Looking at cement board and drywall may make one think that they are cut from the same cloth, as both are found in commercial spaces’ walls and ceilings. But look closer, and the differences will leap out. It is like spotting a sports car in a crowd of sedans.

The Cement Board is made with a dense mix of cement and reinforcing fibers, so this material is designed to perform under big challenges. Water-resistant, extremely resilient, and built to withstand the stresses of high-traffic environments that are prone to moisture, it is the material you will want when performance matters. So, think of it more like the bodyguard in your commercial space: standing strong under pressure, no matter what comes its way.

Meanwhile, drywall is the lightweight, easy-going option made of gypsum and paper. While it is a good choice for simple interior walls in dry conditions, it can’t take the heat—or the moisture. Drywall crumbles like a cookie at the first sign of stress when exposed to moisture, heavy use, or demanding conditions. It is a type of material that performs well in environments where things remain calm and controlled.

In essence, drywall is your go-to when you want a fast, budget partition, but when you need something tough, water-resistant, and ready for action, cement board should be your material of choice.