Drywall here refers to the plasterboard used for interior walls and ceilings. It is basically made up of calcium sulphate dihydrate (also known as gypsum). It is typically extruded between thick sheets of facer and backer paper and then this plaster is mixed with some fiber to make it less flammable and milder. Moreover, after adding this fiber it will reduce its water absorption capacity. Drywall install and repair are prominent because it will keep your home look unblemished.
Why Drywall?
If a prominent construction material is needed to create walls and ceilings, it is drywall that is most preferable. These are the following reasons behind it
- Many design features like arches, eaves are created using drywall.
- Most of all, it is quick and durable.
- Drywall repair and install are very easy and quick as compared to other plasters.
- It is mainly used for fire resistance at walls and ceilings.
Initially, plaster was used to make building interiors, and ceilings were made by putting layers of wet plaster between wooden strips which are known as laths. The wet plaster would dry eventually and get harden to form walls. But here the installation and repair processes were time-consuming as well as difficult to implement than the drywall repair and install.
Another major drawback of plaster over drywall is plaster application require more skilled craftsmen who would continuously work over the same wall for a long period. So, drywall makes it easy by its fast work that is within some couple of days. Moreover, the cost of drywall repair and install is less than plaster.
Despite all these benefits, drywall was slow to catch the eye of builders. It was some past 60 years that this material gained its importance.
Prevents Damages
Drywall install and repair not only construct ceilings but also prevents many damages like:
- Moisture that causes damage
- Normal wear and tear
- Drywall anchor holes
- Regular cracks
Some companies offer drywall beyond repair they will take into account why and how the drywall damage occurred. Some proactive steps would be taken for its prevention.
Steps To Repair Drywall
If more than one hole is there in the wall. It is recommended to replace the entire drywall instead of just the damaged section. It will give a more seamless look to the wall. For small holes, you can use mud and mesh method to cut off the damaged drywall. Mesh is more preferable than simple tape as it will create a stronger bond between old and existing drywall pieces and lead to better drywall repair and install.
Step-1: Removing Damaged Section
Firstly, you need to measure the damaged section using a straight line from top to bottom. Now, you have to cut across those lines, stopping at studs that are near the damaged areas. You have to keep cutting the damaged area until the entire section is removed. If your damaged area is somewhere in the corner try preserving the corner stud while removing the damaged section.
Step-2: To Attach Drywall add Framing
An efficient way to attach drywall is to add new stud to the existing stud. This method is easier to implement to attach the drywall. It also eliminates the need to cut the drywall in a straight line. All you need to do is to cut 2×4 board size and nail it to existing stud.
Step-3: Attach and Cut Drywall
After merging new and old studs, you need to measure the hole size and cut the corresponding size of drywall. Keep in mind that you have to measure the length appropriately and then box cutter will help to cut the drywall out. Now, place the end of drywall in the center of the stud as it will make the bond stronger. Bring the screws about 8 to 12 inches long to attach the drywall to stud.
Step-4: Tape and Mud
This step is to fill the gap between existing and new drywall. If it comes out to be 1/8 inch, then use mud mixture to fill it. Thoroughly mix peanut butter with drywall compound to maintain the consistency. Now, cover all the gaps and dimples of the wall with this mud. Please ensure that all the gaps are filled with a tight seal. Let the mud to get dried for an hour.
Step-5: Texture and paint
You have to check the wall before painting . Check is it free from debris and smooth. Then, apply the prime and paint the new section of drywall.
Safety First
For drywall repair and install, you will take care if there would be large repairs and you need to take two or more sheets of drywall.The size of the sheets would be ½-in. You should also beware of the weight before drywall repair and install. It should be more than 54 pounds. As lighter one could fall any time and may hurt any child.
Points to take care of:
- You should beware of buckets.
- You need to clean up the dust for better drywall repair.