How to Work With Drywall
Techniques and tricks that are used in drywall construction can be invaluable, especially for amateurs or DIY enthusiasts. Even unskilled homeowners can learn some helpful tips about the process and enjoy a less troublesome project. The techniques learned here will cover storage and preparation for hanging drywall. From there, joints and hanging methods are covered too.
Storage and Preparation
First of all, drywall or sheetrock will need to be stored laid in flat stacks, and not up against the wall on its edges. The reason behind this is you do not damage the edges. The gypsum core of drywall does crumble easily especially when undue stress is placed on it. Before you start to hang drywall, you will need to make an assessment of the quality and arrangement of the stud placement in the room it will be hung.
A well-framed room must have studs that are spaced exactly 16 inches on the center. They must also be perfectly plumb and parallel with one another. Measure the dimensions of the walls and ceiling so you can determine how many full sheets you will be able to hang. One sheet hung vertically should cover four studs or horizontally cover seven.
Vertical or Horizontal
There is still a great deal of debate as to which of these two methods is better. For example, if a room is exactly 8 feet from floor to ceiling, then two sheets that are hung horizontally should fit perfectly. But, you will be left with butt joints between side-by-side sheets that will be harder to finish. An 8-foot ceiling height works with vertically hung drywall, for it comes in 4×8 foot sheets. Hung vertically, you are only dealing with bevel joints that are easier to finish.
If you live in or around the Mobile, AL area and need drywall construction, please feel free to call McDermott Contracting today at (251) 215-8005 to find out what I can offer you.