Home Depot vs Lowes Drywall Prices: Complete Comparison Guide

When planning a drywall project, choosing where to purchase materials can significantly impact your total cost. Home Depot and Lowes are the two dominant home improvement retailers in North America, and while their prices are often competitive, differences in selection, services, and discounts can make one a better choice for your specific project. This comprehensive comparison helps you make an informed purchasing decision.

Price Overview and Comparison

Both Home Depot and Lowe's position themselves competitively in the drywall market, and their base prices for standard products are typically within a few percentage points of each other. However, the "winner" on price varies by product type, location, and current promotions.

Standard Drywall Sheets

For the most common product—1/2-inch, 4x8-foot regular drywall—both retailers typically price sheets between $12 and $18, depending on brand and regional market conditions. Prices fluctuate based on:

• Regional supply and demand
• Distance from manufacturing facilities
• Current commodity prices for gypsum
• Competitive pressure from local lumber yards

Neither chain consistently undercuts the other on standard drywall. The better value often depends on which store has current promotions or better in-stock availability.

2026 Price Comparison: Standard Drywall Sheets

Prices reflect 2026 national averages and may vary by location. Check Home Depot and Lowe's for current local pricing.

Specialty Drywall Products

Price differences become more significant with specialty products like moisture-resistant, fire-rated, and soundproof drywall. These higher-margin items see more variation between retailers:

• Moisture-resistant (green board): Typically 30-50% more than regular drywall at both stores
• Mold-resistant: Premium pricing with 40-60% markup over standard
• Fire-rated Type X: Usually 20-30% more than regular 5/8-inch
• Soundproof drywall: Significant premium, prices vary widely between stores

Thickness and Size Variations

Both retailers carry multiple thicknesses and sheet sizes, though specific availability varies by store. Common options include:

• 1/4-inch: Used for curved walls, typically priced similarly to 1/2-inch
• 3/8-inch: Less common, availability varies significantly
• 1/2-inch: Standard thickness, best pricing and availability
• 5/8-inch: Required for fire ratings and ceilings, moderate premium

Longer sheets (4x10, 4x12) are often special order items and may have better pricing at one store versus the other depending on regional distribution.

Product Selection at Each Store

While both retailers carry the essential drywall products, their selections differ in brands offered, specialty products stocked, and overall inventory depth.

Home Depot Selection

Home Depot typically stocks a broad range of drywall products including:

• USG Sheetrock brand (dominant national brand) -- learn about the difference between drywall and Sheetrock
• Gold Bond by National Gypsum
• Georgia-Pacific products in some regions
• Comprehensive specialty product selection including Sheetrock Brand products for specific applications

Home Depot's stores generally maintain larger in-stock quantities, reflecting their strategy of catering heavily to professional contractors who need immediate availability of construction materials.

Lowes Selection

Lowes carries many of the same brands but with some differences:

• USG Sheetrock brand products
• CertainTeed drywall in many locations
• Gold Bond products regionally
• Strong selection of DIY-friendly products and smaller quantities

Lowes has traditionally positioned itself more toward homeowners and DIYers, which influences their product selection to include more consumer-friendly packaging options and smaller quantity bundles.

Availability Considerations

Product availability can vary significantly between individual store locations. Before planning a large purchase:

• Check online inventory at both retailers for your specific products
• Call the store to confirm quantities for large orders
• Consider that displayed inventory may not reflect actual floor stock
• Ask about incoming shipments if current stock is insufficient

Bulk Pricing and Contractor Discounts

Large projects require significant quantities of drywall, and both retailers offer various discounts for bulk purchases. Understanding these programs can substantially reduce your project costs.

Home Depot Bulk Pricing

Home Depot offers several options for volume buyers:

• Volume pricing: Automatic discounts on purchases exceeding certain quantities
• Pro Xtra program: Tiered discount structure based on annual spending
• Quote program: Custom pricing for large projects, typically requiring 50+ sheets
• Pallet pricing: Better per-sheet pricing when purchasing full pallets

A standard pallet contains 60-66 sheets of 1/2-inch drywall. Purchasing by the pallet often provides the best per-unit pricing, with discounts ranging from 5% to 15% below individual sheet prices.

Lowes Bulk Pricing

Lowes offers comparable bulk purchasing options:

• Volume discounts: Reduced pricing for larger quantities
• Lowe's for Pros: Loyalty program with volume-based discounts
• Quote requests: Custom pricing available for substantial orders
• Special order pricing: Sometimes better rates on large special orders

Negotiating Better Prices

Both retailers have some flexibility on large orders. Tips for negotiating:

• Get quotes from both stores and ask each to beat the other's price
• Time your purchase to coincide with sales events
• Bundle drywall with accessories (mud, tape, screws) for better overall deals
• Ask about price matching if one store has a better advertised price

Delivery Options and Costs

Drywall is heavy, bulky, and difficult to transport in standard vehicles. Delivery service quality and cost significantly impact the total project expense.

Home Depot Delivery

Home Depot offers multiple delivery options:

• Standard delivery: Typically next-day or scheduled delivery, flat fee varies by market
• Flatbed delivery: For large orders, specialized trucks with unloading capabilities
• Will-call/pickup: Free when loading your own vehicle
• Pro delivery: Priority scheduling for Pro Xtra members

Delivery fees typically range from $79 to $149 depending on order size and location. Some markets offer free delivery on orders exceeding certain thresholds.

Lowes Delivery

Lowes provides similar delivery services:

• Standard delivery: Scheduled delivery, pricing comparable to Home Depot
• Same-day delivery: Available in some markets for additional fee
• Free store pickup: Load your vehicle at no charge
• Pro delivery: Enhanced options for Lowes for Pros members

Delivery Considerations

Beyond cost, consider these delivery factors:

• Unloading assistance: Confirm whether drivers will unload or just deliver to curb
• Garage or interior delivery: Some services include placement inside garage
• Scheduling flexibility: Narrow delivery windows reduce waiting time
• Damage policies: Understand who is responsible for transit damage

For DIYers, renting a truck from the store is often more economical than delivery fees for smaller orders. Both retailers offer truck rentals starting around $19-29 for the first 75 minutes.

Delivery & Services Comparison

Store Brand vs Name Brand Products

Both retailers carry national brands alongside their own store-brand alternatives. Understanding the differences helps you balance quality and cost.

National Brand Quality

Major manufacturers like USG, Georgia-Pacific, and CertainTeed produce drywall meeting industry standards regardless of where it's sold. A sheet of USG Sheetrock purchased at Home Depot is identical to one purchased at Lowes—same manufacturing specifications, same quality standards.

Store Brand Considerations

Both retailers occasionally stock house-brand or lesser-known manufacturer products at lower prices. When considering these alternatives:

• Verify the product meets ASTM C1396 standards
• Check for proper fire ratings if required
• Inspect for consistent thickness and edge quality
• Consider warranty coverage compared to major brands

For most residential applications, properly certified store-brand products perform identically to national brands at potentially lower cost.

Accessories and Supplies Pricing

A complete drywall project requires more than just sheets—joint compound, tape, screws, corner bead, and tools all contribute to total project cost. For a full breakdown of material and labor expenses, see our drywall installation cost guide. Comparing accessory pricing can reveal significant savings opportunities.

Joint Compound Comparison

Joint compound represents a significant accessory expense. Both retailers stock multiple options:

• All-purpose premixed: Similar pricing between stores, typically $15-20 per 4.5-gallon bucket
• Lightweight compound: Premium pricing, approximately 20-30% more than standard
• Setting-type compound: Pricing varies more; compare specific products

Bulk purchasing of joint compound often provides better per-unit pricing, and contractors should compare prices on cases of product versus individual containers.

Tape and Fasteners

Smaller accessories show price variation worth checking:

• Paper tape: Generally comparable between stores
• Mesh tape: Home Depot often has broader selection
• Drywall screws: Compare by box size—bulk boxes offer better value
• Corner bead: Metal corner bead pricing similar; vinyl options vary

Tool Considerations

If you need to purchase or rent drywall tools, compare prices for:

• Drywall T-squares and utility knives
• Taping knives and mud pans
• Drywall lifts (rentals often cheaper at local equipment rental stores)
• Screw guns and sanders

Price Matching Policies

Both Home Depot and Lowes have price matching policies that can help you secure the best available price without shopping multiple locations.

Home Depot Price Match Policy

Home Depot will match prices from local competitors, including Lowes. Key policy points:

• Must be identical item (brand, size, specifications)
• Competitor must be local retail store (online-only retailers excluded)
• Excludes clearance, closeout, and special order items
• Request price match at checkout or customer service

Lowes Price Match Policy

Lowes offers a similar price matching guarantee:

• Matches identical items from local competitors
• Some locations also match select online retailers
• Excludes limited-quantity promotions and special orders
• Available at point of sale or within 30 days of purchase

Using Price Matching Effectively

To maximize price matching benefits:

1. Check both stores' current prices before shopping
2. Bring competitor's advertisement or show on smartphone
3. Verify the products are truly identical (same SKU if possible)
4. Be prepared for manager approval on large price differences

Seasonal Sales and Promotions

Timing your purchase to coincide with sales events can yield substantial savings. Both retailers follow predictable promotional patterns.

Spring Building Season

March through May sees increased drywall demand as construction activity picks up. During this period:

• Prices may be firm due to strong demand
• Availability is generally excellent
• Memorial Day sales may offer modest discounts

Summer Promotions

Mid-summer often brings promotions as retailers compete for home improvement spending:

• July 4th sales typically include building materials
• Back-to-school period may see contractor-focused promotions

Fall Opportunities

As outdoor construction season winds down:

• Labor Day sales often discount building materials
• September-October can offer excellent pricing as demand decreases
• Retailers may discount to move inventory before year-end

Winter and Year-End

December and January present mixed opportunities:

• Year-end clearance may discount damaged or overstocked items
• New Year sales kickoff in January
• Inventory levels may be lower due to reduced manufacturing activity

Pro Programs and Loyalty Benefits

Both retailers offer professional programs that provide substantial benefits for frequent purchasers. Even serious DIYers may qualify and benefit from these programs.

Home Depot Pro Xtra

Home Depot's Pro Xtra program offers tiered benefits based on annual spending:

• Free to join: Basic benefits start immediately
• Volume pricing: Better prices at higher spending tiers
• Purchase tracking: Digital receipts and tax summaries
• Exclusive offers: Member-only pricing events
• Dedicated support: Pro-specific customer service

Lowes for Pros

Lowes' professional program provides similar benefits:

• Free enrollment: Open to contractors and frequent buyers
• Business tools: Quote management and purchasing history
• Volume discounts: Pricing improves with purchase volume
• Pre-loaded offers: Automatic discounts on selected products
• Extended returns: Longer return windows for business purchases

Credit Cards and Financing

Both retailers offer store credit cards with additional benefits:

• Special financing on large purchases (often 6-24 months interest-free)
• Additional percentage off purchases (typically 5%)
• Exclusive cardholder promotions

For large projects, the financing options alone can make one store preferable to the other based on your cash flow needs.

Regional Price Differences

Drywall prices vary significantly by geographic location due to transportation costs, local competition, and regional construction demand.

Proximity to Manufacturing

Gypsum board manufacturing facilities are concentrated in certain regions. Areas closer to these facilities generally enjoy lower prices:

• Southern states often have competitive pricing due to multiple regional plants
• Midwest markets benefit from central distribution
• Coastal areas may pay premium due to transportation distance
• Rural areas often see higher prices than metropolitan markets

Local Competition Impact

Markets with strong local building supply competition often have lower big-box prices:

• Areas with ABC Supply, 84 Lumber, or strong regional suppliers
• Markets with multiple drywall specialty distributors
• High-growth areas with intense contractor competition

In markets where Home Depot and Lowes face less competition, prices tend to be higher at both retailers.

Cost of Living Factors

General cost of living influences retail pricing:

• Higher real estate costs increase store operating expenses
• Higher wages in expensive markets affect pricing
• Local taxes and regulations impact final shelf prices

Tips for Getting the Best Price

Regardless of which store you choose, these strategies help minimize your drywall spending.

Before You Shop

• Calculate accurately: Use our drywall calculator to determine exact quantities
• Check both stores' prices online: Prices often display current in-store pricing
• Sign up for pro programs: Free to join with immediate benefits
• Review weekly ads: Both stores publish weekly promotions

At the Store

• Inspect drywall condition: Damaged sheets should be discounted or avoided
• Ask about price matching: Bring competitor prices
• Inquire about bulk pricing: Always ask even for medium quantities
• Check clearance areas: Occasionally find discounted building materials

Timing Strategies

• Shop during sales events: Holiday weekends often feature discounts
• Consider off-season: Fall and winter may offer better pricing
• End of month: Some stores have monthly targets affecting flexibility
• Track prices over time: Significant projects warrant watching prices for opportunities

Alternative Sources

Don't limit yourself to big-box stores:

• Drywall suppliers: Specialty distributors often beat retail pricing
• Lumber yards: Local building suppliers may compete aggressively
• Contractor surplus: Sometimes available from job site overages

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Home Depot or Lowes cheaper for drywall?

Neither store is consistently cheaper. Prices vary by product, location, and current promotions. The best approach is comparing prices for your specific products at both stores before purchasing. Use price matching policies to secure the lower price at whichever store is more convenient.

Do contractors get discounts on drywall?

Yes, both retailers offer professional programs with volume discounts. Home Depot Pro Xtra and Lowes for Pros provide tiered pricing based on annual spending. Additionally, both stores will often provide quotes with discounted pricing for large orders.

Should I buy drywall at big-box stores or specialty suppliers?

For small to medium projects, big-box stores offer convenience and competitive pricing. For large projects (whole-house or commercial), specialty drywall suppliers often provide better pricing, delivery options, and product expertise. Compare quotes from both sources for significant purchases.

Does either store offer free drywall delivery?

Both stores occasionally offer free delivery promotions, typically tied to minimum purchase amounts or during special sales events. Standard delivery fees range from $79-149 depending on location and order size. Pro program members sometimes receive delivery benefits.

Can I return unused drywall to Home Depot or Lowes?

Both stores accept returns of undamaged drywall within their standard return windows (typically 90 days). Keep your receipt and ensure sheets are in sellable condition. Some stores may refuse returns on large quantities or assess restocking fees, so confirm the policy before purchasing excess material.

Which store has better drywall quality?

Quality depends on the manufacturer, not the retailer. Both stores carry major national brands like USG Sheetrock and Gold Bond. A sheet from the same manufacturer and product line will be identical regardless of where purchased. Inspect individual sheets for damage before buying regardless of store.

Do prices include delivery?

No, listed prices are for in-store pickup only. Delivery is an additional service with separate fees. When comparing total cost, factor in delivery charges if you can't transport materials yourself.

Is it cheaper to buy drywall by the pallet?

Usually yes. Pallet pricing typically offers 5-15% savings over individual sheet pricing. A standard pallet contains 60-66 sheets. This makes economic sense for projects requiring 50+ sheets, accounting for some waste and contingency.