Finishing the Interior of Your Garage or Shop? Here’s What to Know

When it comes to finishing the interior of your shop or garage, there are three main options for material people typically consider:

1. Drywall

2. Plywood or OSB

3. Metal liner panel

Each has its pros and cons, but in most cases—especially for active workspaces—metal liner is the clear winner.

Metal Liner Panels

This is our top recommendation and what we install most often. Metal liner is fire-resistant, making it ideal for shops where welding, grinding, or cutting happens. It’s also waterproof and easy to clean—you can even pressure wash it. Plus, the ribbed profile helps reduce echo compared to smooth surfaces.

Plywood / OSB

Some customers prefer plywood, especially when they want to hang shelves or tools directly on the wall. We’ve done installs with plywood halfway up and metal above, which can be a good compromise. Full plywood interiors, however, tend to amplify sound and aren’t as moisture-resistant. They’re also harder to clean and maintain.

Drywall

We rarely recommend drywall for garages or shops. It’s not very durable, doesn’t handle moisture well, and gets dirty easily. The only reason to use it would be to meet a specific fire rating, in which case it can be installed behind metal panels to keep the clean look and add protection.

Other Options

PVC wall liners like Truss Core are another option to consider. They’re waterproof and easy to clean like metal, though we haven’t worked with them as much. Still, they’re a solid choice depending on your project needs.

If you’re planning to finish your garage or shop, we’d be happy to walk you through the best options for your space and how you’ll be using it. Reach out anytime—we’re here to help.