Can I drywall an unwinterized cottage?
I have an unwinterized cottage in Houghton Lake, mi. Therefore no heat in the winter. I want to add an addition but unsure on whether I can use drywall on walls in lieu of a wood product . I have heard concerns that the drywall will not hold up and crack due to temperature fluctuations. Any input on whether this is valid concern and/or recommendations on making drywall work will be appreciated. It will be installed during warmer times but in the fall and beyond will be subjected to colder and freezing temperatures. Thanks in advance Peter.
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Start by checking local building codes for the area. That might provide invaluable information. If doing an addition, you will have to pull a permit anyway, might as well get a head start.
As long as your cottage does not move from the foundation in the heat and cold, drywall is acceptable. Most people with cottages turn their heat off in the winter and the drywall stays okay with no heaving cracks. My heat is turned off and our temps can get to 35-40 below with no problems. If you have trouble with the doors then you know there is heaving.
Drywall comes in many grades. It sounds like you want the water resistant type. There’s an intermediate basement-Type that is in between the price of basic & water resistant, but only made by Georgia Pacific.
You wrote you were building in addition. Didn’t you have Plans drawn? What does your Plans Drawing person say?
Drywall only cracks when there is structural shifting, as in the entire structure is cracking, or when there is water intrusion and the freeze-thaw cycle breaks it.
Neither of those big things should be happening. Therefore the drywall should not crack.