5 Simple Tips for Hanging Drywall Like a Pro

Hanging drywall requires precision and great strength. Installing sheetrock involves heavy lifting, but you should be up for the task as long as you’re in good physical health. You’ll also need to understand your project and utilize the proper tools. Hanging drywall like a pro can be easy if you follow these five simple steps.

Determine Your Drywall Thickness

Drywall is gypsum plaster pressed between heavy paper, dried, and cut into panels or sheets. Contractors often refer to drywall as plasterboard, wallboard, or sheetrock. Installing drywall is much simpler than the old way of installation—the previous process involved wood lath and an expert plasterer.

Drywall gives your home smooth and flat interior walls. Keep in mind that it comes in different dimensions and thicknesses, and certain measurements are better for specific jobs. Before you start hanging your drywall, determine the thickness, length, and number of panels you will need.

Prepare for Hanging

Before hanging the first panel, measure the boards and cut them to fit the wall. Pro tip: measure twice, cut once. Place the light side face-up, draw an even line, and use your utility knife to score the panel deep enough to cut through the paper and halfway into the core.

Snap the panel downward away from the cut to make a clean edge, then line the board up on the wall where you plan to hang it. Use a pencil to mark the position of your studs on the sheetrock before installation.

Use an Adhesive and Screws

Hold the panel in place with an adhesive before driving screws into the sheetrock. Position your first sheet horizontally across the ceiling while firmly pressing the board against a wall, creating a 90-degree angle. Use a screw gun and screws to help solidify the framing and prevent damage to the paper. Drive the screws along the outer edges of the panel. Start at the edge nearest the ceiling and work from the center outward. The screw gun makes for a quick and efficient installation job.

Cut Openings for Windows and Doors

Be sure to accommodate window and door openings. Center the joints where the panels meet around the openings horizontally and vertically rather than at the corners—this will prevent cracks from forming around the corners. Remove the window trim for precise measuring and cut an opening in the sheet before hanging it. Using specialized drywall tools and accessories will help you make an exact cut every time.

Frame the Outside Corners

When you create corners with drywall, make sure the edges where the panels meet are straight and clean. Follow these steps to ensure accuracy:

1. Cut a piece of drywall with a little extra length so it hangs over the corner.
2. Hang the adjoining panel, also with extra length, but trim it tight to create a well-fitted corner.
3. Protect the corners with a metal corner bead; hold it tight against the ceiling and nail the beads in with drywall nails, not screws.

At Timothy’s Toolbox, we provide you with many tips and tricks to hang and tape drywall like a real pro. For more information, please visit our website.