How to cut and install drywall

Drywall, or plasterboard is used extensively in stud partitioning. Drywalls help to quickly and easily build interior walls to create new spaces within your home. While drywall is reasonably heavy, it is easy to work with once you get the knack of it. Cutting, trimming and installing drywall all require a set of skills which require their own techniques and approaches. By getting each technique right, you can unlock a whole new range of possibilities in your home. While drywall is reasonably heavy, it is easy to work with once you get the knack of it. By getting each technique right, you can unlock a whole new range of possibilities in your home.

Equipment required to cut and install a drywall

• Measuring tape
• Utility knife
• Straight edge
• Drywall saw and keyhole saw
• Drywall rasp or sanding block
• Safety glasses
• Power drill
• Drywall panel

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How to cut drywall?

Drywall, or plasterboard is used extensively in stud partitioning. Drywalls help to quickly and easily build interior walls to create new spaces within your home. Cutting, trimming and installing drywall all require a set of skills which require their own techniques and approaches.

Cutting Drywall

Firstly, take a straight edge to the drywall where you wish to make a cut and score along it three times with a Stanley knife. This should create a groove which will split the plasterboard with a light folding motion. When the plasterboard splits, simply run the knife along the remaining edge for a clean cut. It may be the case that you then need to trim the drywall to get the neatest possible finish.

Trimming Drywall

Once you have cut your drywall to size, you may have ragged edges to deal with. This is a problem because plasterboard often has to sit flush against the next sheet to create a uniform appearance. There are shaving tools available which look similar to cheese graters. These devices can be used to shave off excess plaster and provide a flush edge that is necessary to create a clean cut. 

How to install Drywall?

Measuring and Basic Preparation

Begin by first measuring the width of the wall and cut the drywall sheet so it is about 1⁄4-inch shorter that your measurement. Then you will need someone to help you prop the drywall up and position it tight against the ceiling. Unsure if you have the right equipment or experience, many choose to hire a professional plasterer to reduce the stress of the DIY approach, to ensure the job gets done to the highest standards and avoid the installation having to be fixed by a professional later and costing more.

Installing Drywall

Once you have cut and trimmed your drywall into neat sheets, the next move is to start installing them. Drywall should be fixed with screws and sensitively drilled in place. Be careful when you drill into the drywall as cracks can easily appear and ruin your sheet if you use too much force. Make sure to take your time when applying screws.

Plan for Other Fixtures

Since drywall is cut around doors and windows before the casings are attached, a perfect fit isn’t necessary. While professional drywall hangers often use a special high-speed rotary tool to cut around openings with the sheet in place, most do-it-yourself projects will involve measuring and cutting the sheet before it is installed.

A handyman can sometimes help you with the ‘odd jobs’ and tasks range from minor to major, include painting, drywall repair, household carpentry and furniture assembly. There are two important questions that should be answered before you kick start a plastering job: "How much does plastering cost?", and, "Is plastering a DIY or a task for professionals?" We have prepared a 2020 guide on "How much does plastering costs" for different types of plasterboard, partitioning, wet plaster, ornamental plaster or plaster repairs.

Plastering FAQs

What types of plastering finishes are there?

There is smooth cast finish, roughcast finish, sand faced finish, pebbledash finish and scraped finish. We recommend discussing which is best for you with your plasterer and browsing through examples of each finish. 

Is plastering messy? 

Plaster can result in a small amount of dust but most professionals will clean this away as part of their service! 

How long does plaster take to dry?

You should expect the plaster to take anywhere from two to six days to dry. This depends on the time of year, surface and other factors.

How long does it take to plaster a room?

On average, you can expect most rooms to be plastered in one or two days. However, this is a 

great question to ask when taking quotes! 

When does the plastering commence? 

Best answered by your plasterer, however once all the formalities and paperwork is completed usually immediately! An inspection of the site may be necessary but most workers will begin early around 8 or 9 am.