Installing a drywall can be a dot-it-yourself project but ideally, it’s a man’s job. This is because strength is required especially when placing the wall and nailing them in place. In fact, some homeowners may just do the initial part and then hire an experienced person to finish the work.

Getting the proper measurements for your drywall is vital. Planning is necessary to achieve a wall with only a few joints.

Standard drywall sheets come in 4 x 8 feet but the thickness may vary from 1/2 inch for walls and 5/8 for ceilings. The size of nails or screws you should use will depend on the thickness of your drywall. Be sure to check your area’s building code for the required measurements.

When installing drywall on the walls or ceiling, it would make your work easier and faster if you have another person helping you. Usually, the drywall is installed by positioning the long side of it from floor to ceiling. However, it is also possible to install it horizontally if this will create lesser joints depending on what suits you.

Experts suggest that drywall should be installed to the ceiling first before the walls. The drywall should be positioned at right angles to the joints. Use a T-brace if you’re working on your own to keep the other steady while you’re installing it. To make a T-brace, nail a 1 x 4 wood with a length of two feet to a 2 x 4 wood of sufficient length that can reach the height of the ceiling from floor.

Nail the drywall using the right size of nails and make sure to space your nails every 7 inches. For each joist, three nails is ideal – one in the center and two at the edge. Drive the nails with enough pressure so that they tighten the board to the framing.

For the walls, the top boards should be installed first if you want to do it horizontally. You need to push them firmly against the ceiling to keep them secure.

When nailing, start by driving the first nail 7 inches below the ceiling. Space the nails at least 7 inches apart.

If the adhesive method is used, apply the nails at the board’s edges. Should you observe the center part bowing out, drive a temporary nail until the adhesive has set. Don’t forget to remove the nail once it’s been set.

For a vertical installation of the drywall ideal for wall heights more than 8 feet and 2 inches, the long edges of the wall board should be placed parallel to the framing members. Follow the same steps when nailing the board.

The outside corner area should be applied with metal corner strips. Nail them every 5 inches. Nail through the strip’s edge first followed by the drywall and then the wood framing.

Cover all joints, corners and nail heads with a joint compound. Apply at least two to three coats of compound if possible. The amount of coating will also depend on the type of drywall tape you are using – whether the regular one or the type with adhesive on the back.