Hang and Finish Drywall
Drywall transforms your addition from an open framing skeleton into actual rooms. The quality of your drywall finish directly impacts paint appearance—rushed or sloppy work will show through every coat of paint for years to come.
Quick Summary
Time needed
3-7 days
Cost
$1.50-$3.00/sq ft
Professional help
Highly recommended
Why This Step Matters
Drywall finishing is an art that takes years to master. Even slight imperfections become glaringly obvious once paint is applied, especially in areas with natural light hitting walls at an angle. Professional drywall work costs more but pays dividends in final appearance.
Common Mistake
Using 1/2" drywall on ceilings causes sagging over time. Always use 5/8" drywall for ceilings, and consider 5/8" fire-rated (Type X) for garage walls and ceilings per code requirements.
Choosing the Right Drywall Thickness
| Location | Thickness | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Standard walls | 1/2" | Most common, cost-effective |
| Ceilings | 5/8" | Prevents sagging between joists |
| Garage walls/ceilings | 5/8" Type X | Fire-rated per code |
| Bathrooms | 1/2" moisture-resistant | Green board or purple board |
| Curved walls | 1/4" | Flexible for bending |
The Drywall Process
Hanging the Drywall
Drywall is hung starting with ceilings, then walls. Sheets are installed horizontally on walls (stronger and fewer seams to tape). Proper screwing pattern prevents popping and cracking.
- • Screws every 12" on ceilings, 16" on walls
- • Screws set just below surface without breaking paper
- • Stagger seams between rows and from ceiling joints
- • Cut openings for outlets, switches, and fixtures
First Coat (Taping)
Joint compound ("mud") is applied over all seams, and paper or mesh tape is embedded. Corner bead is installed on outside corners. This coat must dry completely (24 hours minimum).
Pro tip: Paper tape is stronger than mesh tape and less prone to cracking, especially on flat seams. Most pros use paper tape for seams and mesh tape only for repairs.
Second Coat (Blocking)
A wider layer of mud is applied over the first coat, feathering out 8-10 inches on each side of the seam. Screw heads get their second coat. Allow 24 hours drying time.
Third Coat (Skim/Finish)
The final coat is the widest (12-14 inches) and thinnest, creating an invisible transition from seam to drywall face. Higher finish levels may require additional coats.
Sanding
Once completely dry, all mudded areas are sanded smooth. This creates significant dust—protect HVAC systems and use dust barriers. A final inspection with a bright light reveals any imperfections needing touch-up.
Dust warning: Drywall dust gets everywhere. Seal off the addition from living spaces with plastic sheeting and turn off HVAC during sanding to protect ductwork.
Drywall Finish Levels Explained
The drywall industry has standardized finish levels from 0-5. Higher levels cost more but provide better results for certain applications.
Level 3
$1.50-$1.80/sq ftTwo coats of mud over tape. Suitable for areas receiving heavy texture or tile. Not recommended for smooth walls or paint.
Level 4
Most CommonThree coats of mud, sanded smooth. Standard for most residential walls receiving flat or eggshell paint. Cost: $2.00-$2.50/sq ft.
Level 5
$2.50-$3.00/sq ftSkim coat over entire surface after Level 4 finishing. Required for glossy paints, critical lighting, or dark colors that highlight imperfections.
Typical Cost Breakdown
For a 500 sq ft addition (measuring wall and ceiling surfaces), expect $750-$1,500 for professional drywall installation and finishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I DIY drywall to save money?
Hanging drywall is manageable for DIYers, but finishing requires significant skill. Poor finishing shows through paint forever. Consider DIY hanging with professional finishing as a cost-saving compromise.
How long should drywall mud dry between coats?
Allow 24 hours between coats in normal conditions. Cold or humid weather extends drying time. Mud should be completely white (no dark spots) before the next coat or sanding.
Should I match the existing texture in my home?
Yes, matching existing texture (orange peel, knockdown, smooth) helps the addition blend with your home. Ask your drywall contractor to match the texture before they finish—it's easier than fixing later.
What causes drywall cracks after finishing?
Cracks typically result from house settling, improper taping, or drying too fast. Minor settling cracks are normal in the first year. If cracks reappear after repair, investigate structural movement.
Ready for the Next Step?
Once your drywall is finished and sanded, it's time to install flooring before painting. Installing flooring first protects walls from damage and allows baseboards to cover flooring edges.