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 The hardest part of hanging drywall (sometimes called by the brand name "Sheetrock" or just plain "rock") is getting it from the store to your basement! If you don't have a helper available, see if the store will deliver! It will be worth it- even if there's an extra charge!
Drywall installation tips
- Although most pros install drywall horizontally, it's better for many DIYers to install it vertically. This will allow you to use the tapered edges of the board for your seams, and will make it much easier to finish than if you butt the short ends of the board (which are not tapered) together.
- If you decide to hang the drywall horizontally, use the longest sheet you can fit in your basement. This will minimize the number of seams. Also, be sure to stagger the joints between the top and the bottom rows.
- If you're drywalling the ceiling, make sure you do it first. Then hang the drywall on the walls.
- Make sure you use the correct length and type of screw to secure the drywall to your framing. For ½" drywall use
1 ¼" coarse thread drywall screws.
- If you're using metal studs make sure you get "self tapping" screws made for metal framing.
- Make sure you sink the screws slightly below the surface of the drywall- WITHOUT ripping the paper.
- Unless you have a drywall drill, buy a drywall dimpler (about $2.50 at Lowe's) to attach to your regular drill. This will help you sink the screws to the proper depth without ripping the surface paper.
- Carefully plan the layout of your drywall so the edges of the sheets will hit the studs. Otherwise, you'll have to add studs at the ends of the sheets, or cut the drywall to hit the studs.
- Don't install drywall with the tapered edge of a sheet on an outside corner of a wall. It will make it more difficult to finish the corner when it comes time to mud and sand.
- If you decide to use screws and glue, make sure you open all the windows! The glue produces harmful vapors, and is pretty nasty stuff!
Be sure to check out How to hang drywall: A step by step guide, and check on my progress. Don't miss these additional sections for tips on how to hang drywall:
Additional drywalling resources:
How to hang drywall - A step-by-step guide to hanging drywall.
How to cut drywall - For the basic, straight cuts.
How to cut around openings and outlets - For cutting around switch boxes, outlets, light fixtures and other tricky areas.
How to finish drywall - Learn to finish drywall like an expert by seeing how an expert finishes drywall!
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