How to Install Drywall

Gypsum board, or drywall, as it is commonly called, is the most commonly used interior wall material. If you ever plan on adding a partition wall or even patching a large hole in a wall, it is important to know the basics of how to work with it. Luckily, installing drywall is easily accomplished by most homeowners.

Drywall can be used as a base underneath paint, wallpaper, even tile. It is very brittle and has a white paper front and brown, heavier paper back. Always install drywall so the white paper faces outward. Also wear a face mask when cutting large amounts of drywall. The dust can cause breathing problems if you are exposed to large amounts over time.

To cut drywall, you will need a utility knife with a sharp blade and a straight edge or T-square. Carefully measure the piece you require and transfer those measurements onto the piece of drywall. Try to minimize cutting as much as possible by making use of the natural edges of the drywall. Unless cutting a patch, you always draw and cut from the front. Using a pencil and straightedge, connect these measurements to create an outline of the piece. You can also use a chalk line for this step.

Start by cutting the longest side. Using your utility knife and a straight edge, cut on your line from one end of the drywall to the other. Do not attempt to cut out a corner out of the larger piece. You want to heavily score the piece with your utility knife, but do not be surprised if it does not cut through more than an eighth of an inch.

Turn the piece of drywall over. Then bend back the side you have just cut to break the core of the drywall. Because of your score, it should break evenly. Then take your utility knife and cut through the brown paper backing while holding up the edge of the drywall. Using this technique will help guide your cut. Discard the waste.

Repeat this technique for the other side of the piece if needed. Before trying to install the drywall, look for any other holes you might have to cut into the piece. This includes holes to accommodate electrical outlets and light switches. If you do need to cut a hole in the drywall to accommodate one of these items, follow this technique.

Carefully measure where exactly the hole must be made in proportion to your patch. Using a straight edge and pencil, mark the exact location and size of the hole to be made on the front of the drywall. Next, bore a hole in one of the corners of the hole to be cut out. Using that hole to begin, use a drywall saw to cut out the hole. Go slowly if you have never used a drywall saw before. The force required to cut through drywall is far less than required for sawing through wood.

Before beginning to attach your panels to the studs, mark with a pencil the top and bottom of all of the studs. This will help you when attaching your drywall. Line up the piece so it rests on the floor and is flush with the piece beside it or a corner. Begin driving nails or screws into the studs to secure the drywall. It is best to work methodically, starting top to bottom, and attaching to one stud at a time. Space your nails or screws 6 inches apart, or as directed by your local code.

Consider what will be installed over the drywall, if anything. If it is something like cabinets or paneling, do not bother to fill in nail holes. If you are painting or installing wallpaper, however, it is important to carefully cover holes and tape joints.

Cutting and installing drywall is an easy task. If you ever have a large hole to repair, knowing how to work with drywall can save you the money spent on hiring a professional. Drywall is also inexpensive, so measure carefully but do not be afraid to make mistakes. Save badly cut pieces for the next job that requires patchwork.