Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Model Lead Based Paint Risk Assessor Practice Test

Which of the following statements about drywall is true?

1. It is a type of wood finishing

2. It is a wall covering that is applied wet

3. It refers to gypsum board used for interior wall surfaces

4. It is primarily used for roof structures

The correct answer is: It refers to gypsum board used for interior wall surfaces

Drywall, commonly referred to as gypsum board, is indeed used for interior wall surfaces. It consists of a core made of gypsum—a mineral that provides fire resistance—and is encased in heavy paper. This material is lightweight, easy to install, and provides a smooth surface for painting or wallpapering, making it a popular choice for constructing walls and ceilings in homes and buildings. The use of drywall has become the standard in modern construction for creating partitions and finishing interiors. In contrast, drywall is not associated with wood finishing, which involves techniques to treat and finish wooden surfaces. It also is not a wall covering applied in a wet state; rather, it is installed in panels that are secured to studs and finished with joint compound. Additionally, while drywall can be used in ceilings, particularly in residential construction, it is designed primarily for vertical wall surfaces rather than roof structures. This unique characteristic further confirms that gypsum board is specifically intended for interior wall applications.