Posts Tagged ‘ceiling’

Lessons in How to Drywall a Ceiling

Wednesday, April 2nd, 2008

While it may seem intimidating at first, hanging drywall is usually pretty simple for most homeowners to learn.   We all walk around feeling superior and in charge of things until it becomes necessary to learn how to drywall a ceiling and then you might find out how little you really know about home improvement.  It may help you to realize that hanging drywall on the ceiling really isn’t all that different than on the wall.  You may need some extra time and arm strength though. 

Before you start any home improvement job, the first thing that should be on your list is to gather the supplies and tools you need.  For this project concerning how to drywall a ceiling, you are going to need drywall, a drywall jack, and screw gun as well as drywall screws or nails.  While you are writing out your list include measuring tapes, utility knives, and safety glasses.  An assortment of drywall hammers will help a lot as well.  Finally stepladders and drills outfitted with a screwdriver bit should have you ready.  If you really want, include your handiest friends and a case of beer to make sure they show up.

How to Drywall a Ceiling

Your next step is to mark the ceiling joists.  No how to drywall a ceiling lesson is complete without this step.  You need to know where they are in order to attach the drywall to them in a little while.  All of these little details are why you should also stay away from the beer until the job is finished.

If you are installing a ceiling light fixture as well, this is the time to cut out the space in the drywall you will need for the fixture.  Make sure each drywall sheet you place is in the correct location.  It should be that the end of the drywall is in the center of each joist.  Nail it down around the edges and remove your jack. 

These are the basic steps you need in addition to nailing in your drywall screws.  With a little practice, you can give a class on how to drywall a ceiling.  Seriously, you will be that good.

For more information on how to drywall a ceiling