There are many advantages to hiring a professional drywall installer. Whether you want a new kitchen or bathroom, drywall is a great way to add a touch of class to your home. It can also save you money on the cost of a renovation. However, DIY drywall installation can be dangerous and involves mistakes. It is also more time consuming and requires more expert tools. Plus, DIY drywall installations will likely result in a lower quality finished product.
A skilled handyman knows how to tape and mud drywall joints correctly. To achieve a smooth finish, mud is used to fill gaps, cracks, and creases. The mud should be smooth and free of lumps. Make sure to use a metal spackle knife to apply the mud evenly to the surfaces. Once the compound is applied, it is important to allow enough time for the joint to dry completely. Otherwise, the mud will bubble up.
If the drywall board is not full length, it is important to place it at the middle of the joist. A lift will help you place it correctly, but it is best to use two assistants to help. If the board doesn’t fit flush with the wall, make sure to place one end of it against the adjacent wall or ceiling board. Once it is in position, use drywall screws to secure the board. If the board is not centered properly, you may not have enough space to screw it in.
If you are on a tight budget, you may need to compromise on the quality of the drywall installation. However, a basic drywall installation can cover exposed timber. The basic cost for this type of installation is around $0.40 to $0.65 per square foot, which is about two-thirds of the price of hiring a professional. Additionally, you’ll also save on the cost of joint compound and paper tape. Additionally, drywall installation requires the use of outside corner beads, screws, and paper tape.
If you’re tackling the project yourself, you should start by measuring the area you’re going to cover. This will make it easier to cut the drywall sheets properly. A tape measure is useful for this, but you’ll also need a drywall square. The square is like a woodworking square and is typically 48 inches long. You should also use a utility knife to score the drywall before cutting. This knife is a flat blade that has a flat edge, so you can score the drywall before cutting.