What’s the Best Drywall for Bathrooms and Kitchens?

When it comes to remodeling or building a new home, choosing the right drywall for each room is more important than you might think. And when you're dealing with high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens, using the wrong type of drywall can lead to expensive repairs later on. So, what’s the best drywall for bathrooms and kitchens? Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can make the right choice for your home or renovation project.

Not All Drywall Is Created Equal

First things first—standard drywall, also known as whiteboard, is great for most areas in the home. It’s affordable, easy to install, and does the job just fine in living rooms, bedrooms, or hallways. But in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens? It just doesn’t hold up.

Why? Because standard drywall absorbs moisture like a sponge. Over time, that can mean warping, mold growth, and crumbling walls—definitely not what you want in your bathroom or behind your stove.

That’s where specialty drywall comes in.

1. Moisture-Resistant Drywall (Green Board)

One of the most commonly used options for bathrooms and kitchens is green board—named for its green paper facing that resists moisture better than regular drywall.

Pros:

• More resistant to humidity than standard drywall

• Easy to work with and cut

• Budget-friendly

Best for:

Green board is a solid choice for bathroom walls (not ceilings or showers) and kitchen backsplashes, where there might be the occasional splash or steam but not constant moisture.

But keep in mind: It’s not waterproof. Green board can still grow mold if it gets too wet, so don’t use it inside a shower or anywhere water might sit.

2. Mold-Resistant Drywall (Purple Board)

Looking for more protection? Enter purple board—a type of mold- and moisture-resistant drywall that takes things up a notch.

Pros:

• Excellent resistance to mold and mildew

• Stronger than green board

• Can be used in high-humidity areas

Best for:

Bathrooms and kitchens with poor ventilation, or in humid climates where moisture is a bigger issue. It’s a good all-around choice for any walls or ceilings where you want added peace of mind.

Bonus: Purple board is also fire-resistant, which is great for kitchen safety.

3. Cement Board (Backer Board)

When you’re dealing with direct water exposure—like in a shower, behind tile, or near a sink—green or purple board won’t cut it. You need something waterproof, not just water-resistant. That’s where the cement board comes in.

Pros:

• 100% waterproof

• Perfect for tile backing

• Extremely durable and mold-resistant

Best for:

• Shower walls and floors

• Bathtub surrounds

• Backsplashes with a lot of water exposure

• Saunas or steam rooms

Heads up: Cement board is heavier and harder to cut, so it takes more effort to install. But for wet zones, it’s hands down the best choice.

4. Paperless Drywall

Instead of traditional paper-facing, paperless drywall uses a fiberglass mat, making it even more resistant to mold and moisture.

Pros:

• Mold-resistant

• Doesn’t break down as easily when exposed to water

• Lightweight and strong

Best for:

Bathrooms and kitchens where you want a lightweight, durable solution with better protection than a green board but not as heavy-duty as cement board.

It’s becoming a more popular option thanks to its durability and ease of installation.

Choosing the Right Drywall: Room-by-Room Guide

Let’s keep it simple. Here's a quick guide to what drywall works best in different parts of your bathroom and kitchen:

1. Green Board – Moisture-Resistant, But Not Waterproof

Green board is a common choice for bathrooms and kitchens. It’s similar to standard drywall but has a moisture-resistant green coating that helps it resist humidity better.

It’s a good option for areas like bathroom walls that don’t get direct water exposure, or behind your kitchen countertops where occasional splashes happen. But it’s not meant to be used in very wet areas—like inside a shower—because it can still absorb water over time.

2. Purple Board – Mold and Moisture Resistant

Purple board steps things up by offering better protection against both moisture and mold. It’s stronger than green board and more durable over the long term.

If your bathroom tends to get steamy or your kitchen doesn’t have great ventilation, purple board is worth considering. It’s also great for ceilings, where moisture tends to rise and linger. Because it’s fire-resistant too, it makes a smart choice for areas around cooking appliances.

3. Cement Board – For Direct Water Contact

When you're working in places that get really wet—like inside a shower, around a tub, or behind a tile backsplash—you want something that can handle water without breaking down.

That’s where cement board comes in.

Made of—you guessed it—cement and fibers, this board is 100% waterproof. It doesn’t swell, sag, or support mold. It’s heavier and tougher to cut than regular drywall, but it’s the most reliable option when you need a surface that’s going to stay strong even when water hits it every day.

4. Paperless Drywall – Durable and Mold-Resistant

Paperless drywall is a newer option that’s gaining popularity. Instead of having a paper face (which can trap moisture), it uses a fiberglass mat. This makes it far more resistant to mold and moisture damage.

It’s lighter than cement board and easier to install, making it a good option for bathrooms and kitchens where you want protection without the extra weight.

So, What Should You Use?

Now that we’ve covered the main types, how do you decide?

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• If the area is likely to get splashed but not soaked, like a bathroom wall or the space behind your kitchen sink, green board or purple board is usually enough.

• If it’s going to deal with high humidity, like a bathroom ceiling or an enclosed laundry room, go with purple board for better mold resistance.

• If water will be hitting it directly, like inside a shower or tub surround, always go with cement board.

• If you want an all-around moisture-resistant drywall that’s easy to work with and mold-resistant, paperless drywall offers a great balance.

• 
  

And don’t forget—no matter what drywall you choose, good ventilation is key. Make sure your bathroom has a working exhaust fan and your kitchen has proper airflow to reduce moisture buildup over time.

Don’t Forget About Ventilation!

Even the best drywall won’t last long in a bathroom with poor airflow. Always pair moisture-resistant drywall with good ventilation—like an exhaust fan or openable windows—to keep things dry and mold-free.

Final Thoughts: What Should You Use?

To sum it up:

• Green board: A good budget option for low-moisture areas.

• Purple board: A step up for better mold and moisture resistance.

• Cement board: The go-to for direct water contact and tile jobs.

• Paperless drywall: A newer option that combines strength and resistance.

At the end of the day, the best drywall depends on where you’re installing it and how much moisture the area is exposed to.

Need Help Picking or Installing Drywall?

We’re here to help! Whether you’re remodeling your bathroom, updating your kitchen, or building something new, we offer expert drywall installation and repair services that are tailored to your space. We’ll make sure you get the right materials for the job—done right the first time.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation or get a free quote. Let’s get your home looking great and protected from moisture where it matters most!

Choose Us for the Best Drywall Services in Langley

When it comes to drywall installation, repair, and finishing, we are Langley’s trusted experts. Our commitment to quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction sets us apart. Whether you need flawless drywall for a new commercial space, seamless repairs for existing walls, or custom finishes to match your vision, our skilled professionals deliver top-tier results. We use high-quality materials, precision techniques, and industry expertise to ensure durable and visually stunning walls. With timely project completion and competitive pricing, choosing us means choosing excellence. Let us bring your drywall project to life—contact us today for the best drywall services in Langley!