The most affordable, popular and the simplest way to renovate your homes and finished basements, offices and multiunit buildings are installing drywall. This suitable method is used for both ceilings and walls. Though it can be done as a DIY project, hanging and taping drywall requires experience, patience, a lot of time, attention to details and skill, which is why most of us choose to hire a professional. Whereas professional drywall installation will cost slightly higher.
The first step, hanging drywall, involves attaching the drywall to joists and studs with nails or screws. Drywall taping involves many steps, such as
- Filling the seams, nails and screw heads with joint compound.
- Applying tape over the joints.
- Drying the compound.
- Sanding the first coat.
- Applying second and third layers the same way.
After drywall taping, the only remaining tasks are priming, painting and trim work.
The cost of drywall installation depends on the amount, the thickness and quality of the drywall to be hung, the difficulty of the project and your location. Some contractors charge by the square foot to install and tape; while others by the hour or the number of sheets.
- The prices range from $0.50 to $2 by the square foot. The average drywall installation cost is closer to $0.70 to $1.80 per square foot, without the price of materials.
- The material itself costs from $6 to $15 per sheet, depending on quality and thickness, with the average price from $8 to $10 per sheet.
- Professional drywall installation and taping will cost about $20 to $60 by the hour. In this case, materials may or may not be included.
- The least common method of estimation is per sheet, budget from $50 to $100, including materials.
Priming, painting and trim work typically add at least $0.40 to $1 per square foot.
The cost estimate does not include:
- Replacing drywall costs for removing, repairing, relocating or modifying existing framing, HVAC, surfacing, electrical and plumbing systems, bringing those systems into compliance with current building codes.
- Testing and remediation of hazardous materials costs for (asbestos, lead-based paint, potential trouble spots).
- supervision of general contractor of the overall project (additional 13% to 22% to the total cost)
- Permission or inspection assistance by your local building department.
Before making any decisions or commitments for accurate assessments of required work we recommend to contact reputable professionals.
