Whether you’re looking to repair or replace existing drywall or redesigning the entire look and feel of your space, many people forget to factor in drywall installation costs. While generally not a complicated budget item to consider, here are a few things you should know.
Quality of material matters
There are a number of ways to determine drywall installation costs. Some contractors charge by the square foot, some by the type of installation, and some offer a per-room rate. The most common factor in all cases is the cost of the drywall material itself.
Determining drywall thickness depends on what it is being used for. Overlays and repairs will use thin drywall. Standard wall and ceiling installations will use something thicker, and even sturdier thicknesses are applied to garage or furnace room installations. Some drywall is designed to be moisture-resistant, which is suitable for bathrooms and laundry areas, whereas fire-resistant drywall is a common choice in parts of the country where wildfires can be an issue.
Each type of drywall will have a base price. A standard half-inch sheet of drywall measuring 4x8 feet will run you between $10 and $20. Moisture-resistant drywall of that same size runs typically between $13 and $25 per sheet, and special sound-proof drywall can run to around $50.
The cost for drywall installation can vary greatly depending on the quality of materials used.
Labor costs can be a factor
While the base cost of most drywall can easily be calculated, the cost of labor has to be considered as well. This will vary partly on the type of installation you need to be done and what your expectations are.
It’s more than just attaching drywall sheets to a frame and calling it a day. Drywall installation also includes time and labor for prep work, finishing, cleanup, and disposal. Are you looking for basic, temporary construction, or do you want fine-coat finishes ready for painting or distinctive textures?
New construction vs. renovation
While it may seem contrary to expectations, it costs more to renovate, repair, or replace drywall than it does to perform a whole new construction. There is less prep work with new construction, and it is easier to arrange bulk pricing for materials. Renovation work requires the removal and disposal of old material, cleaning, and matching existing materials.
Call for a free quote
While your uncle might offer to do your drywall installation on the cheap, a professional installation team is knowledgeable, insured, and offers guaranteed quality service. Not only that, but their experience means they can give you accurate information as to drywall installation costs, how long it will take, and any other issues you should be aware of.
Contact us today for a free quote!
