The DIY movement is here to stay, and it can make just about anyone feel up to the challenge of a home improvement project. That’s fine for those who can handle it, but this isn’t something to take lightly. One of the most common tasks is drywall installation, which may seem simple at first glance, but can produce some obstacles. Here are some ways to bypass some drywall flaws that most DIYers will be familiar with. If these issues have already come to pass, there are solutions for how to handle the problem without making a bigger mess.
Screwed-Up Instability
It’s easy to take the stability of the drywall for granted, but it’s important to be on the lookout for things that could disrupt its structural integrity. For instance, placing screws too deep into the drywall can harm the wallboard or its paper face. This, in turn, can lead to instability because the screws can’t do their proper job of holding the unit in place. Before painting over this mistake, take some steps to protect this DIY project. First, if the screwing job is already done, don’t bother taking the failed screw out. Keep it there and try driving a new one in next to the previous one. Drill guns can make the process even easier because they’re able to be set to specific depths.
Issues with the Joints
The joints of the drywall shouldn’t be so close to each other that their edges touch. There needs to be some space to account for the expansion of the drywall during construction. Some DIYers tend to place the joints (or seams) right up against each other for a perfect fit, but this is far from perfect. Whichever joint a person chooses, there should always be some wiggle room. That being said, a tapered joint is most likely to lead to success, as people can fill in the area with tape or mud. Hanging joints are placed precariously over empty spaces, so if possible, builders should avoid them. Moreover, the space between drywall sheets doesn’t have to be big; an eighth of an inch is all it takes. It’s enough to prevent the sheets from toppling, but also accounts for growth and expansion.
Drive Popped Nails Home
Finally, popped nails make up the majority of drywall problems. Folks need to do a thorough inspection of their walls before painting to ensure that they don’t have an awkward bulge from a nail. They sometimes “pop” while the installation process is nearing completion, or even afterward. Sometimes the nail head will brush up against the surface, hence the bump. Other times, it bursts right through, revealing the nail head for all to see. The solution? Driving new screws into the drywall, preferably on either side of the popped nail. This puts less pressure on the middle nail, so builders can hammer it back into place. Remember that driving the screws too far in it will produce the problem mentioned in point number one. Lastly, a joint compound can seal those screws in place for good.
Sam knew there had to be more opportunity in the marketplace, albeit in an industry he already had experience with. So, while working for the lumber company during the week, Sam would start to take on some painting projects on the side during the weekends. This would go on for over a year until the Spring of 2017. It seemed the perfect time to go all in on the painting. He gave his two weeks’ notice and was told, “the door is always open for you here.” That was a nice sentiment, and as it turned out, that lumber company would become one of Painter Pro’s first and largest customers. Sam would continue working closely with the lumber company on their projects and facilities.