Ideas for Drywalling Ceilings

Assistance

• It's nearly impossible to drywall a ceiling on your own, because sheetrock comes in large sizes and is heavier to lift than you might imagine. One or more people should support the weight of the sheetrock panels while another nails it in place. Once it's suspended, partners can work together to apply joint compound and even the texture of the plaster.

Textures

• Adding texture to your ceiling will give the interior space a sense of completion and a professional-quality finish. When you think of ceiling textures, popcorn may come to mind. However, this aesthetic is considered dated to some plasterers. Another common texture style is called "mud swirl." This involves slathering a spatula with plaster, applying it to the ceiling and smoothing it with a fan motion to create a swirled effect. Another texture style is called "knockdown," in which plaster is sprayed on the ceiling then smoothed down with a spatula, leaving some unevenness in the finish.

Tools

• To drywall your ceiling, you'll need certain tools. For example, you'll need a nail gun to attach the drywall to the ceiling trusses. A commercial panel lift and a vertical brace will help keep the sheetrock in place while it's being installed. Tape is used to bind the panels together. You'll need plastic and metal spatulas for applying the joint compound. Straight blades designed for cutting sheetrock will also help when fitting the panels to your ceiling.

Insulation

• Before installing drywall, it's a good idea to add insulation. This will help with heating and cooling the space. While insulation will likely cost more during installation, it'll help you save on your energy bills in the long run. Spray foam and fiberglass insulation are perhaps the most common options, though denim and even hay are now being employed because they're more environmentally-conscious. Insulation is especially important when finishing attic and basement spaces.