Drywall Installation
Drywall, also referred to as plasterboard, is used in the construction of walls and ceilings. Quick to install and easy to repair, it is one of the most commonly used building materials across North America. If you have drywall that needs to be repaired or refinished, hiring a contractor is the best way to save yourself valuable time and effort and ensure this vital job is completed without any mistakes
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If you are looking for drywall contractors, use the Handy platform to find them quickly and easily. Enter your zip code, answer some questions about your drywall repair or drywall installation project, and we will connect you with local experts.
Drywall Cost
The cost of your drywall project will depend on several factors, including the size of the job, the materials required, and the labor costs of your contractor. Here is a quick breakdown of what to expect.
Materials
The exact cost of materials will depend on the size and thickness required, but drywall prices typically range from $9.50 to $18* per sheet. Your contractor may be able to get a discount for buying the materials in bulk, so it is worth checking before purchasing anything yourself.
Labor
Basic labor costs for drywall installation range from $231-$280*, based on a surface area of 200 square feet.
Drywall repair
Smaller holes in drywall can be fixed with a drywall patch for $75-$150*, while more serious problems such as cracks or water damage can cost between $220 and $380*.
Drywall finishing
There are five different levels for drywall finishing, depending on where it is being installed and the overall look you want to achieve. For a contractor to install and finish drywall up to Level 4 (three coatings of compound) you should expect to pay $1.80-$3.10* per square foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my wall is drywall?
There are a few ways to tell if the wall you are looking at is drywall. You can push a thumbtack into a drywall patch (in a spot where you do not mind a tiny hole), to test the hardness of the wall. Drywall is soft and will not crack. You can also determine if a wall is drywall by removing a switch plate and looking, you will often be able to see right away what kind of wall it is. If the wires are loose, it is most likely a plaster wall. If the wires in enclosed in a box, the wall is most likely drywall.
Is plaster better than drywall?
It really depends on what you want from your walls. While plaster is more soundproof, drywall usually means better insulation which can save you on heating costs. There are pros and cons to both.
How much weight can drywall hold?
Drywall can support a bit more weight than you think. A ¼” toggle bolt can support several hundred pounds, and in theory, you should be spreading the weight of whatever you're hanging over several different anchors. If you are unsure, ask a professional.
*Cost estimates referenced are sourced from HomeAdvisor, Angie’s List and other national home improvement websites.