Question 1

How do I calculate how many sheets of drywall I need?

Accepted Answer

To calculate drywall sheets: 1) Measure total wall area (length × height for each wall), 2) Measure ceiling area if applicable, 3) Divide total square footage by 32 (for 4×8 sheets) or 48 (for 4×12 sheets), 4) Add 10-15% for waste and cuts. Standard 4×8 sheets cover 32 sq ft, while 4×12 sheets cover 48 sq ft.

Question 2

What size drywall sheets should I use?

Accepted Answer

4×8 sheets (32 sq ft) are standard and easiest for DIY projects. 4×12 sheets (48 sq ft) reduce seams for 8-foot ceilings and are preferred by professionals, but require two people to install. Use 5/8" thickness for ceilings and fire-rated walls, 1/2" for standard walls, and 1/4" for curved surfaces.

Question 3

How much joint compound and tape do I need?

Accepted Answer

Estimate 1 gallon of joint compound per 100 square feet of drywall (covers 3 coats). For tape, calculate 1 roll per 500 sq ft. You'll need paper tape for flat joints and mesh tape for repairs. First coat uses 50% of compound, second coat 30%, and final coat 20%.

Question 4

How much does drywall cost per sheet?

Accepted Answer

Drywall prices vary: 1/2" 4×8 sheets cost $10-15, 5/8" 4×8 sheets $12-18, and 4×12 sheets $15-25. Moisture-resistant (green board) and fire-rated sheets cost 20-50% more. Bulk orders (50+ sheets) often get 10-20% discounts. Add $0.50-2 per sq ft for professional installation.

Question 5

Do I need to account for doors and windows when calculating drywall?

Accepted Answer

Yes and no. For large openings (60+ sq ft), subtract their area. For standard doors/windows, don't subtract - the waste from these openings typically equals cutting waste from other areas. This simplifies calculations and ensures you don't run short. Always add 10% extra for waste regardless.

Question 6

What other materials do I need besides drywall sheets?

Accepted Answer

Essential materials: Joint compound (1 gal per 100 sq ft), paper or mesh tape (1 roll per 500 sq ft), drywall screws (1 lb per 300 sq ft), corner bead for outside corners, and primer/paint. Tools needed: utility knife, T-square, screw gun, taping knives (6", 10", 12"), sanding block, and mud pan.

Question 7

Should I hire a professional or DIY drywall installation?

Accepted Answer

DIY is feasible for small projects (single room, simple walls) if you have basic skills. Hire professionals for: large projects (whole house), ceilings, curved walls, high walls, or if you lack experience. Pro finishing costs $1.50-3 per sq ft but delivers smooth, professional results. Poor DIY finishing is obvious and hard to fix.

Question 8

How long does drywall installation take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline estimates: Hanging drywall takes 1-2 days for an average room (DIY) or 4-8 hours (professional). Taping and mudding requires 3-5 days (minimum 24 hours drying between coats). Sanding and priming adds 1-2 days. Total DIY project: 5-10 days. Professional crew: 3-5 days for complete finish.

Material	Typical Cost	Notes
1/2" 4×8 Sheet	$10-15	Most common, standard walls
5/8" 4×8 Sheet	$12-18	Ceilings, fire-rated
4×12 Sheet	$15-25	Fewer seams, professional use
Joint Compound (5-gal)	$20-30	1 bucket per 10 sheets
Paper Tape (250 ft)	$6-10	1 roll per 100 sq ft
Drywall Screws (1 lb)	$8-12	1 lb per 300 sq ft
Corner Bead (8 ft)	$3-6	Per outside corner
Professional Installation	$1.50-3/sq ft	Includes hanging + finishing

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