Installing drywall on your own can be a complex and demanding project that involves several steps. It requires not only patience, but also a certain level of skill to achieve a professional finish.
In this blog, we will share our drywall crew’s pro tips on drywall installation to help you overcome common challenges, from measuring and cutting drywall sheets accurately to properly securing them in place and finishing with tape and joint compound.
Whether you are a novice or have some prior experience, our guidance will ensure that your drywall installation goes smoothly and results in a polished look for your space.
Drywall installation step #1: Inspect the framing
Defects in wall framing can lead to issues with alignment and creating smooth walls free of defects. If the framing isn’t perfect, be sure to correct issues, including:
- Misaligned studs
- Bowed wood
- Surfaces that are not flush
- Unstable studs
Drywall installation step #2: Measure the framing space for proper drywall installation
For seamless drywall installation, measuring the framing space to determine the right board length is a must. Keep in mind that the boards are installed horizontally.
You want longer boards whenever possible, so measure from the corners until you hit disruptions such as doorways and windows, or the end of the drywall board length. Continue on the other side of the disruption or from the end of each panel length until you reach the next corner.
Drywall installation step #3: Choose room-suitable drywall
Different drywall types are used for different rooms and applications, including as follows:
- Bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms: A mould and moisture-resistant drywall is best in rooms that are prone to moisture and humidity issues. Sometimes called “green board,” this drywall can prevent hazardous mould growth and manage limited water exposure.
- Shower walls and tub surrounds: Showers with high water exposure require DenShield, a substrate with a moisture barrier made specifically for high-moisture areas.
- Basements: Below-grade areas are more prone to moisture-related issues and require mould-resistant drywall. In some cases, basements might also require fire-rated drywall, depending on the basement’s configuration.
- Tiles and flooring: DenShield is also best for use on tiled surfaces such as floors, backsplashes, behind toilets and sinks, etc.
- Garages, stairwells, fireplaces, and furnace rooms: Various types of drywall are fire-rated based on how long they’ll stand up to fire. The ½” board is fire-rated for a half hour, ⅝” for 1 hour, and Type C drywall for 2 hours.
Drywall installation step #4: Measure
Use your measurements to mark the drywall so you have defined lines telling you where to cut. Be sure to deduct a ½” from the bottom boards, as you need to leave a gap between the bottom of the sheet and the floor.
Avoid unnecessary cuts so you can create a smoother finish and save time when cutting, installing the boards, and sealing the joints. Measure and mark cutouts needed for outlets, light sconces, receptacles, etc.
Drywall installation step #5: Cut your drywall
Starting with the board measured for the corner, use your markings to “score” the drywall using a T-square aligned along the outside of the board and a sharp utility knife. Gently cut the outer paper layer. Turn the board over and bend it towards you on the cutting line, and then cut the other side.
Drywall installation step #6: Hang the first piece of drywall
Take the board you cut for the top area at the corner and place it horizontally at a right angle to your wall framing. To make it easier to hold the board, you can drill in 1 ¼” bugle head screws at the top, the centre, and bottom before filling in the rest spaced 12″ to 16″ apart.
Drywall installation step #7: Continue installing boards
Make your way around the room, ensuring the boards are spaced with a small ⅛” gap to allow for expansion. On long walls, stagger the boards to create T-shaped seams around the room.
Always align rough-cut edges to rough cuts and sealed seams to sealed seams as you work. As mentioned, the bottom boards will need a ½” gap between the floor and drywall to avoid bumps and accommodate expansion and shrinking.
Drywall installation step #8: Pre-fill joints and apply joint compound and tape
Before applying tape, start by pre-filling all factory and butt joints using Sheetrock or Durabond. This ensures the drywall is properly secured and any gaps are filled for a solid base.
Once the pre-fill has set, use a taping compound to cover the screw holes and joints, wiping away any excess as you go. Place drywall tape over the wet mud in the joints, pressing it into place with your finger every foot or so. Then, use a straight-edged knife to embed the tape smoothly into the compound.
Drywall installation step #9: Apply a second coat of compound
Use a finishing compound, cover the tape lightly, so the tape is still visible. Allow it to dry completely before sanding. Sanding should never be skipped as it helps create a smooth surface while making it easier to spread the final layer of compound.
Drywall installation step #10: Apply the final coat of compound
Continue applying the finishing compound to the joints, trying to remove excess as you work. Allow it to dry completely before sanding away any imperfections. Feel for bumps and ridges as you work to achieve a smooth surface that’s ready for paint primer.
Drywall Installation Tips
To help perfect your drywall installation technique, use the following tips from our drywall crew:
- Go easy on the compound: Excess compound can moisten the tape, which increases the risk of tears while you work.
- All-purpose compounds: You can consider using an all-purpose compound for convenience, but it doesn’t always see the best results.
- Switch up your knives: When applying compound, you can switch up your knives to make each layer easier. A 2″ to 4″ straight edge is ideal for the first coat and for getting the compound into the joints. A 10″ to 12″ knife is best for the final coats and larger areas. For patch jobs or screw holes, use a 6″ straight edge, and invest in a corner knife to get smooth, even corners.
- Doors and windows: It’s best to avoid joints over doors and windows, as they can lead to cracks. Instead, cut a larger piece of drywall so it hangs over either side of the opening.
- Sink drywall screws: To avoid popping, be sure to sink your screws slightly so you can fill the dents with compound and create a smooth surface.
- Use a resilient channel: A resilient channel helps level up the ceiling when there are minor deviations.
- Reduce noise: To keep your space quiet, consider using Sonopan to reduce noise transmission from floor to floor and room to room.
Following these steps and tips from our drywall crew will help create smooth walls free of imperfections, reduce the risk of cracks and popping, and make your drywall installation process easier.
How to Find a Drywall Contractor Near Me
If you’re not ready to tackle a DIY drywall installation, call Ontario Drywall And Taping (ODT) at 647-878-4466. You can also click here to reach out to our expert drywall crew to set up a free quote today.
