Drywall installation can be as much an art form as it is science. This means that there is lots of room for error if you are not well-versed in the techniques. It is easy to overlook a few details that could cause your project to spiral out of control. This can lead to poor results and cost you time and money – Skyway Drywall Repair in St Petersburg FL
Here is a list of what Skyway Drywall Repair experts advice not to do in the drywall industry, whether you are an expert or a DIYer.
Driving the screws so deep
It is easy to drive screws too deeply when hanging drywall. This can cause damage to the paper surface and decrease the screw’s holding power.
To prevent this from happening. You should only drive the screw head about a quarter size beyond the surface of the paper. This issue can be avoided by using a clutch on most drills that allow you to adjust the depth of the drive.
Making too tight joints
If two sheets are too close together, it can lead to drywall cracking during or after installation. Allow enough space for the framing members to expand and contract as the seasons change. You’ll end up with cracks if you don’t allow enough space for this to happen.
To prevent this, keep a gap of 1/8 inch between sheets when installing them. A guide can be used to ensure that your sheets are evenly spaced throughout the job.
Starting to fasten before trimming
It is not unusual for an outlet hole not to fit exactly the way you originally cut it. If this happens, trim the opening before you attach the drywall to your framing. If you don’t trim the opening, the drywall could break around the electrical box.
You can fasten the sheet using a few screws that are far enough from the outlet opening to allow for trimming. However, it is best not to fasten all the way up until the hole is perfect.
Putting joints near doors and windows
Cracking can be caused by lining up the edges of drywall sheets with those of door frames or windows. The joint adjacent to any window or door will become weaker over time as your home settles.
It’s better to notch drywall around the opening than make a joint. After fastening, lay a sheet of drywall over the opening. You can join sheets across an opening but not at the edges.
Making too many joints
Your project will become more complicated with the more joints you have. It’s more work because there are more sheets and more taping, but also there is more room for error.
Use the longest and largest sheets of drywall possible. Do not worry about the cost. It’s better not to have too much and drywall isn’t a very expensive material.