywall Sheet |
|---|---|---|
| 1/4 inch | 4x8 feet | 33.8 pounds |
| 3/8 inch | 4x8 feet | 38.4 pounds |
| 1/2 inch | 4x8 feet | 39.2 pounds |
| 1/2 inch | 4x10 feet | 49 pounds |
| 1/2 inch | 4x12 feet | 58.8 pounds |
| 5/8 inch | 4x8 feet | 70.4 pounds |
| 5/8 inch | 4x10 feet | 105.6 pounds |
| 5/8 inch | 4x12 feet | 109 pounds |
Drywall is typically used to construct interior walls and ceilings, and it comes in lots of sizes. Drywall is made of gypsum plaster, which is finished with a sheet of paper on each side. It is kiln dried to seal the paper and harden the panel. Finished panels are typically four feet wide and eight feet tall, but larger panel sizes are also available, including four feet by 10 or 12 feet.
Just to make things more complicated, drywall comes in different thicknesses too. The most common thicknesses are 1/2" and 5/8", but drywall is also manufactured in 1/4" and 3/8" thick sheets.
Aside from very old buildings, it is very likely that drywall covers the interiors of your home, office, and many retail stores that you visit. While the correct technical term for drywall is "gypsum wallboard," it is commonly and incorrectly referred to as Sheetrock, which is a trademarked brand.
Types of Drywall That Might Be Heavier
Additionally, there are a multitude of drywall products that contain different materials to produce desired effects.
- Fire-resistant gypsum board can be a bit heavier than standard drywall because it is often 5/8 inch thick. A 4' x 8' sheet weighs about 70.4 pounds.
- Greenboard, blueboard, and purpleboard are identifiable by their green, blue, or purple paper. These types provide moisture and humidity resistance for spaces like bathrooms, and this coating can add to the weight. A 4' x 8' sheet of greenboard that's 1/2 inch thick weighs in at 48 pounds (more than eight pounds heavier than standard).
- Soundboard is constructed of wood fibers for sound absorption, and some types are laminated. It's heavier than standard drywall. It varies in specific weight depending on the type.
Safety Precautions for Handling Drywall
Now that you can answer the question, how much does a sheet of drywall weigh, you understand that drywall appears deceptively lightweight. Just because it looks like a thin sheet coated in paper doesn't mean that one person can easily lift a panel. Follow a few tips for safely handling and installing drywall.
- Purchase the thinnest drywall that is appropriate for your job to avoid overspending and potentially injuring yourself.
- Ask the supplier to drop your stack of drywall off as close as possible to the location where you will be installing it so that you don't have to carry sheets long distances.
- If you must move several sheets at once, use a hand truck or dolly.
- Move only one sheet by hand at a time to avoid injury.
- Two sets of hands are better than one. Enlist help to move your drywall sheets so you are responsible for only one end, which will also help prevent damage to the delicate corners.
- Use a drywall lift or jack to install the drywall, especially when working alone.
- If you are inexperienced with hanging drywall, ask a drywall-savvy friend to help out or hire a professional.
Get Your Drywall Project Done Efficiently
Knowing how much a sheet of drywall weighs for the size you need can help you get your project done efficiently without injuring yourself. Drywall makes a great, versatile finish for any room and lets you explore all kinds of wallcoverings and painting options to express your sense of style.
