How to Install a Drywall Ceiling : Decorating : Home …

Acoustic panels or other ceiling treatments can be replaced easily by a drywall ceiling, giving your room a more streamlined look.

Materials and Tools:

drywall lift straightedge ladders power drill utility knife hammer five-in-one painter's tool mud masher scrubber nail puller mud tray drywall knife carpenter's pencil gloves mask safety glasses sheets of drywall drywall mud drywall tape drywall screws

Steps:

1. Remove the old ceiling tiles and pull out any old nails. Scrape off any bumps of old adhesive using a utility knife and hammer. Make sure to wear safety goggles.

2. Remove any ceiling-mounted light fixtures. Turn the power off first, and check the fixture with a voltage detector to make sure it's off.

3. Use the straightedge to mark rows on the drywall for the screws. Fit the first piece of drywall in the drywall lift and hoist it into place. Start in the corner and work your way out.

4. Attach the drywall using drywall screws and a power drill. Space the screws about six to eight inches apart. If it's a shiplap ceiling (smooth wood panels), the screws can be attached anywhere. Otherwise, they would have to go into the center of the ceiling joists. Continue until all the drywall is installed.

6. Load up a tray with mud, whip it with the drywall knife until it's nice and soft. Start filling in the screw holes first.

7. Next start on the seams. Place a thick layer of mud on a seam, then center a piece of drywall tape along the seam. Cover the tape with a little more mud and smooth it out with your drywall knife.

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How to Install a Drywall Ceiling : Decorating : Home ...