How to Hang Drywall: Beginner's Guide

If you've decided to take on the task of hanging your drywall but lack the expertise, we are here to help. Check out our beginner's guide to hanging drywall.

1. Prep the Space

As tempting as it may be to slap the drywall up and be done with it, be sure to check the walls for anything that could poke through and cause bumps in the finish.

This means you'll also want to pull out old nails–you don't want to see any nail pops. In addition, what good are walls if they are not properly insulated to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer? Check a local guide to see what R-value insulation your home should have.

Once the space is ready, ensure you have all the tools you need. This includes a level! Always be sure your surface is level before you start hanging.

2. Start with the Ceiling

The best practice when hanging drywall is to install the ceiling first.

Ensure that the type and thickness of the drywall you purchased are right for your project.

• Measure twice, cut once. The first step is figuring out what size piece you're hanging. The first piece will most likely be a full sheet, but as the project progresses, you will have different measurements. You always want to "break" on the stud. This means that both ends of your drywall piece need to be secured to a stud. This means most studs will share two pieces of drywall: the beginning of one piece and the end of another. This is called a butt joint. To determine the sizes of your drywall, measure from the middle of one stud to the middle of another.
• Now you can start hanging! The experts at Al's recommend screwing the drywall in rather than nailing it. Butt joints should be the last thing you screw when securing the drywall to the stud. First, screw in the field, and then when both pieces are nestled on a stud, screw them down.
• Don't stress about lights. If you run into lights in the ceiling, simply mark where they are as you install. Then, you will be able to find them easily when it's time to u them out of the drywall.

3. Install the Walls

The drywall you use for the walls will likely be much lighter–so after you've completed the ceiling, the walls will be a breeze.

If you already have outlets in place, make sure you don't cover any of them up. The first step is turning off the power at the breaker.

Then, unscrew any outlets that are screwed in place. Gently pull the outlet so it's slightly out of the box and tilted forward. Measure where outlet boxes will fall on your drywall and cut those places out with your drywall knife. Bring the section of drywall up to the wall and feed the outlet through the hole.

We recommend getting a drywall lifter as well. This will assist in creating a tight seam between the top and bottom layers of your wall.

Ready to Hang Drywall like a Pro?

Al's Taping Tools has you covered. We have been supplying contractors with the most extensive selection of professional-quality parts, tools, and accessories since 1985. Our experts are always happy to help you save time and money on your next project. Shop drywall hanging equipment and our other handy tools here.