Drywall
Stocking
Drywall should be stocked on the jobsite during framing. Schedule the board to be delivered before windows. This will make it easier for staging throughout the house.
Installation
“Hanging rock” takes crews about two to eight days, depending on the size and complexity of the project and the number of hangers that are working. We built a house in Prescott, AZ that was 4200 square feet. The hanging crew assigned was very experienced and finished the job in less than 5 days.
The lid is hung first. Sheets are screwed into framing members rather than nailed. This prevents them from falling. Wall board is most often nailed but if the stucco crews have applied mud, it is important to insist on the drywall being screwed. Nailing sheetrock into exterior wall studs can cause cracking in the stucco. It’s important to check your approved plans. Nail and screw schedules will be in the details.
Immediately following installation, scrap crews should remove remaining sheet rock from the jobsite. If this has not happened within 24 hours of drywall finish, call your subcontractor and raise a fuss.
Drywall Nail Inspection
Your sheetrock contractor should be available to walk with the building inspector. They will know what the required nail schedule is and will be able to address any outstanding issues. The owner builder can walk the jobsite before the inspector arrives. While they may not see all the details, it is easy to identify large gaps in the nailing.
For more on the drywall nail and other building inspections, visit the building inspections page.
Taping
Texture
Texture is applied in a few different ways. Skip trowel is used to create a random, natural texture. This is very popular. It is more labor intensive than other methods so may cost a bit more. Knock down is very popular as well. Texture mud is shot at the wall and a trowel is used to “knock down” the peaks. Smooth finish is just what it says.
Any way you go, there will be a mess when they’re done. Touch base with the foreman and call the office of your subcontractor to ensure immediate muck out of material and mud.
Comment About Crews
Sheetrock crews and taping crews are traditionally fairly messy. This may include their materials but also their lunches and drinks. Set firm rules to be followed on your jobsite for cleanliness. Every subcontractor should be aware of your expectations when they sign a contract to work on your project.
The Impact of Weather on Drywall Mud
If the tape and texture on your home takes place during the rainy season or in winter, there is a very good chance that it will take longer to complete. Mud dries at it’s own pace, there is not a lot you can do about it sometimes. Ask your trade contractor about their ability to accelerate the drying process in winter or during wet times. They may have heaters or fans that they employ to help with the process.
