Can Homeowners Install Drywall on Their Own? 

by | Mar 31, 2022 | Drywall Repair

One of the most popular home construction materials out there is drywall. Nothing frames out a space like it.   

Before drywall was invented, most contractors use the process called lathing and plastering. Unfortunately, this process is extremely labor-intensive. That is why a lot of contractors prefer working with drywall. It provides a faster way to create walls for your interior.  

However, since contractors consider the process easy, can a regular homeowner lay down a couple of drywall sheets on their own? Can an average homeowner perform a complex flex drywall repair in Fairfax County VA? Here are a couple of things you should know: 

You Need Special Materials and Tools 

Of course, you can lay down drywall sheets with a razor knife and power drill. However, if you want to be efficient, you will need a lot of unique materials and tools.  

For example, having a drywall lifting machine can be extremely helpful if you are installing drywall on your ceiling. A rotary saw can also be very useful if you want to cut out holes for electrical outlets and cables.  

In addition to that, drywall taping and finishing require their own set of materials and tools.  

All of these things cost money. This means that instead of saving money by not hiring a professional, you’ll end up spending more.  

The Process is Extremely Tedious 

Keep in mind that contractors know what they’re doing. Because of this, they can efficiently and quickly lay down drywall without a problem. On several occasions, a professional will complete a 12-by-16-foot room in less than 60 minutes. On the other hand, experienced homeowners will complete the same project in 12 hours or more.  

However, what if you don’t have any experience working with drywall? If that is the case, you should expect to complete the job in 2 days or more.  

Laying down drywall is a multi-step process. Every step needs a lot of skills and the right equipment. There’s finishing the sheets, affixing the sheets, laying down the sheets, and cutting the sheets.  

Also, you will be measuring your walls and taking down electrical boxes, corners, doors, and windows. This will take a lot of time. 

Drywall Sheets are Heavy 

This is perhaps one of the most important factors to consider. Drywall sheets are extremely heavy and big. A regular ½-inch drywall sheet that measures 4’x8’ weighs almost 60 pounds.  

If you’re laying a sheet vertically at a body level, this won’t be an issue. However, you might have a hard time doing the job if you’re installing the drywall for your ceiling or upper walls.  

If you want to do it yourself, you’ll need a couple of individuals and a lot of ladders.  

Drywall Difficulty Level 

Compared to traditional lathing and plastering, it’s much easier to lay down drywall. On average, hiring a professional for drywall installation will cost you $1,800. Thus, you’ll save a lot if you do it yourself.  

Unfortunately, drywall installation isn’t a simple project for an average homeowner. It requires a lot of tools and experience.  

Common Challenges with Drywall

by | Oct 8, 2021 | Drywall Repair

Drywall is a great substitute for plaster walls. Aside from being affordable and convenient to install compared to plaster, drywall is easier to paint, more durable, and has excellent fire resistance as well.  

Unfortunately, there are also a couple of issues that drywall encounters as much as it’s a great option.  

Typically, it does not present issues if you regularly paint it, maintain it well, or install it with the help of the experts. However, it is still ideal to know more about the common challenges that drywalls face in your house.  

Fortunately, most of these problems can easily be fixed if you hire an Eastbay drywall repair in Milpitas CA. Still, you need to familiarize yourself with these issues so that you can take action as soon as you notice the signs.  

Painting 

Your drywall can take a bad hit if you constantly paint it using inconsistent paint strokes. This is one of the most common drywall issues that you should know early on. You’ve got to ensure you are stroking the brush in a uniform direction. Furthermore, make sure you provide every coat with enough time to dry before you apply a new layer.  

If you think you can’t properly paint your drywall, you should hire a professional painter for help. With this, you can avoid this issue and guarantee your drywall is painted properly.  

Mold and Moisture 

If your house has excessive moisture in the air or you’ve got leaking pipes beneath your drywall, you are in for a major problem. Keep in mind that the biggest weakness of drywall is moisture. If it is constantly wet, it can develop bubbles.  

On worst occasions, mold can develop on the drywall. If this occurs, there is nothing you can do about it. You cannot hide mold using paint. The only thing you can do is to replace your water-damaged drywall.  

Covering the Joints 

You will require a couple of panels if you are covering a big area using drywall. Every panel will need to connect. This is another challenge you will have to face.  

Every panel is connected to a wooden frame through studs on the frame. At first, you can connect adjacent panels using tape. However, you will need to apply a joint filler once you install all the panels. This will help guarantee that each panel is secured.  

Unfortunately, if you don’t apply the joint filler properly or you leave too much gap in between, the panel can come loose.  

On the other hand, if you attach the panels too close to each other without leaving a small gap, cracks can develop on the entire wall. Professionals recommend you leave at least 1/8 inches gap in between each panel. 

Sanding 

Before you can paint drywall, you will have to sand it. This is another challenge you’ll have to face. While drywall can be extremely durable, it is also delicate. You can damage it if you sand it too much.  

Fortunately, there are a lot of tips online on how to properly sand your drywall.