Updated October 2, 2025
In Part 1 of this series, we explored the key factors in choosing prefabricated modular walls — from project timelines to compliance and cost. In Part 2, we’ll go deeper, comparing drywall with modular wall systems to reveal the hidden costs, risks, and opportunities that should guide your decision.
The Problem with Drywall as ‘Temporary’
Drywall has been used for decades as a quick solution to create temporary spaces — but it was never designed to be temporary. Each project requires new material, messy installation, and demolition waste when the job is done.
The hidden costs of drywall include:
- Labor-intensive setup and teardown
- Waste disposal fees and landfill impact
- Disruption from noise, dust, and debris
- Failure to meet ICRA standards in healthcare environments
Tip: Drywall may look cheaper upfront, but project after project, it’s the least efficient option.
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The Case for Modular Wall Systems
Industry-leading prefabricated modular walls offer a better way forward: reusable, durable systems that save time and money across multiple projects.
Advantages of STARC modular wall systems:
- Reusable hundreds of times: reduced lifetime cost
- ICRA Class IV/V compliant for healthcare projects
- Faster installation: 100 linear feet in under an hour
- Noise reduction up to 50%
- One-hour fire-rated (FireblockWall™)
These systems deliver a professional appearance while minimizing disruption in sensitive environments like hospitals, airports, data centers, and other commercial spaces.
Comparing Temporary Wall Systems
At the jobsite, dust containment isn’t optional. The right temporary wall system protects building occupants, keeps projects compliant, and minimizes disruption — all while keeping schedules on track.
For construction managers, the choice of dust wall solution directly affects project budgets, timelines, and even client satisfaction. Low-quality barriers like plastic sheeting or disposable systems may appear cost-effective upfront, but they fail quickly and undermine professionalism.
When evaluating modular wall systems, consider:
- Speed of setup — can barriers be deployed and reconfigured in hours, not days?
- Durability & reusability — will the system perform across multiple projects without degrading?
- Noise & dust control — is it engineered to protect occupants and meet infection prevention requirements?
- Professional appearance — does it reflect the standard of care your client expects?
- Compliance — does it meet ICRA and fire safety standards where required?
STARC’s RealWall™, LiteBarrier™, FireblockWall, and StackBarrier™ are engineered to outperform drywall and disposable dust walls across every one of these categories—giving construction managers a reliable, professional solution project after project.
The Long-Term Value of Modular Walls
When factoring in labor, disposal costs, compliance risks, and delays, temporary drywall simply doesn’t compete. Reusable modular wall systems are a long-term investment that protect budgets, schedules, and reputations.
Next Steps
This concludes our two-part series on choosing prefabricated modular walls. To explore real-world examples and project applications, check out our industry-specific resources for healthcare, airports, data centers, and other commercial spaces.
Stop paying for drywall again and again. Explore STARC’s modular wall systems and see why leading contractors and facilities managers trust our solutions.