Are you planning to take the drywall installation task into your own hands? No matter what others have told you, without hiring drywall installation contractors, your project cannot be completed successfully. You need to have skill and precision to get the job done smoothly and without any errors.
So, unless you are a professional, it is nearly impossible for you to achieve the best results. Still unsure whether hiring professionals is the right choice? Here, we will debunk a few myths to help you understand that this job isn’t for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- Drywall installation requires more than just using basic tools; professional skill and precision are also important.
- Oversecuring with screws and mudding/taping can weaken your drywall, resulting in poor aesthetics.
- Different types of drywall serve various purposes, such as moisture or fire resistance.
Common Drywall Installation Myths Debunked
Drywall installation is one of the most crucial aspects of a building’s infrastructure. There are plenty of misconceptions surrounding drywall installation that tend to make individuals think that it is an easy task. Below is an explanation of some of the myths that surround it:
Myth 1: Anyone can install drywall.
Reality: It is a complex task; hiring professionals is necessary.
Drywall installation can look like something simple that involves nothing more than measuring, cutting, and hanging. In actuality, it’s a tricky, time-consuming task that demands experience and professionalism. From achieving even spacing and alignment to fastening the drywall without marring the material, only professionals can manage it all.
A poorly installed drywall will not only look uneven but can also create long-term structural problems like cracks or sagging. That’s why hiring a professional contractor is often a wise investment. They are equipped with the right tools and have enough experience to ensure that the job is done with utmost efficiency.
Myth 2: Adding plenty of screws and nails means stability
Reality: This oversecuring technique weakens the structure
If you think that oversecuring could increase the longevity of your drywall, then you might want to rethink your decision. By adding more screws and nails, your drywall will become weak, damage its core, and reduce the holding strength. This could cause bulging or cracking that would appear over time.
The best approach is to follow industry-recommended spacing guidelines. Typically, drywall screws should be spaced about 12 to 16 inches apart, depending on the placement and structure. Consistency and correct depth are far more important than quantity.
Myth 3: Drywalls should be installed flush on the floor.
Reality: Leaving a gap of ½ inch is advisable.
Generally, a gap of around ½ inch is recommended between the bottom edge of the drywall and the floor. Installing it flush on the floor could lead to moisture absorption, especially in areas like basements, which are prone to spills and humidity. This causes the material to become weak, create mold, and swell over time.
By adding a small gap, your drywall installation contractors protect the floor from moisture and create a decent space for flooring installation or expansion. This step also ensures that there is no wicking (where drywall draws moisture up from the floor) that can ruin an otherwise standard installation.
Myth 4: Drywall can be installed directly on studs
Reality: Relying solely on studs is a bad idea.
Technically, drywall is fastened to wall studs — but merely screwing sheets into studs without considering spacing, alignment, and support is a recipe for disaster. Studs must be spaced appropriately (generally 16 inches on center), straight, and properly framed to hold the weight and give a flush surface to attach the drywall to.
Additionally, in traffic areas or where it’s humid, there can be a need for added supports, such as backing boards or the use of water-resistant drywall styles. Disregarding these considerations results in a poorly supported and weak wall that cracks, bows, or becomes unstable.
Myth 5: Mudding and taping are optional
Reality: Both mudding and taping are important
Mudding (application of joint compound) and taping become integral parts of the drywall process and cannot be ignored. They are used together to keep the seams between sheets and cover any nail or screw holes, giving a smooth, level surface that can be painted or wallpapered.
Skipping these steps or doing them poorly can result in visible seams, uneven textures, and paint absorption issues. Quality mudding and taping are what make drywall appear seamless and professional. It takes patience, layering, sanding, and drying time — something best handled by trained professionals or skilled DIYers.
Myth 6: All drywalls are the same.
Reality: Every drywall is made for a different purpose.
There are several types of drywall. Each one is designed for specific environments and purposes. Standard drywall may work for most rooms, but other varieties like moisture-resistant (green board), fire-rated (Type X), mold-resistant, and soundproof drywall serve specialized needs.
Choosing the wrong kind of drywall may cause early-age damage. For example, drywall applied in a bathroom can lead to growing mold, whereas fire-rated drywall omitted where it should be used may lead to a code violation. By taking help from drywall installation contractors in New York, you will be able to understand all about drywall and where it can be installed.
Why is it important to dispel the myths?
It is important to debunk some common myths before opting for drywall installation to avoid costly mistakes and poor quality results.
1. Prevents Structural Issues
There are plenty of myths surrounding securing the drywall; a popular one is to either use too many nails or install it flush on the floor. Both of these can compromise the security of the structure and even damage it.
2. Saves Time and Money
Often, DIYers undertake a home renovation project to save labor costs after believing in the myths surrounding it. With accurate knowledge, you can create better budgets and manage costs more efficiently.
3. Improves Safety
The improper selection of a variety of drywall (because of the lack of knowledge) could bring about a long-term safety hazard, such as the appearance of mould or even become more prone to catching fire in the wet areas (e.g., bathrooms and garages).
Final Thoughts
To make an informed decision in home installation or renovation, the first step should be to debunk all the myths. These myths will hinder you from seeing the work that goes into drywall installation. After understanding all the technicalities, you will find that it’s best to call in renowned drywall installation contractors to get the job done.
No matter how big or small the task is, professional contractors will complete it in no time. What are you waiting for? Call in your nearby contractor and get your drywall installed today.