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Installing Drywall

Project Overview

Make dreaded dry walling an easy event. Try to purchase sheets of the same length as the wall. Hang the sheets with the longest edge parallel to the floor so you cut down on taping and compound. This method also provides more strength because each board ties more studs together and the drywall's strongest dimension bridges irregularities like warped studs. When you are taping you'll find the seam is at a convenient height—you don't have to bend over to apply mud as you would for vertical seams.

Step 1

PURCHASE SHEETS AND POSITION ON WALL

At first, hanging drywall seems self-evident. You put the stuff up, and then drive screws through it. But, like most things in life, you have a choice between working longer and working smarter. The smartest thing you can do isn't self-evident for most people. If possible, buy sheets the same length as the wall. (If necessary, buy sheets a bit longer, then trim them to length.) When you hang the sheets, position them with the longest edge parallel to the floor. Start at the top of the wall: If a sheet needs to be trimmed to height, it's at floor level and much easier to haul back to the sawhorses.

Step 2

HANG SHEETS PARALLEL TO FLOOR

Plenty of good reasons exist for hanging the sheet parallel to the floor: To start with, it cuts down on the taping and compound (also called mud by many) you have to apply along the seams. Because taping and mudding are the most miserable part of the job, horizontal seams are best. They cut taping by as much as 25 percent. This installation is also stronger because each board ties more studs together and because the drywall's strongest dimension bridges irregularities like warped studs. When you are taping you'll find the seam is at a convenient height—you don't have to bend over to apply mud as you would for vertical seams.

Step 3

CENTRE SHORT EDGE OF THE PANELS

Other hints: Centre the short edge of the panels on the joists so that you have something to attach the next panel to. Screws hold better than nails, which tend to pop out as the wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity. Last but not least, avoid forcing a panel in place. Even if it survives without cracking, something is guaranteed to go wrong in the near future. A joint will pop open somewhere, or a section may break loose of its screws. To get the best fit, trim drywall with a utility knife. You can take small amounts off the edges with a coarse rasp.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Beginner

Time: 2 hours

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

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