10 Tips on Preparing Walls for Drywall Installation

After drywall is hung on your walls, it is a real struggle to make repairs or adjustments. It is of the utmost importance to do the job right the first time. Here are some tips on how to prepare your walls before you hang the drywall, which will make your life easier after it’s installed.

1.) Check the studs and joists, making sure that they are all straight and evenly spaced. If the studs are not properly spaced, the easiest thing to do is just add some additional studs at appropriate intervals — generally, 16 inches apart. No drywall should be unsupported for more than two feet. Any warped, twisted or rotting studs are best taken out and replaced using good lumber.

2.) Be sure that there are nailers or double studs situated at each corner and on both sides of vertical corners or headers.

3.) Insulate all the exterior walls and perform any necessary soundproofing of the interior walls before you install drywall.

4.) Add moisture barriers. In colder climates, the barrier goes between the drywall and insulation; in warmer climates, the barrier goes between the sheathing and insulation.

5.) Check to make certain that all boxes for electrical outlets, light switches and light fixtures are securely installed and in place.

6.) Put all the cable television, telephone or other in-house communications wiring in place.

7.) Be sure that all plumbing and electrical wiring are roughed in to their proper positions.

8.) Examine the heating and cooling designs and ensure that all the fresh air returns and duct work are securely installed and in place.

9.) Put metal protective plates on any studs where a plumbing pipe or electrical wire goes through. These plates will keep you from unintentionally nailing into a pipe or cable.

10.) After the walls are sufficiently prepared, you can begin measuring and cutting the drywall.


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