Drywall is a popular building material contractors use to construct walls and ceilings because it’s durable, easy to install, and only requires low maintenance.
While it may offer significant benefits over other building materials, drywall installers must always get it right the first time because it can lead to expensive mistakes. Unfortunately, that’s not the case for DIY experts or first-time drywall installers because this process is usually complex.
If you want to complete a successful project, our drywall installers will enumerate eight common mistakes people make during installation and how to prevent them.
1. Creating Tight Drywall Joints
Professional drywall installers recommend leaving a small gap of about ⅛-inch between the sheets because it allows the building frame to expand and contract without cracking the materials. It’s worth remembering that filling the gap is always easier than repairing a broken drywall, so it’s best to take precautionary measures when installing.
2. Creating Unnecessary Joints
If you’re not a professional drywall installer, we recommend buying enough material rather than purchasing the least amount. When determining how many drywall sheets you need, identify if you can cover a wall with fewer 12-foot-long sheets instead of four 8-foot-long sheets, even though the 12-foot sheets may be harder to move. That way, you can save time and money when taping and applying coats of compound.
3. Incorrect Alignment
Precision is always vital when installing drywall on your property. Professional installers need you to measure and mark the spots for the screws properly. That way, you won’t need to try and drill them into the same area multiple times. It’s the same concept as measuring twice and cutting once.
4. Not Having the Proper Frame Support
When mounting drywall on your property, professional installers recommend checking if the material has proper support. Without it, the drywall may become damaged, and the corners won’t be secure. You can ensure a properly secured drywall by adding an extra two-by-four to the frame to provide ample support and ensure proper installation.
However, if you’re struggling to determine the correct dimensions for the frame, you can always contact your local drywall installers for assistance. They’ll know the exact measurements and the right supports for the job.
5. Misaligning Holes for Electrical Boxes
Drywall installation can be complicated, especially if you’re a novice installer and if you need to consider electrical boxes. Begin by carefully measuring the area around the box and cutting the drywall to size.
Next, hold it up to the box and determine if it fits. If it looks tight, use a utility knife to slice away the drywall until it’s the exact size. Then, screw the other end of the wall and slide the box over it. Finish the installation project by screwing in the wall.
6. Oversanding the Drywall
When mounting drywall, installers urge property owners to sand the material carefully. Too much pressure or being overly aggressive can cause oversanding, which can ruin the seam. You can ensure the best results by having a good light source to illuminate the area you’ll sand to get even and precise results.
7. Over Screwing the Drywall
Overscrewing during drywall installation can damage and weaken the screws’ hold. You can prevent this issue by using the right amount of screws and not using more than necessary. If you screw it in too deep, you can place a screw nearby to replace the faulty one.
8. Putting Tapered Edges on outside Corners
When installing drywall, ensure the cut edges are along the outside corners to make installing the corner bead easier. Avoid having tapered edges at the corners.
Avoiding Expensive Mistakes
Drywall is a valuable material to make a property look and feel durable and aesthetically pleasing. However, it’s always crucial to install it right the first time. Working with professional drywall installers can help you get the most out of your project.
If you need a professional drywall installer in the Medicine Hat community, let us help! Patterson Bros Drywall prides itself on delivering quality work. Contact us now to get a quote!