How to Install Ceiling Drywall
Inspect the area for any obstructions, such as electrical wires, ductwork, or protruding pipes., Mark the wall studs to indicate the locations of the ceiling joists for reference during the installation process., Build a T-Brace, if necessary., Hang...
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Inspect the area for any obstructions
Install furring strips to the framing in order to create a flat, even surface for drywall installation around these obstacles. -
Step 2: such as electrical wires
You'll also want to mark the placement of light fixtures and electrical boxes. , This will provide the leverage and support needed to raise the drywall panels to the ceiling when you're working alone.
Use a 2 foot (60.96 cm) piece of 1 by 4 (2.54 by
10.16 cm) and nail it to a 2 by 4 (5.08 by
10.16 cm) that is long enough to be 1 foot (30.48 cm) higher than the length from the floor to the ceiling. , Raise the first sheet to the ceiling so you can get an idea of the placement across the joists. , Drywall adhesive dries within 15 minutes, so you'll want to be ready. , Make sure that the tapered edges of the sheet are facing the floor. , The tapered edges are designed to make the process of taping and mudding easier. , The heads of the fasteners you choose should come in contact with the paper facing, sinking in slightly without breaking through the paper. , Along the interior joist, install the fasteners at about 12 inch (30.48 cm) increments. , This will enforce the stability. , Use a straightedge to help guide your utility knife as you cut.
Tip the panel off of the floor or table at a slight angle, then push it down to break it in half.
Use the utility knife to cut through the paper backing. , Score the line with the knife first, then cut deeper with the second pass. , Use a rotary drill to cut out a border for the fixture or vent, and then fully attach the board. , -
Step 3: ductwork
-
Step 4: or protruding pipes.
-
Step 5: Mark the wall studs to indicate the locations of the ceiling joists for reference during the installation process.
-
Step 6: Build a T-Brace
-
Step 7: if necessary.
-
Step 8: Hang the drywall
-
Step 9: starting in the corner
-
Step 10: where you can use a full sheet.
-
Step 11: Wait until you know where you're placing each sheet before you apply any adhesive to the joists.
-
Step 12: Using your T-brace
-
Step 13: or a friend to assist you
-
Step 14: raise the first sheet of drywall to the ceiling and slide it snugly into the corner.
-
Step 15: Continue along the first wall
-
Step 16: always ensuring that the tapered edges abut one another and are facing down.
-
Step 17: Affix the drywall sheets permanently to the ceiling joists using either nails or screws.
-
Step 18: Drive the fasteners in 3/8 inches (0.95 cm) away from the edges of each sheet
-
Step 19: and space them 7 inches (17.78 cm) apart along the perimeter.
-
Step 20: Start the second row with a half sheet of drywall in order to stagger the seams.
-
Step 21: Measure and mark the cut line at the vertical midpoint of the drywall sheet.
-
Step 22: Trim the dry wall's length by first marking the line with chalk.
-
Step 23: Install panels over vents or light fixtures loosely at first.
-
Step 24: Complete the entire ceiling installation before moving on to the walls.
Detailed Guide
Install furring strips to the framing in order to create a flat, even surface for drywall installation around these obstacles.
You'll also want to mark the placement of light fixtures and electrical boxes. , This will provide the leverage and support needed to raise the drywall panels to the ceiling when you're working alone.
Use a 2 foot (60.96 cm) piece of 1 by 4 (2.54 by
10.16 cm) and nail it to a 2 by 4 (5.08 by
10.16 cm) that is long enough to be 1 foot (30.48 cm) higher than the length from the floor to the ceiling. , Raise the first sheet to the ceiling so you can get an idea of the placement across the joists. , Drywall adhesive dries within 15 minutes, so you'll want to be ready. , Make sure that the tapered edges of the sheet are facing the floor. , The tapered edges are designed to make the process of taping and mudding easier. , The heads of the fasteners you choose should come in contact with the paper facing, sinking in slightly without breaking through the paper. , Along the interior joist, install the fasteners at about 12 inch (30.48 cm) increments. , This will enforce the stability. , Use a straightedge to help guide your utility knife as you cut.
Tip the panel off of the floor or table at a slight angle, then push it down to break it in half.
Use the utility knife to cut through the paper backing. , Score the line with the knife first, then cut deeper with the second pass. , Use a rotary drill to cut out a border for the fixture or vent, and then fully attach the board. ,
About the Author
Brittany Hayes
Writer and educator with a focus on practical organization knowledge.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: