How to Hang Drywall by Yourself
Hanging drywall is an important skill that most homeowners will keep returning to over and over again when it comes to remodeling a house. With a small financial investment, you can significantly change the look of unfinished space. Successful drywall installation will depend on how you anchor the drywall panels to the framing members. Once you have mastered the technique of hanging drywall, you can finish rooms inexpensively.
Checking the Wall Studs
Before you start to hang your drywall, you will first need to check the studs and joists for any bows or twists. Finished walls look best when the studs are as flat as possible. Visually inspect both the studs or joists to see if they are aligned, to confirm this, hold a long, straight board or level across the framing, if you see any framing members sticking out, trim them with either a saw or a power planer. Then, fill in any low spots with shims attached with nails. Run the head of the hammer up and down the studs, to check for stray screws or nails that can impede the drywall.
Choosing a Drywall Fastener
Drywall is generally attached to framing with either drywall screws or nails. Drywall screws are the fastener of choice and have a fluted head that is designed to recess slightly below the surface of the drywall without actually breaking it, and coarse threads for the best hold in the gypsum. Screws can be driven in faster than nails, and have less chance of damaging the drywall; they also hold the drywall to the framing much better than nails.
Options for Driving in Screws
You can use the same process for screwing drywall panels on ceilings and walls. Screws will need to be driven below the surface of the drywall so they can be covered with joint compounds and sanded to a smooth surface. Never drive them in so deep that they tear the paper surface and damage the gypsum core. Once the paper has been torn, much of the holding power of the fastener will be lost.
To learn about the drywall installation services and products Killeen Drywall and Painting has to offer you, and if you live in or around the Killeen, TX region, please feel free to call us at (254) 284-1431 anytime.
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