How to Hang Drywall in the Proper Direction
Drywall installation is an art form, meaning hanging it in the right direction will make a world of difference with regards to the quality, strength, and appearance of the job.
How to Hang Drywall: Vertical or Horizontal?
On commercial jobs, local fire codes will often dictate seams to fall on the length of the framing, so drywall has to be installed vertically. However, with residential work, the drywall on walls is often hung horizontally. For walls that are 9 feet high or less, hanging the drywall horizontally has numerous benefits.
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Less seams: Horizontal hanging significantly reduces the lineal footage of seams by approximately 25%. Which in turn keeps the footage of the seams to a minimum, meaning less taping and a better more professional-looking job.
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Hides uneven studs: Hanging horizontally will allow the drywall to flow over the framing so bowed studs are less of a problem. If the drywall is hung vertically and a seam is screwed to a bowed out stud, the seam is magnified because of the bow in the wall.
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Easier to finish: A horizontal seam is easier to finish uniformly when compared to a vertical seam, this requires a great deal of reaching and bending to finish. Also, remember that drywall comes in long lengths so most of the walls can be covered with just one length.
How to Hang Drywall: Perpendicular or Parallel?
More often hanging drywall on ceilings should be done perpendicular to the joists. Even though you need to avoid butted seams, the occasional butt seam is preferable to a ridged seam that runs the length of the ceiling or starts to sag between joists. Hanging drywall perpendicular is a good idea because:
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Less-visible seams: A perpendicular installation allows each drywall sheet to float over the framing members, which in turn makes uneven joists or trusses blend in. If the framing is off when the drywall is hung perpendicular, simply cut back the panel to the previous framing member, which is not possible when hanging the drywall in a parallel position.
If you would like to make an appointment for drywall installation, please contact Killeen Drywall and Painting at (254) 284-1431 now, if you live in the Killeen, TX region.
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