How to Do it With Marshalltown Tools

Drywall Tips and Techniques
Applications

Gypsum wallboard is an especially popular wall material because it is relatively inexpensive, strong and easy to finish, and application is simple. The standard panel is 4 feet wide and comes in lengths up to 12 feet. Generally, it's sold whenever lumber or home building supplies are sold. To install the panels, just cut to fit and nail into position. Your local supplier will suggest the right thickness for the job you undertake and the right nail size to use.

Gypsum wallboard may also be applied with any of the existing commercial adhesives developed especially for this purpose. To apply gypsum wallboard with adhesive, panels must be pre-cut to fit. Apply adhesive to studs and joists in a continuous 3/8" bead. Where two panels meet, apply a zigzag bead of adhesive. Press panel into position by hand and fasten immediately with screws or other suitable fasteners. Later, when adhesive has set, fasteners may be removed.

Cover the ceiling first, placing the sheets at right angles to the joists. The walls are covered next by applying the sheets vertically or horizontally. The horizontal application is preferred by most installers, as it requires less taping. To assure a good joint at the ceiling line, apply the top panel first. Irregularities, if any, will be concealed by the baseboard at the floor line.

When applying gypsum wallboard to basement walls, 2 x 2 furring strips must be installed at regular intervals, usually 16 inches on center. Wallboard may the be applied to furring strips with nails as directed or with adhesive.

When cutting is necessary, lay the panel on a solid surface, use a straight edge or drywall T-square to mark your line, and using a utility knife cut through the paper covering on one side. Then slide the panel to the edge of your working surface so the score is directly over the edge. Snap down to break the panel and using the utility knife cut through the paper covering on the back side. Holes for electrical outlets, pipes and other obstructions can be cut in a similar fashion. Measure carefully, cut through the paper covering on one side, then use a hammer to "knock out" the hole. A drywall saw or circle cutter for cutting wallboard may also be purchased at your local retail outlet.

When nailing the panel in place, be sure both edges rest squarely on-center of the studs or joists. Then nail it down*. The last blow of the hammer should make a slight depression in the panel so the nailhead is just below surface level. Later, the depressions can be filled with patching plaster and sanded to a smooth finish.

On outside corners, be sure to overlap the panel on one side. The overlap should be as wide as the thickness of the panel so that the opposing panel is flush when positioned.

*For best results and increased holding all sheets should be double-nailed about 1 inch apart.