When using barricades for events or construction projects, you should always choose one type that provides the most benefits. In most cases, you can choose between temporary walls vs drywall, which offer the same level of security and enclosure for certain applications. But which barricade should you use?
In this article, we'll explore the key differences between temporary modular barricade walls and traditional drywall barricades. By comparing their durability, installation time, cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and branding opportunities, you'll gain insights to help you determine which solution best suits your next project.
What Are Drywall and Temporary Barricade Walls?
Drywall barricades are temporary walls built using traditional construction materials like metal framing and drywall sheets, similar to what's used for permanent containment walls in buildings. These barricades are typically constructed on-site to block off or section off areas during the construction or renovation process. While they provide a solid and secure barrier, drywall barricades are usually intended for single use because they are dismantled and discarded once the project is complete.
In contrast, temporary barricade walls are modular, freestanding panels engineered to safely enclose and separate areas during events, renovations, or construction projects. These barricades can be rapidly assembled, adjusted, and removed as needed, offering a flexible solution for evolving spaces. Modular barricades provide a secure and visually appealing barrier that can also feature custom graphics for branding or directions, enhancing the experience for clients and the public.
Temporary Construction Walls vs Drywall:
Deciding how to enclose your construction or renovation site is about much more than simply creating a barrier. However, what’s clear is that modular temporary walls offer clear advantages over traditional drywall, especially when it comes to speed, sustainability, flexibility, and overall project efficiency.
If you’re still deciding between temporary vs permanent construction barriers, below is a direct comparison of why modular barricades outperform drywall barricades:
How to Choose the Right Barricade Material for Your Project
Now that you know the pros and cons of drywall and temporary partitions, the next step is choosing the right one for your needs. Below are some of the ways to help you select the most suitable one:
- Consider Your Project Timeline
Evaluate how quickly you need your barricade installed and removed. If your project is on a strict schedule, modular barricade walls are often the best choice because they can be set up and dismantled in hours with minimal impact on daily business. Meanwhile, traditional drywall barricades require more time for construction and demolition, which extends project timelines. Always consider the urgency and duration of your project before making a decision.
- Assess Flexibility and Adjustability Needs
Consider whether your project will require adjustments to the barricade layout as work progresses. Modular barricade systems excel in environments where flexibility is key, as they can be quickly reconfigured or relocated to meet changing needs. Drywall barricades are less adaptable, often requiring demolition and rebuilding if changes are needed, adding unnecessary costs and delays.
- Evaluate Branding and Aesthetic Opportunities
If brand presence matters during construction, modular barricades are the clear choice. Their smooth, durable panels make graphics and signage look sharp and professional, showcasing your brand at its best. In contrast, drywall surfaces are more prone to damage and imperfections, which can make graphics appear less polished and diminish your visual impact.
- Factor In Sustainability Goals
Sustainability is an important concern for businesses and construction projects. Modular barricade walls are designed to be reusable and create minimal waste, aligning with eco-friendly initiatives and reducing landfill contributions. In contrast, drywall barricades are single-use and generate tons of debris after each project. Choose a barricade system that supports your company's environmental commitments.
- Review Cost and Budget Considerations
Examine initial and long-term costs. While installing drywall may seem less expensive up front, expenses can add up quickly due to labor, materials, and disposal fees. Modular barricades, thanks to their reusability and faster installation times, can be more cost-effective, reducing both direct costs and potential business downtime.
- Understand Site-Specific Challenges
When choosing a barricade, consider your unique site conditions, such as space limitations, building codes, weather, and foot traffic. Modular systems work well in most settings and provide solutions for tricky spaces, including curves, varying heights, and interior and exterior applications. Consult your barricade provider for custom options and expert guidance if your site presents unusual challenges.
Why You Should Highly Consider Temporary Walls
In most cases, clients prefer temporary modular wall systems, as they provide many benefits. In fact, companies like Boston Retail Solutions have already helped save over 17,500 tons of construction waste from ending up in landfills.
If you need more convincing about choosing drywall alternatives, below are several reasons to choose temporary wall panels:
- Fast and Hassle-Free Installation. Temporary walls provide rapid setup and removal, often requiring just a few hours to get your site secure and ready. This means less downtime for your business, a smoother transition during construction projects, and reduced labor costs.
- Adjustable and Adaptable. These barricades can be easily moved, resized, or reconfigured to match the changing needs of your project. Whether your layout needs to shift or you're phasing construction, temporary barricade walls provide maximum flexibility without the hassle of demolition and reconstruction.
- Sustainable and Waste-Reducing. Temporary barricade walls are reusable, which cuts down significantly on construction waste. Instead of throwing away materials after each project, like with drywall, these panels can be used repeatedly.
- Customizable for Branding and Messaging. Temporary barricade walls offer a prime opportunity to showcase your brand. Panels can be customized with graphics, logos, and wayfinding, turning a plain partition into valuable marketing space and enhancing the appearance of your project area.
- Minimal Disruption to Daily Operations. Because installation and removal are so efficient, temporary barricade walls help businesses stay open and operational without major interruptions. Crews can often work overnight or after hours, so customers and employees experience fewer disruptions.
- Clean, Professional Appearance. Temporary barricade walls are made to have a polished, modern look that maintains your property's professional atmosphere, even during construction or renovation projects. This helps ensure a positive impression for visitors, clients, and partners throughout your project.
Contact Boston Retail Solutions Today for Durable Temporary Barricade Walls
When it comes to durable, flexible, and visually impactful barricade walls, Boston Retail Solutions can be your trusted partner. We offer barricade solutions for shopping malls, airports, and large events. We also follow sustainability practices to minimize environmental impact and create a cleaner future. Once you’ve chosen your barricade type, you may work with our designers to create high-quality graphics to showcase your company’s branding.
Contact us right away to discuss your requirements and get started on making your spaces safer, smarter, and more appealing.