Ceiling drywall...what's the difference?

Question

I was going to use regular drywall for my ceiling until a friend told me that they always use the 4 x 12 sheets of ceiling drywall. Could someone please advise me on this. It's hard enough getting the 4 x 8 sheets up let alone the 4 x 12. Is ceiling drywall really that much better or can I stick with the regular drywall?

Answer 1

It doesn't matter as long as the finishing is done right. On a ceiling the thickness is more important because it can sag between the ceiling joists especially if it's insulated above and the spacing of ceiling joists is also important in the decision. 5/8 thick drywall comes in regular which is cheaper and anti-sag or as it's sometimes called, hi-abuse board, which is a little more expensive. I would go with regular 5/8 thick 4X8 drywall even though it's a considerable amount heavier than 1/2 thick 4x8. When you do the finishing remember, there's nothing that you can't go back and fix if it doesn't look right after it dries and you've sanded it. You can always go back and point it up. If you're going to texture the ceiling than there is room for error.

Answer 2

Ceiling Board Drywall

Answer 3

I don't know much about types of drywall outside of NZ, but if its good enough for the walls, then it certainly is good enough for the ceiling. I always use standard drywall all over, except where moisture/steam, noise, critical lighting, bracing, radiation or fire require a different grade. Most people paint ceilings with a flat finish, and so the quality of the surface thus becomes academic. If a longer sheet will get damaged going up the stairs, then go for the shorter.

If the surface needs a semi gloss or more shiny paint, then you should talk to your plasterer.

Answer 4

You can use the 4x8 sheets:) The "Pros" just normally use the 12 footers to cut down on the extra joints, mudding & taping. You'll still need a friend to help you hold it up though, unless you have a jack set, so you might keep it in mind and just go ahead and use the 12' sheets?? Just grab an extra Buddy for a couple of hours;) I would take into consideration how large the area is...if it's really big, go ahead with the 12's if is isn't too big, use the 8's. If you sketch out your ceiling area, and where your joists are~ you can tell how much extra work it would or wouldn't be.
Good Luck!!

Answer 5

well i would use 5/8 in for ceiling 4/8 sheets or 4/12 and rent a drywall lift or have several friends there to help! the 5/8 is needed if your going to insulate the attic 1/2 or less and the ceiling may sag or worse cave in when you blow in insulation

Answer 6

the dry wall is just dry wall...the size of it is a moot issue. In a bathroom, however, i would consider using 'green board', because of the moisture.
In a bathroom there are seldom any areas large enough to call for 12 foot rock any way...get the 8 ft, and save yourself that much in the differance in the cost of the 'waistage'...

It's the tape job that will matter...not hte nomber of sheets.

Answer 7

Your kidding right. I think it might be that the ceiling fan is attached to the ceiling and a table fan is one that is free standing and you move around to where you want it. This is just a guess though.

Answer 8

The only difference is, with a 4x8 sheet you will have more butt joints to mudd and sand. because it is not a long as the 4x12. I would use 4x8, your right 4x8 is hard enough to put on.

Answer 9

the bigger sheet has less joints if you are doing your own ceiling please rent a sheet rock lifting jack from a tool rental store.

Answer 10

I always just use regular dry wall.