Installing drywall seems easy from out of the box but it is a skilled trade which requires in depth attention to detail, the right tools and a great deal of hands on experience. Also many home owners and some non trained contractors get into the issue of going with an inexperienced drywall installer which in turn produces frustrating and costly results.
At Atlantic Builders LLC we have first hand experience with the results of poor sheetrock installation and what issues it causes. In this blog we will be looking at the most common errors made by novice installers, how to identify them, and also we will put forth the case for why you should use experienced drywall contractors for that flawless finish.
Poor Measurement and Cutting Techniques
One out of the gate issues that new drywall installers have is with measurement and cutting. What we see time and again is that novices in this trade do:.
- Cut panels too short or unevenly
- Misalign holes for outlets or switches
- Do not provide enough room for growth.
These issues result in out of place gaps, unneeded patching, and waste of materials. Exact measurements and clean cuts are a must for a professional look.
Over- or Under-Screwing the Panels
Another thing that amateur drywall installers do which is a no go is drive screws in too far. What happens is the head of the screw breaks through the paper on the drywall’s face which in turn weakens the whole shebang. Also if you don’t drive them in far enough you get these little protrusions which in turn makes the taping and finishing a pain.
Experienced drywallers use depth controlled screws which also they know how to do without in fact damaging the panel.
Failing to Properly Stagger Seams
In sheetrock application a basic rule is to stagger the seams which in turn increases wall strength and minimizes cracking. Also it is noted that many a time we see green hands put in seams too near to each other or in straight vertical lines which in end weakens the whole structure.
Staged out seams which are put in alignment do a better job of even stress distribution which in turn makes the drywall taping and finishing process go more smoothly and longer.
Poor Joint Taping and Finishing
Arguably what we see the most of is poor quality work from untrained gypsum board installers. Taping of joints is a skill which when done well creates a very smooth transition between panels it is that which is often done badly.
Common errors include: Here are some errors that:.
- Visible tape lines under paint
- Over-sanding or under-sanding joints
- Uneven compound application
These issues produce uneven patches, cracks and ridges which in turn destroy the look of your walls.
Ignoring Ceiling Drywall Best Practices
Ceiling drywall installation is a more complex job. We require better support, proper panel orientation (perpindicular to joists) and very careful use of fasteners.
Inexperienced drywall installers often: In some cases new drywall installers tend to:.
- Use the wrong type of drywall
- Fail to secure panels adequately
- Overlook bowing or sagging issues
Ceiling cracks and drooping panels are a sign of bad work in overhead installations.
Skipping Pre-Fill of Large Gaps or Seams
Professional drywallers know that for large gaps between panels you must use compound to fill them in before taping. Novices often leave out this step which in turn causes tape bubbles, joint failure and visible seams once painted.
Prefill for best adhesion, smoothest finishes, and longest lasting results.
Inadequate Surface Preparation Before Painting
After drywall taping and finishing out it is at this stage that proper surface preparation is key. Many installers skip over this step which is a mistake they do not pay attention to details like:.
- Priming the surface
- Removing all dust from sanding
- Ensuring even texture application
- Without proper prep even the best paint job will cover up.
Improper Texture Application
Drywall texturing is an art. Whether you are out for a flat finish, a tangerine peel, or a knock down look that perfect — it is skill which is required to do it evenly.
Inexperienced installers may: Unskilled installers may:.
- Use inconsistent pressure
- Apply excess or insufficient texture.
- Fail to integrate patches into their surroundings.
- These issues are very apparent and are reworked by the senior staff.
Inability to Handle Wallboard Repairs Properly
When it comes to patching in existing walls, wallboard repair pros pay attention to which materials they use; they’ll match up the thickness, seam patterns, and texture. Home renovators do not always use the right materials or put in the blend work, which in turn makes the repair work stand out.
A poor repair job may actually draw more attention to itself then the original damage did.
Final Thoughts
Drywall isn’t just about nailing up some boards to the wall it’s the base for your home’s interior. We see the results of inexperience from time to time in the form of cracks, bulges, and not at all professional looking walls which in turn cost you on repair and paint jobs. Out of improper measurements to poor drywall texture application we have seen it all and it is avoidable with the right expertise.
At Atlantic Builders LLC we focus on perfect sheet rock installation, exact drywall hanging and professional ceiling drywall installation. We have experience in new build and renovation our team see to it that each panel is put in, taped and finished to a perfect finish. Steer clear of do it yourself mishaps we are the professionals that pay attention to the details.
Read More: DIY vs. Professional Drywall Repair: Making the Right Choice
Frequently Asked Questions
What signs can I look for that my drywall was installed poorly?
Visible signs are large seams, bubble tape, screw divots, and rough textures. If you see cracks or poor workmanship that goes beyond what is normal in the trade, most likely what you are looking at is the handiwork of unskilled drywall installers.
Can bad drywall installation be fixed?
Yes of course that is the case which to say minor defects can be touched up and repainted, with major issues may have to see whole sections of drywall replaced.
Is it worth using professional drywall contractors?
Absolutely. Professionals also bring to the table better structural integrity, a cleaner finish, and reduced need for repairs in the future.
How long does drywall installation take?
A standard room will take us from one to three days which depends on the job’s complexity, the drying time between taping and finishing, also if drywall texture is to be applied.
