Expert: Ted Barnhill (Principal, Design45 LLC) - 3/11/2011

Question
QUESTION: Can you tell me if it ok to use 1/2" drywall in a "summer" use cabin. There will be normal R20 insulation in the walls. We are off of the power grid so there is no way to heat it while we are away and during the winter. I am afraid that we we shut it down for the winter, or when we arrive and warm the house up - possibly from below freezing temperatures, that we will create more moisture than the drywall can handle.

ANSWER: Andrew,

You are correct that in a space that experiences wide swings in temperature and humidity, drywall is a risky choice.  When you heat the space from very cold temperatures (and then add moisture by cooking, bathing, breathing...) you will experience condensation on/within the drywall.  Over time this is hard on the joints and has the potential to create a mold problem.  If you do decide on drywall, I would consider using fiberglass-faced drywall to prevent mold issues.

Ted Barnhill
Design 45 LLC

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Ted,

Is "Denshield", which is a board commonly used in showers,a similar product? A little expensive for a whole house. It has been suggested to me to use a vapour barrier paint and regular drywall. Your thoughts?

Answer
Andrew,

Denshield is a more expensive product with an extra waterproofing coating.  Also, it does not have tapered edges for taping the joints, as other paperless drywall does.  Some names in paperless drywall are:

U.S. Gypsum (Sheetrock® Brand Humitek®)
National Gypsum (Gold Bond Brand XP)
Temple-Inland (Silent-Guard™ TS)
Georgia Pacific (DensArmor® Plus)
U.S. Gypsum (FiberRoc® AquaTough™)

Best of luck with your cabin.

Ted Barnhill
Design 45 LLC