What is the standard thickness of drywall used in most residential applications?

The standard thickness of drywall used in most residential applications is 1/2 inch. This thickness is widely accepted for interior walls and ceilings in residential buildings because it strikes a balance between providing adequate strength and being lightweight and easy to work with. It is also suitable for framing that is spaced 16 to 24 inches apart, which is common in residential construction.

While there are other thicknesses of drywall available for specialized applications – such as 5/8 inch drywall, which is often used for ceilings or in situations where additional fire resistance is necessary, and thinner options like 1/4 inch for curved surfaces or repairs – 1/2 inch remains the default for most standard wall applications. The other thicknesses are used less frequently in typical residential projects, therefore reinforcing the designation of 1/2 inch as the standard choice for drywall installation in homes.