Plasterboard installation might be simple, but taping the connections between panels requires practice. Some do-it-yourselfers install the drywall and then hire a professional drywall taper to complete the work.

Hanging Drywall

In order to install drywall on the ceiling and walls of a framed room, you will likely require assistance, particularly for the ceiling. Here's how to install and cut panels:

• Step 1: Construct a pair of T-braces from 2 X 4's that are approximately an inch longer than the floor-to-ceiling distance. Attach 3-foot-long 2 X 4's to one end of each longer 2 X 4 to form the Ts. Alternatively, it is possible to rent adjustable T-braces.

• Step 2: Cut sheetrock to size. Cut drywall with a sharp utility knife and a straightedge. After cutting through the face paper, set the board over a length of 2 X 4, laid flat on the floor or another support, and snap down the scored area. The gypsum core will shatter along the cut line. Then, flip the panel over, cut the paper on the other side, and use a sanding block and very coarse sandpaper to smooth the rough edges.

• Step 3: Install drywall panels on the ceiling as the third step. If at all possible, attempt to span the entire width with a single sheet of wallboard to minimize the number of joints. Position and wedge the T-braces against the sheet of drywall to hold it in place until the nailing is completed.

• Step 4: At 6-inch intervals, hammer nails into all joists covered by the sheet. Beginning in the center of the sheet of drywall, work outward. Give each nail an additional blow with the hammer to dimple the surface without tearing the face paper.

• Step 5: After the ceiling has been completed, cut and install wall panels. Measure all cutouts in the walls, including those for electrical outlets, switches, and light fixtures. To create cutouts, sketch a pattern of the cutout on the wallboard, drill a hole in the pattern line, and then trace the pattern using a keyhole saw.

• Step 6: Space the nails six inches apart along the studs, beginning four inches from the ceiling. The wall panels should be butted against the ceiling sheets. Dimple all nails. Cover any exterior corners with metal outside corner beads.

Now comes the artistic portion — taping. This is covered in the following section.

Not what you had in mind? Try the following:

Materials: Having the necessary tools on hand for repairs is not always sufficient. Frequently, numerous materials, such as lumber or drywall, are required to perform a task.

Drywall: Drywall, commonly known as gypsum board, is used to construct the inside walls of homes and other buildings.

Decorating Walls: It should be simple to paint a huge, flat surface like a wall, right? Well, it may be a basic home repair project, but you'll still need some advice to complete the task efficiently and effectively.