When homeowners take on the task of hanging drywall there are tips on installing drywall that will make the process simpler and with a look of professionalism. Before beginning you should have the access to the proper tools for getting the job done correctly and efficiently.
The measurements are an important part of the process to avoid buying to much or having to make trips to the home improvement store for additional materials. Drywall can be purchased in several sizes and types. The basic size is four feet in width and either eight, ten or twelve feet long. For the individual not familiar with the drywall hanging process it is easier to use the eight foot boards. The thickness for walls is 1/2 inch and for ceilings should be 5/8 inch. If a bathroom or other area prone to moisture is being done there is a style known as green board which should be used for these areas.
To get the measurements needed, measure the complete area floor to ceiling and around entire perimeter. Square feet is the length times width so to find how many sheets of drywall are needed divide the total square feet by thirty two. This will give you the amount of four by eight sheets to purchase, get an extra one or two for errors. You will also need a screw gun, screws, drywall mud, a drywall knife, keyhole saw, drywall tape, mud pan, a six inch mud knife, eight inch mud knife, ten inch knife and sandpaper.
Before beginning the drywall work there should be an inspection done on the framing, electrical, insulation and plumbing. Begin with the ceiling and work down the wall when hanging drywall. The ceiling will require a jack or lift for ease in hanging a ceiling. Using the screw gun put a screw through the drywall into the frame every twelve inches. The screws should be in far enough to leave a recession to avoid popping out in later times.
Once the ceiling has been completed the walls will be hung from the top down. There will be a sturdier result if the drywall sheets are slightly staggered while putting up. When all boards have been hung there should be a 1/2 gap from the sub flooring. For electrical boxes and other cuts that require precision, use the keyhole saw.
After all the drywall has been hung the remaining part of this process is to do the finishing. Put corner bead on the corners either by using mud or screwing into place, it will depend on the style of beading you have purchased.
Next using the six inch knife apply a layer of compound over a seam then place the drywall tape over the mud. Using the six inch knife and light pressure slide the knife over the tape starting in the center and working up, then from center down. The knife should have slight pressure and lay almost flush against the wall. This pulls the mud from the center out through the tape to make it adhere and lay flat. Using the small knife fill in all screw holes. Allow to dry overnight.
On the following day you will be filling in the seams to provide an even surface. With the eight inch or a ten inch knife if eight was used to tape, start at the bottom of the wall and apply a layer of mud smoothly over the tape. It will be thick but, try to avoid excessive bulk. This will need to dry overnight. The next day you will sand and apply a skim coat. When sanding the seams avoid putting to much pressure on the sanding or it will go through to the tape. When all sanding is complete, using the ten inch or twelve inch knife, apply a fine layer of mud over the seams. During this step very little mud is used and most is removed, it is only to provide an extra smooth surface. Vacuum all dust in between coats and remember to wipe dust from walls prior to painting. These tips on installing drywall also apply to those who are hanging green board in moisture prone areas.
Discover those drywall suppliers in your area with the best prices. Finding local building materials should be something that is easily accomplished. Head online for tips today.
