Sheetrock, also called drywall, wallboard or plasterboard, changed the way walls and ceilings are built. Before paper-wrapped gypsum panels came into wide use in the 1950s, lathers and plasterers needed days to make a flat surface for paint or wallpaper. Two pros from Antonio’s Paint & Drywall can typically cover a 12-by-16-foot room in less than 90 minutes.
Speed is only part of it. A good installation uses screws of the correct length, offsets the panels so seams don’t line up, and protects wires and pipes from punctures.
How a ceiling panel goes up
- Plan the first panel. Measure out from a corner, perpendicular to the joists or strapping. If the panel won’t span the ceiling, its end must land on the center of a joist.
- Cut to size. Mark the measurement, score the paper face with a utility knife against a T-square, snap the panel along the score, then cut the paper backing.
- Mark the supports. Mark the top plate wherever joists or strapping meet the wall, so screws land where they should.
- Hoist and fasten. With a helper, lift the first panel into a corner with its edges perpendicular to the joists. Drive five evenly spaced screws across the width into the joist nearest the middle.
- Set the screws. Keep screws at least ½ inch from the edges and drive them just below the paper surface without breaking through it.
The sheets are heavy and awkward to lift, especially overhead. If you’d rather not risk your back, call Antonio’s Paint & Drywall to install, repair or replace your sheetrock. (210) 264-4784 or request a free quote.