How Much Does Your Drywall Weigh?
Use our calculator to determine how heavy your drywall debris is — and make sure you rent the right dumpster for the job.
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How Do I Calculate Drywall Weight?
To get a reliable weight estimate, just enter the details for each drywall sheet — including its thickness, type, length, width and quantity. Based on your input, we’ll calculate the total estimated weight to help you choose the best dumpster size for your cleanup. If you have more questions or would prefer one-on-one support, give our team a call.
Common Types of Drywall:
- Standard drywall (white board): Ideal for most interior walls and ceilings.
- Green board: Moisture-resistant and commonly used in bathrooms or laundry areas.
- Blue board: A base for plaster finishes, also known as plasterboard; more mold-resistant than standard types.
- Lightweight drywall: Engineered to be up to 30% lighter than standard drywall, making it useful for ceilings.
- Type X drywall: Fire-resistant and heavier than typical drywall sheets.
- Soundproof drywall: Designed for noise reduction, made with multiple dense layers.
Drywall may seem lightweight, but the pounds pile up quickly during demolition. Whether you're removing a few panels or tackling a full-scale renovation, our calculator helps you estimate the total weight so you stay within your dumpster’s weight limit.
How Much Does Drywall Weigh?
Drywall sheet weight depends on the type of panel, its thickness and its dimensions. Fire-resistant drywall weighs significantly more than lightweight options, while moisture-resistant falls in between. Most residential drywall is 4 feet wide, with common lengths ranging from 8 to 16 feet.
Standard and Lightweight Drywall Weight by Sheet Size and Thickness (4' width in pounds)
Thickness | Weight per Sq. Ft. | 4' x 8' | 4' x 10' | 4' x 12' | 4' x 14' |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1/4" standard | 1.2 lbs | 38 lbs | 48 lbs | 57 lbs | 67 lbs |
3/8" standard | 1.5 lbs | 48 lbs | 60 lbs | 72 lbs | 84 lbs |
1/2" standard | 1.8 lbs | 57 lbs | 71 lbs | 85 lbs | 99 lbs |
1/2" lightweight | 1.4 lbs | 44.8 lbs | 56 lbs | 67.2 lbs | 78.4 lbs |
5/8" standard | 2.2 lbs | 72 lbs | 90 lbs | 108 lbs | 126 lbs |
5/8" lightweight | 1.65 lbs | 54.6 lbs | 68.2 lbs | 81.9 lbs | 95.5 lbs |
Standard and Lightweight Drywall Weight by Sheet Size and Thickness (4.5' width, in pounds)
Thickness | 4.5' x 8' | 4.5' x 10' | 4.5' x 12' | 4.5' x 14' |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1/4" standard | 43.2 lbs | 54 lbs | 64.8 lbs | 75.6 lbs |
3/8" standard | 54 lbs | 67.5 lbs | 81 lbs | 94.5 lbs |
1/2" standard | 64.8 lbs | 81 lbs | 97.2 lbs | 113.4 lbs |
1/2" lightweight | 50.4 lbs | 63 lbs | 75.6 lbs | 88.2 lbs |
5/8" standard | 79.2 lbs | 99 lbs | 118.8 lbs | 138.6 lbs |
5/8" lightweight | 59.4 lbs | 74.3 lbs | 89.1 lbs | 103.9 lbs |
Pro Tip: Used Drywall Weighs More Than New Sheets
Don't forget to account for joint compound, tape and other materials attached to used drywall when calculating disposal weight. Finished drywall with mud and paint can weigh 10% to 15% more than new drywall sheets.
Common drywall components that add weight:
- Joint compound/mud
- Paper or mesh tape
- Corner beads
- Paint layers
- Texture materials
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Drywall Weight FAQs
What does a sheet of drywall weigh?
A standard 4' x 8' sheet of 1/2-inch drywall typically weighs around 57 pounds, though the weight can vary depending on the manufacturer. For specialty types like fire-resistant or moisture-resistant drywall, the weight is usually higher due to added materials.
How much does drywall weigh per square foot?
The weight of drywall depends on its thickness and whether it's standard or lightweight. Here are the typical weight ranges:
- 1/4" thick: 1.2 pounds per square foot
- 3/8" thick: 1.5 pounds per square foot
- 1/2" thick (standard): 1.8 pounds per square foot
- 1/2" thick (lightweight): 1.4 pounds per square foot
- 5/8" thick (standard): 2.2 pounds per square foot
- 5/8" thick (lightweight): 1.65 pounds per square foot
Keep in mind that finished drywall (with joint compound, tape, texture and paint) can weigh 10% to 15% more than new, unfinished sheets.
How do I estimate the weight of drywall I’m tossing?
Use our drywall calculator. Just enter the size, type and number of sheets — we’ll give you an estimated total weight to help you choose the right dumpster size. If you’re tossing finished drywall with joint compound and paint, add 10% to 15% to the estimated weight.
What's the weight difference between regular and moisture-resistant drywall?
Regular drywall is made of gypsum wrapped in paper facing, while moisture-resistant drywall (green board) has a water-repellent facing and core additives that help prevent mold and moisture damage. Moisture-resistant drywall typically weighs slightly more than standard drywall.
Can I put drywall in a dumpster?
In most locations, yes — drywall can be thrown in dumpsters that accept construction debris. However, some municipalities have restrictions on drywall disposal due to concerns about hydrogen sulfide gas production in landfills. In certain areas, you must separate drywall for proper disposal. Check local regulations or contact us for guidance on proper disposal in your area.
What’s the best dumpster size for drywall?
For projects involving a lot of drywall, a 20 yard dumpster is a solid choice. It can hold 2 to 3 tons of debris, which usually covers full room demolitions or remodels. A 20 yard dumpster can hold approximately:
- 88 sheets of 1/2-inch drywall
- 100 to 120 sheets of thinner drywall (1/4-inch or 3/8-inch)
- 69 sheets of thicker drywall (5/8-inch)
How should I prepare drywall for disposal?
Break down large pieces into manageable sizes that fit easily in your dumpster. Keep drywall as dry as possible, as wet drywall is heavier and more difficult to handle. If recycling, follow any separation guidelines provided by the recycling facility.
Is there a way to recycle drywall?
Yes, some areas have specialized drywall recycling facilities. The recycling process recovers gypsum and uses it to manufacture new drywall or as a soil amendment in agriculture. Recyclers turn paper facing into new paper products.
Drywall Disposal Resources
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