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Drywall Section - Drywall Information

Do It Yourself Drywall Tips:

Drywall (or gypsum board, wallboard, or the brand name, sheetrock) has replaced plaster as the most common way to resurface or build new walls when remodelling homes. It is versatile, inexpensive, durable and easy to install, so do-it-yourselfers have made it the material of choice over plaster, which can be a lot more difficult to work with.

Drywall is available as 4'x 8', 4'x 10', 4'x 12' sheets and even larger but the most common size recommended is a 4'x8' sheet. It also comes in various thickness from 1/2", 5/8", 3/8" or 1/4" ask your building consultant what thickness is suitable for your project but there are a few general rules of thumb:

  • Ceilings and walls with 16" on-centre framing use standard 1/2" drywall, 24" on-centre framing, use 5/8" drywall.
  • Curved walls need 3/8" or 1/4" drywall and usually requires wetting before forming around the curve.
  • 1/4" drywall shouldn't be used as a single layer, but should only be used over an existing surface.

Drywall also is available in water-resistant sheets or "greenboard" as it is called. It has the same gypsum core as drywall, but it has a water-resistant facing for use in wet areas such as a bathrooms or kitchens. Water-resistant, however, does not mean waterproof, and it will deteriorate from moisture penetration so be sure to plan for proper drainage.

Some people use a concrete backerboard, often called by the brand names "Durock" or "Wonder Board, for these areas. It has a solid concrete core and is faced on both sides with fibreglass and is ideal for wet areas like counter back splashes, shower walls and bathtub surrounds.

Installation involves fastening drywall panels directly to wall studs using wallboard nails, screws, or adhesives. Joints between panels are covered by wallboard tape and sealed with joint compound. There is an art to the finishing touches so if you are working with drywall compound for the first time, here are a couple of tips to help:

  • Be sure to purchase a good quality drywall compound and be careful to keep it moist. Drywall compound has a tendency to dry out quickly so you might have to mix it up a bit and possibly add a little water over a long period of time. You want a smooth and moist consistency, but not too wet.
  • Instead of dispersing the compound directly from the pail, put it on a plastic trough, first which will give you more control of how it is dispersed.
  • Don't over-apply drywall compound. It is more effective to apply several thinner coats. Also, thinner coats will dry faster. Use a 12-in.or 14-in. trowel, for best results.

Once you have all of the drywall up, the seams are joined, the next step is sanding. Make sure the compound has dried completely before sanding and check instructions for drying time and stick to it. Do not oversand which could lead to a messy patch up job. Sanding also can be very messy, close off the area from the rest of the house with sheets of plastic. It may help to read up on what’s involved before you get started so that you are prepared in all aspects of the drywall process.

 
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