5 Sheetrock Alternatives That Are Easier, Greener, and More Durable
By Graham Mann | Published: 12/9/2025
Compare five drywall alternatives—MgO board, agricultural waste panels, plywood, cork, and synthetic gypsum—for greener, more durable, and easier-to-install walls.
5 Sheetrock Alternatives That Are Easier, Greener, and More Durable Sheetrock, or drywall, is a common choice for walls, but it has downsides like high resource consumption, waste, and environmental impact. Fortunately, there are better options that are easier to work with, more durable, and eco-friendly. Here are five alternatives: - Magnesium Oxide (MgO) Board: Strong, fire-resistant, mold-proof, and made with fewer emissions than drywall. Costs $1.50–$3.00 per sq. ft. - Agricultural Waste Panels: Made from crop byproducts like hemp or straw, these panels are carbon-negative and compostable. Costs $1.25–$2.50 per sq. ft. - Plywood Panels: Durable and resistant to warping, with a natural wood look. Requires moisture barriers in damp areas. Costs $0.75–$2.00 per sq. ft. - Cork Panels: Lightweight, renewable, and naturally moisture- and fire-resistant. Best for accent walls or low-traffic spaces. Costs $2.00–$5.00 per sq. ft. - Synthetic Gypsum Board: Recycled from industrial byproducts...
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