​Tips for Drywall

Looking to upgrade your business or home with some drywall? We share quick-tips on how doing a successful drywall job, no matter how big or small the project is.

Tip 1- Picking the right compound

When it comes to drywall, depending on the size of the space that one is working with, choosing the right mix and compound can determine the success and flow of a project. For example, if a contractor is looking to cover up any scratches, minor gashes, then a simple patching compound would be the choice; however, if space or rather holes and scratches are more substantial than a dime, compound mixtures would be the ideal choice. Depending on the solution, these compound mixtures are found as a dry powder where once water is added, can take minutes before settling. It is important that when working with drywall, one works both efficiently and quickly to ensure that the compound doesn’t harden.

Tip 2 – Drywall the ceiling? Use a lift

Looking to install some drywall on the ceiling? While it can be done with some hands on deck and ladders, the most comfortable and most practical way to do this is to use a drywall lift. If one doesn’t own a lift, they can go to a local industrial rental shop and request on there. Having a drywall lift will not only make the process of installing the boards and applying drywall easier, but it will create less work and inconsistency which can happen when done manually. Ceilings are intricate and can be difficult – why not simplify the process!

Tip 3 – Maximize drywall, minimize butt joints

Depending on where in the house or building drywall is installed, a good contractor knows that avoiding where drywall joints meet can be hard to ensure levelness and a clean finish. The solution? The use of drywall sheets. Drywall sheets allow for a more considerable coverage of space and can provide an aesthetically and tapered finish. Depending on suppliers, drywall sheets typically come in sizes of 8, 12, and 14 ft, with the last being harder to find and sometimes need to be requested on an as per need basis.

Tip 4 – Proper tools for the right job

A job done right is a job that has used all the necessary tools. When it comes to situations where drywall is involved, some tools can be beneficial, for example, a drywall saw (coarse jigsaw blade) makes cutting openings or shaving off sides of drywall boards easier but also more compact than an electrical saw. In some instances, where drywall is installed it can be hard to maneuver around, and the use of a heavy-duty or electrical saw is not feasible – in come in the trusted and handy drywall saw.

Tip 5 – Smash to level

When it comes to installing drywall in areas where there is a wall, window or door to avoid any unevenness, using a hammer to balance out any protruding unevenness will make the install much more comfortable. While for a skilled contractor this is quite simple and easy, it is essential that when smashing the sides to be careful not to smash too hard or too far because then it becomes a struggle to level out the sides and openings.

Tip 6 – Patch holes and bumps to level

When it comes to drywall, one of the most critical aspects of drywall installation is the spreading of the compound and filling the holes to ensure a smooth surface. While some amateur contractors may take the one-hole a time approach the best one is to fill the gaps with the same swipe. For example, a contractor can make the compound with the spread, and apply it evenly across the strip of the wall until evenly spread – this will ensure a consistency which is essential when it comes to drywall.

Tip 7 – Prime and Paint

Drywall installed now to paint; however, when it comes to painting, sometimes merely going from drywall installation to painting isn’t the best approach. For some with the eye, once a patch of drywall or an area of drywall has been painted – once it has dried it can look slightly porous and rough. Solution? Using a primer before painting can actually create a smoother finish and allow for space with the drywall patches to blend in with the surrounding areas.

Whether its drywall or home upgrades you are doing, Access Doors and Panels offers useful tips and products for the builder no matter how big or small the job is. To view our inventory or to learn more, visit www.accessdoorsandpanels.com.