The Best Tips for Hanging Drywall
Are you planning a home renovation project and looking for ways to reduce costs by doing some of the work yourself? Learning how to hang drywall can be a great money-saving skill and a valuable part of any remodeling project.
Installing drywall is not as difficult as many people think. You don’t need professional construction experience to get started. With the right tools, a bit of strength, and some practical drywall installation tips, you can successfully complete the job yourself. Taking on drywall installation during a renovation can significantly reduce labor costs.
Basement renovations, in particular, are large projects that often come with budgeting challenges, unexpected delays, and plenty of stress. Doing some of the work on your own can help manage expenses while giving you more control over the project.
How to Hang Drywall
1.) Choose Smaller and Lighter Drywall Sheets
Consider purchasing lighter 4 x 8-foot drywall sheets instead of larger sizes. Larger 4 x 12 sheets are extremely heavy and difficult to move without extra help or equipment.
Smaller sheets are easier to handle and install, especially for DIY projects.
Keep in mind that smaller sheets may create more seams, which means additional taping, mudding, and sanding later. However, the easier handling often makes them the better option for homeowners.
2.) Buy Enough Drywall Screws
Running out of screws in the middle of a project can quickly become frustrating. Before starting, make sure you purchase enough drywall screws for the entire job.
For walls with 16-inch stud spacing, you’ll typically need around 36 screws for each 4 x 8 sheet of drywall.
3.) Consider Hanging the Drywall Yourself
You may want to get separate estimates from drywall contractors — one for hanging the drywall and another for taping and finishing.
Installing the drywall panels yourself can save a substantial amount of money, especially in large spaces like basements.
Hanging drywall on walls is usually manageable for most DIY homeowners, but ceiling installation is more challenging. For ceiling work, you may need help from a friend or consider renting a drywall lift to safely support the panels during installation.
4.) Use a Drywall Carrying Handle
Drywall sheets can be bulky, awkward, and difficult to carry, even lightweight versions.
A drywall carrying handle is an inexpensive tool that makes lifting and moving sheets easier and more comfortable.
5.) Hire a Professional for Taping
Drywall taping and finishing require skill and experience to achieve smooth, professional-looking walls.
While some people learn these techniques through experience, hiring a professional finisher for larger projects can save time and deliver better results.
Professionals often complete taping and finishing much faster and with a smoother final appearance.
6.) Consider Doing the Sanding Yourself
If you’re trying to cut costs, sanding may be a good DIY task to handle yourself.
Sanding mainly involves smoothing rough areas and removing high spots before painting.
Use a sanding block and lightly sand the surface. One of the most common mistakes is sanding too aggressively. You do not need to remove all of the joint compound — only smooth the surface enough for painting and priming.
A simple way to check your work is by running your hand over the wall. If the surface feels smooth and free of bumps or ridges, it is ready for paint.
7.) Ensure Proper Ventilation and Safety While Sanding
Drywall sanding creates a large amount of fine dust, so proper ventilation and protective equipment are extremely important.
Use fans, a sanding vacuum system, or an air filter whenever possible. Adding a drywall dust filter to your shop vacuum can also help reduce airborne dust.
Always wear a respirator or high-quality dust mask along with protective eyewear while sanding.