I'm in the process of fixing up a rundown garage to turn it into a workshop. I'm planning to insulate and put in a new floor, so I need to decide on wall coverings. Initially, I thought about using 5/8 plywood, but an Amish carpenter friend of mine suggested I consider using metal instead. I like the idea that metal won't attract sawdust and doesn't need painting, but it'll cost about $200 more than plywood. A concern I have is that metal might be too noisy. Also, if I go the metal route, I'd have to install furring strips first before hanging plywood on top of that. I'd love to hear any thoughts or experiences you have regarding these options!
3 Answers
Slatwall could be a solid choice if this garage is going to be your workshop for the long haul, though it can be pricey. Personally, I think metal might not be the best option since it could get pretty loud and hanging things might become a hassle. If you’re on a budget, drywall is cheaper and easy to repair. Plus, it absorbs sound well. Just a heads-up, some places require fire-rated materials behind plywood, especially if it’s close to insulation. It’s best to check with your local building codes if you plan to go that route.
When I built my shop, I used 1/2" OSB and put the smoother side out. The only drawback was some of the strands curled up when I painted it, but a bit of glue fixed that. Honestly, if I were to redo it, I’d definitely go for 5/8" plywood. It allows you to mount stuff anywhere, which is a major plus, as long as you hit the studs for heavier items. Dust hasn’t been a big issue for me on the walls either.”},{
Plywood all the way! If budget allows, go for some cheap 3/4" radiata ply. You’ll love the flexibility to hang things wherever you want without worrying about stud placement.
I hear you on the permits, but since your garage is detached and you’re not staying long, I wouldn't stress too much. Drywall can be fragile; I've also ended up damaging it just from bumping into things while working.