Home Guide to White Picket Fences

Tweet

Many people like to take up drywall installation as a home improvement project if that is something that needs to be done of course. If you have done this before, it shouldn’t take you too long depending on the severity of the damage. However and furthermore, first timers should seek some guidance and tips on the best way to put up and install drywall. If you have never done this before, you do not want to start cutting into your wall unless you have had some initial training first. You could be on the verge of compounding the problem.

1. 1.Planning Ahead

   Building codes specify the thickness and type of drywall you can use in your home. Permits may not be required if you are replacing existing drywall, but for new installations these are usually a must.

   Building codes specify the thickness and type of drywall you can use in your home. Permits may not be required if you are replacing existing drywall, but for new installations these are usually a must. The best thing to do is check with your local building authorities before you start work.

2. 2.Starting Out Right

   Typically, drywall installation should take up only a maximum of three days. The process can be completed even faster with the right materials, the right tools, and some assistance from a friend or family member.

3. 3.Tools

   There is a wide range of tools for you to choose from when installing drywall. Thin, lightweight knives are recommended for a first-timer while the more experienced can choose to use trowels. The disadvantage with using trowels is that their weight makes them unwieldy and it will be difficult for amateurs to handle it. You will also need paper tape or self-adhesive mesh tape though the latter is more suited to professional installers. A drywall saw, screwdriver, and hammer are some other tools you may need.

 

4. 4.Cutting the Drywall

   When cutting the drywall as per the required dimensions, you can lay it flat on the floor which will make it easier to handle. Mark the length that your require and cut along the pencil marks with a drywall saw. If you have to make holes in the drywall for electrical outlets or switches, you may need to use a keyhole saw. The openings will first have to be marked out clearly and accurately. Once you have all the drywall panels cut out to your specified and needed dimensions, you can start putting them up one after another.

5. 5.Installation Tips

   Your aim when installing drywall should be to have as few joints as possible. This can be achieved through both horizontal and vertical installation. Horizontal installations are recommended for ceilings that are less than 8 feet in height and those over this should have drywall installed vertically. This will help keep the number of joints to a minimum. You may need to install a double layer of drywall in some places such as when there is need to sound proof or fireproof a particular section.

6. 6.On Ceilings

   Drywall must be applied to the ceiling at right angles to the joists. This is where you might need some assistance as the drywall must be held in place and doing this alone can be a problem. The drywall on the ceiling should be secured with double the number of nails or screws to ensure it stays up. If using nails, don’t hit the nails too hard since it may lead to damage.

7. 7.On Walls

   If you are putting up the drywall horizontally, all the top boards must be installed first. It must be placed firmly up against the ceiling and then lightly affixed with screws or nails. The drywall will be first attached to the metal or wood studs in your building. You must remember that if you have metal studs, screwing in the drywall can be a little difficult. A screw gun may be essential and the spacing between screws should be about four inches.

8. 8.Finishing

   Once the drywall is put up it has to be taped, sanded, and finished. So you will need to apply joint compound on every seam or joint of the drywall. Then, the tape is placed all along the joints. A second coat of joint compound should then be applied on this which will seal the drywall tape in. After this dries, the third and last coat is applied and let to dry overnight or even more. Then, all you have to do is sand it down till it is smooth and even.

    

   Following these tips and guidelines can help even an amateur install drywall like they have been doing this for years; like this is just another routine project for them.