In the past, drywall has been the go-to choice for walls. It’s familiar, relatively cheap upfront, and most people don’t question it; they see it as “permanent.” But that doesn’t mean it’s always the right choice, especially for businesses looking to grow quickly or make layout changes on the fly.
Modular wall systems, however, are not simply an “alternative” to drywall. They solve many problems that drywall simply cannot.
In this article, we cover how modular walls compare to drywall when it comes to installation, flexibility, strength, maintenance, appearance, and long-term costs.
Modular Walls vs Drywall: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Though drywall might seem like the default for most construction projects, that doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for every type of space. Modular wall systems are a different approach to construction, one that’s faster, cleaner, and built for future changes. Here’s how modular walls and drywall compare across a few of the most important areas.
1. Installation
Everyone knows that building with drywall takes time. It needs to be cut, framed, screwed in, taped, mudded, sanded, primed, and painted. It’s a long and messy process that can stretch out over weeks or months.
Modular walls, on the other hand, can be set up in days with a small team (there’s no need for dealing with many contractors). The panels are prefabricated beforehand in a factory, and then brought to the construction site ready to assemble. This translates to less mess, less downtime, and fewer disruptions.
2. Flexibility
Additionally, drywall is permanent. If you want to change a layout, good luck. You’ll need to bring in a whole crew, tear it down, and rebuild it again from scratch.
Modular walls are made to be moved. They can be rearranged, removed, or expanded with the help of only a small team and a couple of days, without having to start all over. It’s by far the better choice for companies that expect growth or regular changes.
3. Strength
Unfortunately, drywall can dent easily and may crack over time, especially in busy or chaotic areas or places equipment and/or other items pass through.
On the other hand, most people think modular walls are for flimsy and for temporary use only, but this couldn’t be the truth.
Nowadays, modular walls with tough materials that can last as long or longer than drywall. Some materials include steel-faced panels, fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), vinyl-clad gypsum, and aluminum or mineral fiber cores, to name a few of the many different choices. Such materials can withstand bumps, scrapes, and impacts without needing constant repair. That’s why you’ll find them in tough places like factories, hospitals, and military bases.
4. Maintenance and Repair
Fixing drywall takes time. Small breaks or holes means sanding, painting, drying, and usually closing off the space for a day or two.
Luckily, modular wall panels can be replaced individually, often in less than a day. There’s no need for paint or dust, and no need to shut down the space around it.
5. Appearance and Finish Choices
Furthermore, drywall gives you one surface: paint. You can change the color, but the material stays more or less the same.
This is not so with modular walls, which come in a wide range of finishes: glass, laminate, FRP, steel, vinyl-clad gypsum, and more (the material can be chosen based on the type of environment you’re in).
And as far as looks go, you can choose a clean and modern look, or choose finishes and colors that match your brand and your space. (Check out our interior options here.)
6. Long-Term Costs
Finally, there’s the consideration of cost.
In truth, drywall sometimes is cheaper at the start. But every time you move a wall or fix a crack, the cost adds up. Not to mention all the uncertainty that can happen during construction. Sometimes it seems like the project will never end.
The costs in time, especially for businesses that need quick solutions, can become a problem.
Regardless of whether modular walls cost more upfront in any particular case, they certainly pay off in the long run. They last longer, are easier to modify or adjust, and can save you time, money, and peace of mind when it comes to updates and repairs.
The Bottom Line
Drywall can work, until you need to change something. Modular walls will work for you both now and later. They go in faster, hold up better over time, and make it easier to adapt your space without starting over. If you want walls that work with you, not against you, modular is by far the better choice.
Interested in setting up modular walls at your location? Reach out to the experts at Allied Modular for a quote on new buildouts:
FAQs: Modular Walls vs Drywall
1. Are modular walls fire-rated like drywall?
They can be. Modular wall systems are available with fire-rated cores and have been tested to meet or exceed the same fire resistance standards as drywall.
2. Do modular walls provide sound insulation?
Yes, absolutely! Modular walls can be built to reduce noise transfer between rooms, which makes them great for offices, meeting rooms, break rooms, and more.
3. Can modular walls be integrated with existing HVAC, lighting, or data systems?
Absolutely. Modular systems are designed with removable panels and built-in channels that allow electricians, IT teams, and HVAC contractors to install or service parts without needing to cut into the wall.
