Replies

1. 
   carl_cathcart | Dec 25, 1998 11:57pm | #1

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   when hanging drywall horizontaly on the wall is it better to hang the top or bottom first?

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   JonC_ | Dec 26, 1998 12:41am | #2

   *It is usually hung from the top down so you can apply it tight to the ceiling. This also gives you factory edges for taping. If you havent hung "rock" before you'll need a kicker, a foot operated lever to push the bottom board up tight to the one above it. Remember the sheetrocker's mantra is,"factory edge to factory edge". Good luck.

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   Guest_ | Dec 26, 1998 12:45am | #3

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   Another reason for top-down is that any small gaps will be at the floor where they will be covered by the wood base. If you have 9' ceilings, look for 4'6" material which will install with only one horizontal joint. Don't forget to stagger the joints.

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   Guest_ | Dec 26, 1998 12:58am | #4

   *Carl: Hang the top piece first. It's easier that way - you just keep it pushed up against the drywall that you've already mounted on the ceiling while you screw or nail it in place. Then place the lower piece underneath and, with one or two flat prybars ("Wonderbar", not to be confused with the Wonderbra) press it up against the upper sheet with your foot on the prybar and use your two free hands to place a few screws/nails. Note that a standard height wall makes this really fast and efficient of materials. 1/2" or 5/8" drywall on ceiling + 48" upper sheet + 48" lower sheet + 1/4" or 1/8" gap at bottom = 96 3/4" = 3" for two top plates + 1 1/2" bottom plate + 92 1/4" pre-cut stud.If you don't have standard height walls, then you especially want to hang the upper pieces first. All you measurements and cuts will be on the lower pieces where it is easier to measure and adjust. Layout the sheets so that as many cuts as possible are hidden behind other sheets at corners or under the baseboard at the bottom. Place those factory tapered 96" edges as the horizontal seam at 4 foot height - the factory seams are the easiest to tape well and inconspicuously.Why are you hanging drywall on Christmas Day? Go open some presents!-David

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   carl_cathcart | Dec 26, 1998 01:01am | #5

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