Drywall alternatives?

[Sierra Stud]

Has anyone done any different type of wall covering other than drywall?

I've looked into a plastic style 4X8' sheets that are 3/16" thick and has a beaded water look to it.. if that makes any sence. I figure that if I go with something like that, I can silicone seal all the joints and have an easy to clean wall covering that would remain glossy and never have to be painted.

Any options or input?

 

[oldgoat]

I take it you are talking about the bathtub wall panels? They probably would be a good idea as long as you put them over some kind of support. The ones I have seen are rather flimsey. I kind of like the idea if I hadn't already done my walls. Have heard of using pegboard and also OSB or plywood. I don't like OSB because it just looks a little ragged.

 

[Sierra Stud]

I take it you are talking about the bathtub wall panels? They probably would be a good idea as long as you put them over some kind of support. The ones I have seen are rather flimsey. I kind of like the idea if I hadn't already done my walls. Have heard of using pegboard and also OSB or plywood. I don't like OSB because it just looks a little ragged.

I don't think their bathtub panals, I think they use these panels for more/less industrial needs, like resturant kitchens

I'll look for the link on the Lowes website and post it up.
Thanks for the reply!

 

[Sierra Stud]

I guess its 1/8" thick and your right, it would definatly need some type of backing.

Here's the link: Here

 

[PAToyota]

Search a little bit - people have used FRP, corrugated metal, and other materials.

 

[Lu47Dan]

Most of the backing I have seen behind those panel is 1/2" drywall , the drywall is taped ,mudded and sanded . Then the panels are glued up to the drywall with Liquid nails type adhesive . the seams are hidden with a vinyl channel made for that application . And these panels do not last forever , grinding sparks like to stick to them ( don't ask how I know ) , some automotive chemicals stain them , and a host of other problems . But if you are looking for a different look then have at it and post pictures of the finished project . Dan

 

[mulepackin]

Be careful not using drywall and tape first on garage walls, especially an attached garage. My area building code requires fire rock and taped (5/8 rock on walls and double taped) for att. garages. Not too sure on nonattached garage, but I'd check. If not done and you have an issue, your insurance may not pay, or if you go to sell it may have to be done to satisfy some gov't subsidized loans.

 

[Krodad]

Hardi-Panel!

 

[Davey4000]

I'm using 1"x8"x12' kiln dried pine boards. They are rough on one side and smooth on the other. I'm installing them rough side out and will not paint or stain them. The bottom 4' will be vertical and the top 6' horizontal. I'm going to install a chair rail of sorts at the transition with a small ledge for laying things.

I found them for $3.90 each so it works out to be about $0.50 a sq ft. My only concern is combustibility, but I'm going with it anyway.

 

[leadsled01]

I used 7/16" osb. I can hang anything anywhere, holds screws and nails very well.

 

[1320stang]

Hardi-Panel!

There you go!! Cement fiber board, impervious to water, harder than drywall, paintable, needs no backing although it would be tougher between studs if you did. I don't know what kind of fire rating it has, but it doesn't burn and shouldn't be a problem with grinding or welding sparks. You can get it smooth, with a stucco texture, or in a T-111 style.

 

[Chop Top]

I used FRP in my garage. It reflects light well and is easy to clean. Just shoot it with a pressure washer and good as new. A friend that installs this type of panels for a living gave it to me. I installed it over OSB plywood. The plywood is nice to have as a backer so that it is easy to hang cabinets, shelves, and other such without searching for a stud in the wall.

If you decided to go this route, let me know and I can gice some tips on install.

Chop

 

[kbs2244]

Go to www.teksupply.com

They sell to landscapers, daries, etc. Lots of different kinds of panels, PEX pipe for the floors, lights, etc, etc, etc.

Get the catalog. It is a good read.

 

[daworz]

I had a friend that has a car detail shop and removed all the Bright White vinyal(sp) siding off a house and put it up in his shop with shop lights on the walls and man is it bright? He used cheap OSB board on the walls before. Looks sharp. May not be what your after but he also has wire shelves on the wall also. And at one end of the shop he has old metal cabnits that he had painted with auto paint (clear coat),Red and man do those look sharp as well.

 

[badhst]

Take a look at www.nudo.com they have a wide variety of products ranging from plywood backed sheeting to drywall backed sheeting. these products are the same type materials found at most of your self wash car washes. These are excellent products, as I am going to finish my 40' x 50' garage with them this spring !!!