When considering wall and ceiling finishes for your home, two popular options often come to mind: drywall and tongue and groove (T&G) wood. Both have their merits, but the question of cost is a big one. Is tongue and groove wood cheaper than installing drywall?
The answer depends on several factors, including materials, labor, and whether you’re tackling the project yourself or hiring professionals. Let’s break it down.
Drywall: Affordable Materials, Potentially High Labor Costs
Drywall is a go-to choice for many homeowners due to its affordability and versatility. The materials themselves—drywall sheets, joint compound, tape, and screws—are typically very budget-friendly. However, the total cost of a drywall installation can climb quickly when you factor in labor.
If you’re hiring professionals, the process involves multiple steps: hanging the drywall, taping and mudding seams, sanding, priming, and painting. Each of these steps requires skill and time, and labor costs can be significant, especially in regions with high demand for skilled contractors. A poorly finished drywall job can also lead to visible seams or imperfections, requiring additional work and expense to correct.
Beyond labor, another downside of drywall is the mess it creates. The sanding process generates a fine dust that can infiltrate every corner of your home, from air ducts to furniture. Even with plastic sheeting and precautions, this dust can linger for months, requiring ongoing cleanup. For homeowners sensitive to dust or those with allergies, this can be a major drawback.
Tongue and Groove Wood: Higher Material Costs, DIY-Friendly Installation
Tongue and groove wood, often used for walls and ceilings, offers a warm, natural aesthetic that’s hard to beat. The materials for T&G wood, such as Pine, Teak, Red Grandis and Pecky Bolivian Walnut are generally more expensive than drywall. However, the overall cost can be competitive when you consider the installation process.
One of the biggest advantages of T&G wood is that it’s an accessible DIY project for homeowners with basic skills. With tools like a nail gun, a chop saw, and a level, many homeowners can install T&G wood themselves, saving significantly on labor costs. The interlocking design of T&G boards makes installation straightforward, and there’s no need for the extensive finishing steps required with drywall—no mudding, taping, or painting.
Additionally, opting for prefinished T&G wood, like that available from AdvantageLumber.com, can streamline the process even further. Prefinished boards come ready to install, eliminating the need for on-site staining or sealing. This not only saves time but also reduces mess and fumes. The only dust generated during T&G installation comes from cutting boards to length, which can be minimized by using a chop saw with built-in dust control or by cutting boards outside, such as in a garage.
Comparing the Costs
So, which option is cheaper? It depends on your situation:
- Materials: Drywall is typically cheaper upfront for materials, while T&G wood has a higher initial cost.
- Labor: Hiring professionals for drywall can drive up costs due to the multi-step process. T&G wood, especially for DIYers, can eliminate or reduce labor expenses.
- Long-Term Considerations: Drywall may require repainting or repairs over time, while T&G wood is durable and low-maintenance, especially if prefinished.
For example, a small room might cost $500–$2,000 for drywall materials, professional installation and the level of drywall finish you want, while T&G wood for the same space might cost $800–$1,500 for materials alone. If you install T&G yourself, you could save hundreds compared to a professionally installed drywall job.
The Dust Factor
One often-overlooked advantage of T&G wood is the minimal mess it creates. Drywall installation, particularly the sanding phase, produces fine dust that can settle in air ducts, on surfaces, and even in your HVAC system, reappearing long after the project is complete.
In contrast, prefinished T&G wood from AdvantageLumber.com generates virtually no dust during installation, aside from minor sawdust when cutting boards. By using a dust-controlled chop saw or cutting outdoors, you can keep your home clean and dust-free.
Which Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between tongue and groove wood and drywall depends on your budget, DIY skills, and priorities. If you’re looking for the cheapest material and don’t mind hiring professionals or dealing with dust, drywall might be the way to go. However, if you value a low-maintenance, dust-free installation and are comfortable with basic DIY tasks, T&G wood can be a cost-effective and beautiful alternative.
For homeowners seeking a high-quality, hassle-free option, prefinished T&G wood from AdvantageLumber.com offers an attractive solution. With minimal dust, easy installation, and a timeless look, it’s a strong contender for your next home project.
What’s your take? Are you leaning toward the classic drywall route or the rustic charm of tongue and groove wood? Let us know in the comments!