When finishing a basement, drywall is often needed to complete the space, cover the framing of the walls, and add a little color once it’s painted. Most homeowners are going to want to call in the pros to handle this job because it’s often bigger than they might expect. However, it’s still a good idea to have a basic understanding of how drywall installation is done.
Start With the Ceiling
The drywall company will start with hanging full and partial drywall boards for the ceiling. Typically, the ceiling is finished before moving on to the rest of the room. Doing the ceiling first gets it out of the way, and any places that aren’t perfect around the edges are hidden by the panels on the wall and the mud connecting the ceiling to the wall. It’s also easier to install the ceiling first rather than have to slide the edge of the ceiling boards above the wall boards.
Measure and Hang Full Boards
Once the ceiling is done, the pros move on to hanging the full boards on the walls. The full boards should go from frame to frame and cover most of the wall. These boards are heavy, weighing in at more than 50 pounds, depending on the type and thickness. Waterproof boards should be used in any area where water is typically found, such as a bathroom that’s being installed in the basement.
Hang Partial Boards
After hanging the full boards, there will likely be some spaces left to fill. It will be necessary to cut the drywall to size and install it in the remaining spaces. This will happen in most basements, as the walls likely aren’t exactly wide enough to fit all of the full boards. Partial boards may also be needed around doors and windows to leave openings so those can be installed.
Cut Out Openings as Needed
Openings will be needed for plumbing, electrical outlets, and other accessories in the room. It is crucial to make sure the openings are cut in the correct spots and to be careful to cut them properly to avoid damaging any plumbing or electrical behind the new drywall. A drywall saw will make this job easier, but care is needed to avoid ragged edges or incorrect cuts.
Finishing the Drywall
Finishing the drywall is the last step. Tape is placed over any seams between full or partial sheets of drywall, then the right drywall mud is added to hold the tape in place and smooth it out so it’s not noticeable when everything is dry. Drywall mud is also used to fill in the holes made by the screws that hold the drywall in place. It takes skill to apply the mud properly to provide a smooth transition from one board to the next.
Finishing a basement can add to the home and create more space for just about anything. However, finishing the basement takes a lot of work, especially if there will be drywall and other major projects to complete. Homeowners who are interested in installing drywall in their basement will want to have professionals handle the job, as it can be difficult to do, and it’s important that it’s done right so it looks amazing. Contact professionals today to schedule a consultation.