How to Hang Drywall
Hanging drywall is more about layout and stamina than skill. Get the panels tight to the studs, screw on schedule, and stagger your seams.
What You'll Need
Drywall screws (1-1/4" or 1-5/8")
Drywall screw gun or drill
T-square
Utility knife with sharp blades
Drywall lift (for ceilings)
Tape measure
Drywall saw
Video tutorial: How to Hang Drywall
Step-by-Step
Plan your layoutMark stud locations on the floor and ceiling. Plan panels to stagger seams and avoid joints landing on door or window corners.
Hang the ceiling firstLift panels with a drywall lift or a helper, run them perpendicular to the joists, and screw to every joist every 12".
Hang the top half of wallsRun panels horizontally with the long edge tight to the ceiling. Screw to studs every 16".
Hang the bottom halfSlide bottom panels under the top, foot-lift them tight to the upper panel, and screw home. Leave a 1/2" gap at the floor.
Cut for outlets and switchesMeasure carefully, mark on the panel, and cut with a drywall saw or rotary tool before hanging.
Score and snap for straight cutsScore the face with a utility knife along a T-square, snap the panel back, and slice the paper backing.
Set screws below the surfaceDrive screws just below the paper without breaking it. A drywall screw gun has a clutch that does this automatically.
Inspect the seamsAll edges should land on framing, screws should sit slightly dimpled, and seams should butt tight. Now you're ready to tape and mud.
Pro tipAlways hang the ceiling first. Wall panels then support the ceiling edges and make taping easier.
If you don't think you can do it, let our experts help.