going to drywall a ceiling in an addition( master bedroom, bath, and closet), how do I figure the # of sheets?

Question

Should I figure the total floor space, or do I need to figure each room separately so that I have tapered edges for all rooms?

Answer 1

First, I recommend that you use 4'x8' drywall for your ceiling, unless you have enough help to be able to handle 4'x12' sheets. I've been able to put up a 4'x8' sheet by myself, using a pair of ladders and a pair of T-shaped supports made out of 2x4s. A second person does make the job much easier, though.

You should measure the length of the room in the direction perpendicular to the direction of the ceiling joists. Calculate how many 8' sheets of drywall are needed to cover this distance. You'll probably have to cut a little bit off the sheet at one end so that the joint will be centered on the joist. The sheet on the other end will also probably have some scrap after it is cut to length.

Now move over 4' and repeat the calculation, except that you should stagger the joints by half the length of the drywall. Also, when you do the layout, try to incorporate the scrap pieces on the ends. Repeat until you've finished the room. The last row will probably need to be cut in width as well as length.

The number of sheets of drywall you'll need will end up being approximately equal to the floor area divided by 32 plus 20%, rounded up. The inflation factor 20% will vary, depending on how efficiently you can use the scrap pieces. The number will tend to be lower for large projects, where there will be greater opportunity to use different size scrap. There will always be some waste.

Answer 2

tech dude was theoretically correct. but as someone who has rocked for some time. he missed a few points.

ceilings - are the joists perfectly level - if not, then they will need to be shimmed and furring strips should be used, 1x2 works good, perpendicular to the joists 16" on center.
unless you're used to working with your hands above your head most of the day, consider using drywall with a ceiling rating, it's a little lighter.

fasteners - 1-1/4 drywall screws or if you wanna nail it, use two nails about an inch apart wherever you would put one screw - each nail helps hold the other nail in to avoid nail pops.

buy some beer and have some buddies help- it goes so much quicker.

space your screws 16" apart along the furring strips or joists 32-36 per 8' sheet.

dont bother with rez channel

if you wear a cap, pry the button off the top - you'll know why, the first time you try to hold a sheet up with your head.


if you got help, get the longest sheets you can that will fit in the room and that you can handle. 8' sheets - more taping. also find out of your're allowed to use 3/8 ceiling board, some jurisdictions dont allow it, but if you can, definately. i'd rather hang a 3/8 x12' than a couple 1/2x8'

just some pointers to help