First, before buying any drywall sheets, you should have an accurate measurement of the area that needs to be covered. Begin the measurements at the walls and ceilings first. Have a clear accounting foresight of how much one intends to spend in perspective with the expected expenses. The cost of the drywall in relation to the area that needs to be covered should at least fairly complement with the budget available. Determine specific products required and their costs, for achieving a particular installation purpose. For example, drywall corner beads may be preferred for a more "finished" look.
A must in any do it yourself drywall installation is to have the right tools available for use. Some of the important tools needed are a drywall saw, a carpenter's knife, a hammer and a screw gun. Protective sheets should also be used to cover the furniture and floors in the work area for protection against dust and other particles.
Keep safe in performing a do it yourself drywall installation. As protection against the dust, wear goggles for the eyes. Use a mask to cover the nose and protect the lungs. It will be better to work in a well-ventilated and well lit room. Wear thick, heavy gloves to protect the hands from the sharp tools.
After the necessary preparation, the first real step in a do it yourself drywall installation is the cutting of the drywall. With the unfinished side down, lay the drywall sheet on a clean flat surface. Measure and place the marks for correct cutting. To give space allowance to the extra gypsum at the edges and appropriate squareness, always cut 1/8 inch less than measured. A inch floor gap should also be observed to prevent water absorption or moisture in the floor level. In making the cut, break the paper surface and slightly cut into the gypsum.
In a do it yourself drywall installation, make sure that 'studs', or fastening materials are present in the inside corners and along the length of the joints. Install wooden studs if needed. Installation in the ceiling should be done first before working on the walls. This will ensure that the wall drywall will act as supports for the ceiling. Under the drywall, do not forget to put the much needed moisture barrier. This will greatly benefit the home's insulation system.
Use drywall screws instead of nails for strength reasons. Nails usually come out loose after several years. On walls, place the screws no longer than 16 inches apart. On the ceilings, the distance should be not longer than 12 inches apart. Then use the ever-reliable cordless driver to set the screws.
The final stages for the do it yourself drywall installation is the hanging and the finishing. Cover the joints between drywall panels with a joint compound after hanging. Finish off the drywall by applying more of this joint compound all over the entire wall or ceiling. The over all appearance should be uniform. The finishing depends on one's preference between the smooth and the textured type.
Drywall installation is not a complicated job to do. The steps are too easy you can do it yourself!