Drywall, also known as plasterboard and sheetrock, is the preferred material for walls and ceilings in modern construction. Installing drywall requires skill and knowledge to ensure the finished result is smooth, strong, and paintable. It’s a labor-intensive job, but with proper preparation and best practices, you can make it easier for yourself or your contractors. This Drywall Installation Guide outlines the steps to take when installing drywall, whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring professionals.
Prior to beginning a drywall project, make sure the area is clear and that your tools are handy. Preparing your workspace is important to help ensure that your drywall installation goes smoothly and quickly, especially when working with large sheets of drywall. This means clearing out the space as much as possible or covering furniture to protect it from dust and debris. It’s also a good time to check for any wall damage or structural issues that might require attention.
Once your workspace is ready, begin with the first drywall panel. For ceilings, position the first drywall sheet tightly against the ceiling and against one wall. Have a friend or a drywall lift hold it in place while you drive 1-1/4-inch screws into the studs on each side of the wallboard, starting at a point near the center of the panel and working outward to the ends. Be careful not to screw into any electrical boxes.
Next, hang the remaining drywall panels, keeping in mind that you will need to leave a gap around windows and doors. It’s also a good idea to stagger seams. This will help strengthen the wall and ensure that you don’t end up with a seam where two adjacent panels meet. It will also make it easier to conceal the joint with tape and mud.
When it’s time to cut a drywall panel to size, measure and mark the line with a utility knife or drywall saw. Use the saw to score the marked line, snap the drywall along this line, and then cut through the backing paper. This step is critical to ensure straight, clean cuts that will facilitate easy drywall installation and create a professional-looking finish.
Lastly, finish the outside corners of your drywall with metal corner bead. Use a hammer and nails to firmly fasten the bead to the framing.
When installing drywall, a common mistake is driving screws too deeply and tearing the paper. This compromises the hold of the screw and can cause cracking later on. Another common mistake is failing to properly sand or tape the joints. The right technique will save you a lot of trouble and give your drywall a flawless finish.
