| Installing Drywall |
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Drywall is a common material extensively used in remodeling bathrooms and other areas of the home. Though it comes in sheets of 4 ft. X 12 ft., most do-it-yourselfers prefer sheets of 4 ft. X 8 ft. because it is easier to handle. Common thicknesses are 3/8 in. for walls and ½ in. for ceilings, though local building code dictates requirements. Building code also tells you where and how many drywall nails or screws are installed. Most drywallers install ceiling panels before wall panels; ceiling panels typically require more fasteners. Installing drywall is relatively easy. If you need to cut a sheet, first use a straight edge to score and cut the front, then bend the board back and score and cut the paper on the back. Here are basic installation steps: 1. Place the sheet of drywall tightly against the wall frame. 2. Use a pry bar to carefully lift the panel into place against the ceiling panel. 3. Nail or screw the drywall sheet into place attaching it to the wall studs at specified intervals. 4. Apply drywall joint compound (“mud”) in the channel at the joint between two sheets of drywall. 5. Apply drywall tape over the joint compound and smooth it with a drywall knife. 6. Apply a final coat of drywall joint compound over the drywall tape and smooth it. 7. Let the joint dry, then carefully sand it flat before texturing and/or painting the drywall.
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