How to Install Ceiling Drywall: 14 Steps (with Pictures …

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Installing ceiling drywall is a very simple process, but can be slightly challenging when working alone. By making a few minor adjustments, almost anyone can accomplish this task on their own. Here are a few steps to help you along as you learn how to install ceiling drywall.

1

Inspect the area for any obstructions, such as electrical wires, ductwork, or protruding pipes. Install furring strips to the framing in order to create a flat, even surface for drywall installation around these obstacles.

2

Mark the wall studs to indicate the locations of the ceiling joists for reference during the installation process. You'll also want to mark the placement of light fixtures and electrical boxes.

3

Build a T-Brace, if necessary. 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.

4

Hang the drywall, starting in the corner, where you can use a full sheet. Raise the first sheet to the ceiling so you can get an idea of the placement across the joists.

5

Wait until you know where you're placing each sheet before you apply any adhesive to the joists. Drywall adhesive dries within 15 minutes, so you'll want to be ready.

6

Using your T-brace, or a friend to assist you, raise the first sheet of drywall to the ceiling and slide it snugly into the corner. Make sure that the tapered edges of the sheet are facing the floor.

7

Continue along the first wall, always ensuring that the tapered edges abut one another and are facing down. The tapered edges are designed to make the process of taping and mudding easier.

8

Affix the drywall sheets permanently to the ceiling joists using either nails or screws. The heads of the fasteners you choose should come in contact with the paper facing, sinking in slightly without breaking through the paper.

9

Drive the fasteners in 3/8 inches (0.95 cm) away from the edges of each sheet, and space them 7 inches (17.78 cm) apart along the perimeter. Along the interior joist, install the fasteners at about 12 inch (30.48 cm) increments.

10

Start the second row with a half sheet of drywall in order to stagger the seams. This will enforce the stability.

11

Measure and mark the cut line at the vertical midpoint of the drywall sheet. 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.

12

Trim the dry wall's length by first marking the line with chalk. Score the line with the knife first, then cut deeper with the second pass.

13

Install panels over vents or light fixtures loosely at first. Use a rotary drill to cut out a border for the fixture or vent, and then fully attach the board.

14

Complete the entire ceiling installation before moving on to the walls.

How do I board out a ceiling that is ready for plaster board on a non-standard construction house?

wikiHow Contributor

You can rent or buy a support tool specifically designed for this purpose. Measure, cut, and then lay it on the support tool. It is adjustable and can hold the drywall at the proper height. Screw the drywall to the ceiling joists.

I'm trying to finish the basement ceiling because our contractor backed out after doing the walls first, so how do I make sure everything looks okay when walls are done but the ceiling isn't?

Most people believe that ceilings must be done first, but this isn't true. Doing a ceiling first only helps to hide edges and off cuts. Make sure that the wall board is completely screwed at the top . This will help to keep things straight. You have two option then. You can measure a center point to the middle of the ceiling, placing your sheet dead center of the line, though this isn't recommended if you're not a professional. It's easier to start from a straight corner placing a full sheet in opposite direction of the studs. Your second sheet should be at least 2 - 4 feet shorter than the first one. Place it on the second row. Complete your first row, then continue on until you're finished.

How do I drywall a ceiling that needs insulation?

wikiHow Contributor

Install friction fit batts, sized to meet the code requirements in your area; cover the area completely with 6 mil poly, taping all joints; then fasten up the drywall.

How do I attach drywall to a metal air vent?

wikiHow Contributor

You don't. Drywall should not be in direct contact with the heating duct. As the duct warms when hot air goes through it, the expansion of the duct will create an annoying noise, break loose the screws, or both. You need to frame below the duct to fasten the drywall to either wood or metal framing that is not attached to the duct.

What should the thickness of the drywall on the ceilings be?

wikiHow Contributor

1/2 in is standard, but the code in your area may require a different size, so check your area's building code to be sure.

How far should the screws go into the ceiling joists when installing a drywall ceiling over an existing one?

wikiHow Contributor

To the point where the head contacts the drywall, too far and you could damage the drywall.

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