| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Average Cost Per Square Foot: $1.50 – $3.50 |
| Cost for 12′ x 12′ Bedroom: $580 – $1,800 |
| Cost for 2,000 SF House: $8,000 – $30,000 |
| DIY vs. Professional Installation: Significant cost differences |
Drywall Cost
The cost of drywall installation depends primarily on the size of the area to be drywalled. Here are some average costs:
| Room | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 5′ x 8′ Bathroom | $300 – $1,000 |
| 12′ x 12′ Bedroom | $580 – $1,800 |
| 12′ x 20′ Primary Bedroom | $750 – $2,600 |
| 16′ x 20′ Living Room | $850 – $3,100 |
| 20′ x 20′ Garage | $1,000 – $3,900 |
| 1,000 SF Basement | $1,500 – $7,000 |
| 1,500 SF Whole House | $5,500 – $22,000 |
| 2,000 SF Whole House | $8,000 – $30,000 |
| 2,500 SF Whole House | $9,000 – $35,000 |
| 3,000 SF Whole House | $10,000 – $45,000 |
Drywall Cost Calculator
Drywall Installation Cost
The cost to install drywall varies based on the type of installation necessary:
| Item | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Install Drywall Walls | $1.50 – $3.50 |
| Install Drywall Ceiling | $1.50 – $3.80 |
| Replace Existing Drywall | $2.00 – $6.00 |
Drywall Cost Per Square Foot
Breaking down the costs further:
| Item | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Drywall Materials | $0.50 – $0.80 |
| Installation Labor and Finishing | $1.00 – $2.70 |
| Total | $1.50 – $3.50 |
Cost to Hang Drywall
The cost to hang drywall typically ranges from $0.85 to $1.90 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job and the level of finish required.
Cost to Finish Drywall
The finishing process can add additional costs:
| Level | Cost per Square Foot | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $0.85 – $1.90 | Drywall hung with no tape, mud, or finish |
| 1 | $1.15 – $2.15 | Concealed areas or attics |
| 2 | $1.30 – $2.60 | Has one coat of compound for storage areas or tiled walls |
| 3 | $1.50 – $2.75 | Walls that receive a medium to heavy texture |
| 4 | $1.70 – $3.20 | Walls that receive a light texture or flat paint |
| 5 | $1.75 – $3.50 | Smooth finish for walls that receive satin or glossy paint |
Average Cost to Hang and Finish Drywall Per Sheet
The average cost to hang and finish a sheet of drywall is typically factored into the overall per-square-foot cost but can fluctuate based on specific project requirements.
Cost to Texture Drywall
Texturing drywall can cost between $0.80 and $2.00 per square foot, depending on the type of texture desired.
Labor Cost to Install Drywall
Labor costs for drywall installation can vary widely based on expertise, location, and job complexity. Typically, labor alone can range from $1.00 to $2.70 per square foot.
Average Cost to Drywall a Room
Cost to drywall different room sizes typically includes both materials and labor:
| Room | Drywall Square Feet | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 5′ x 8′ Bathroom | 200 – 250 | $300 – $1,000 |
| 12′ x 12′ Bedroom | 380 – 530 | $580 – $1,800 |
| 12′ x 20′ Primary Bedroom | 510 – 750 | $750 – $2,600 |
| 16′ x 20′ Living Room | 580 – 900 | $850 – $3,100 |
| 20′ x 20′ Garage | 730 – 1,130 | $1,000 – $3,900 |
| 1,000 SF Basement | 1,000 – 2,000 | $1,500 – $7,000 |
Cost to Drywall a Garage
Garages often require special considerations due to exposure to the elements:
| Garage Size | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-Car Garage | $800 – $2,800 |
| 2-Car Garage | $1,000 – $3,900 |
| 3-Car Garage | $1,700 – $5,000 |
Cost to Drywall a Basement
Basements can vary greatly in cost due to size and potential moisture issues:
| Basement Size | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Small (700 SF) | $1,200 – $6,000 |
| Average (1,000 SF) | $1,500 – $7,000 |
| Large (1,500 SF) | $2,000 – $9,000 |
Cost to Drywall a Whole House
The cost to drywall an entire home is significant, factoring in materials, labor, and finishes:
| House Size (Square Feet) | Drywall Square Feet | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1,200 | 4,200 – 6,000 | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| 1,500 | 5,500 – 7,200 | $5,500 – $22,000 |
| 2,000 | 8,000 – 10,000 | $8,000 – $30,000 |
| 2,500 | 9,000 – 12,500 | $9,000 – $35,000 |
| 3,000 | 10,500 – 14,500 | $10,000 – $45,000 |
Cost to Drywall a Ceiling
Drywalling a ceiling can be more labor-intensive due to the overhead work:
| Room | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Bathroom | $60 – $150 |
| Bedroom | $210 – $550 |
| Primary Bedroom or Living Room | $360 – $1,200 |
| Garage | $600 – $1,500 |
| Basement | $900 – $3,500 |
Cost to Replace Drywall
Replacing drywall includes the cost of removing and disposing of old drywall and installing new sheets:
| Job | Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Old Drywall Removal and Disposal | $0.50 – $2.50 |
| Install New Drywall | $1.50 – $3.50 |
| Total | $2.00 – $6.00 |
Cost to Remove Wood Paneling and Replace with Drywall
Factoring in the removal and replacement of materials can affect total costs.
Cost to Remove Plaster and Replace with Drywall
Plaster removal is typically more labor-intensive and may increase overall costs.
Average Cost of Drywall
Costs vary by type and brand. Common drywall types include standard, moisture-resistant, and fire-resistant.
Sheetrock Cost
Sheetrock, a brand-name drywall, generally falls within the cost ranges mentioned for standard drywall materials.
Cost Factors to Install Drywall
Several factors can influence the overall cost of a drywall project:
Drywall Work in Older Homes
Older homes may present challenges such as non-standard framing, lead paint, or uneven surfaces.
Additional Upgrades for Drywall Jobs
Consider additional costs for soundproofing, insulation, or specialized materials.
DIY Cost to Put Up Drywall
For those considering a DIY approach, here is a breakdown of costs:
| Material | Price per 500 Square Feet |
|---|---|
| Drywall | $160 – $320 |
| Mud / Joint Compound | $14 – $16 |
| Tape | $3 – $12 |
| Screws | $20 – $40 |
| Corner Bead* | $3 – $12 |
| Total | $200 – $400 |
Drywall Installation FAQs
What is Drywall?
Drywall is a construction material made from gypsum plaster pressed between thick sheets of paper. It is used to create interior walls and ceilings.
How Long Does It Take to Hang Drywall?
The time to hang drywall can vary based on the project’s size and complexity, but a typical room might take one to two days for hanging and another two to three days for finishing.
How to Calculate How Much Drywall I Need
Use the following table to estimate the number of sheets needed for common projects:
| Project | Drywall Sheets Needed (Walls Only) | Drywall Sheets Needed (Walls and Ceiling) |
|---|---|---|
| 5′ x 8′ Bathroom | 5 – 6 | 6 – 8 |
| 12′ x 12′ Bedroom | 10 – 12 | 12 – 18 |
| 12′ x 20′ Primary Bedroom | 12 – 16 | 16 – 24 |
| 16′ x 20′ Living Room | 12 – 18 | 20 – 28 |
| 20′ x 20′ Garage | 16 – 24 | 24 – 36 |
| 1,000 SF Basement | 22 – 60 | 45 – 80 |
| 1,500 SF Whole House | 115 – 150 | 150 – 225 |
| 2,000 SF Whole House | 170 – 210 | 210 – 315 |
| 2,500 SF Whole House | 190 – 260 | 260 – 390 |
| 3,000 SF Whole House | 220 – 300 | 300 – 450 |
How Much Drywall Tape Do I Need?
As a general rule, you’ll need about one roll of tape for every 500 square feet of drywall.
How Much Joint Compound Do I Need Per Sheet of Drywall?
For standard joint compound, expect to use about 1.5 to 2 gallons per 4′ x 8′ sheet of drywall.
Do You Need a Permit to Replace Drywall?
Permit requirements vary by location, but many areas require a permit for significant drywall work, particularly if electrical or plumbing modifications are involved.
How Much Do Drywallers Make?
The average drywaller earns between $20 and $40 per hour, though this can vary greatly based on experience, location, and the complexity of the job.
How Long Does Drywall Last?
Drywall can last for decades under normal conditions but may need to be replaced if exposed to excessive moisture or physical damage.
What is the Difference Between Drywall and Plaster?
Here is a comparison between drywall and plaster:
| Drywall | Plaster |
|---|---|
| Cheaper | Thicker |
| Cracks less | Fire-retardant |
| Faster and easier to install | More labor-intensive and requires multiple coats |
| Minimal drying time | Longer drying time |
| Better insulating | Stronger and more durable |
| More soundproof |
Tips for Hiring a Drywall Installer
Finding the right professional is crucial for a successful drywall project. Here are some tips:
Questions to Ask Sheetrock Installers
- How many years of experience do you have?
- Can you provide references from past clients?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What is your estimated timeline for completion?
- How do you handle unexpected issues or changes in the project scope?
By understanding the costs and processes associated with drywall installation, you can better plan your project and budget. Whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional, this guide should provide a clear overview of what to expect.
