What this covers
Drywall installation covers new walls and ceilings in additions, finished basements and rebuilds. The installer chooses the board for the location: standard half-inch for walls, thicker or sag-resistant board for ceilings, moisture-resistant board in baths, fire-rated board where the code calls for it. Sheets are hung with the joints staggered and the fewest seams, screwed to studs and joists at the right spacing, and cut cleanly around boxes and openings. Seams are taped and mudded in several coats, corners get bead, and the whole surface is sanded to the agreed finish level. Careful hanging makes the finishing easier and the wall flatter.
When to call
- A new addition, finished basement or attic conversion with open framing.
- Walls or ceilings cut out after a water or fire loss that need to be closed again.
- A remodel where walls were moved or openings changed.
- Old paneling or damaged plaster you want replaced with a smooth surface.
What to expect
- PlanBoard type and thickness are chosen for each surface and the sheet layout is set to limit seams.
- HangSheets are lifted into place, screwed to the framing and cut around openings.
- Tape and mudSeams and screw heads get tape and several coats of compound, with bead on outside corners.
- Sand and inspectThe surface is sanded, checked under a light for ridges and pits, and left ready to prime.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
What are drywall finish levels?
A scale from level 0 to level 5 describing how many coats and how much sanding a surface gets. Level 4 is the usual standard for painted walls; level 5 adds a skim coat for glossy paint or strong side light.
Which board goes in a bathroom?
Moisture-resistant board on walls outside the wet area, and a cement or foam backer board behind tile in showers and tub surrounds.
How long before the wall can be painted?
Each coat of compound has to dry before the next, so finishing takes several days. Once sanded, the wall is primed and then painted.
Related: Drywall repair · Soundproofing · Framing · All drywall and plaster
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.