Here are more materials and tools to think about before your drywall job.
Tape The experts continue to argue the merits of paper versus fiberglass. Paper tape must be applied with a thin layer of drywall compound, while fiberglass has an adhesive which saves you a step. Both are strong. Try both and use the material you prefer to work with.
Chalk line This is the easiest way to mark straight lines across studs and joists. It’s also handy for a lot of other jobs.
Grease pen or lipstick To quickly determine where to cut for an outlet or fixture, rub the screws of the box with the pen or lipstick and hold the drywall in place over the box. The location will be transferred to the drywall.
Drywall square This big square, which has a 4′ straight-edge, is designed to help you cut right angles across a sheet quickly and easily.
Long straightedge A 5′ or longer straight-edge comes in handy for drawing straight lines not on the square.
Drywall saw This is an economical little tool which is perfect for cutting holes for switchboxes, receptacles and lights, or for cutting odd angles or curves that might be tough with a utility knife. The sharp point allows you to insert the saw through the drywall; then just start sawing. For big, intricate cuts, you might also use a jigsaw.
A compass For finding which is the North wall, of course. Actually, a simple geometry-set compass allows you to get tight fits, by following the contour of uneven walls and tracing the pattern onto your drywall sheet before cutting.
Screw gun We’ve talked before about using your variable speed screwdriver to drive screws. If you’re doing a lot of drywalling, use a gun designed for the job — preferably a rechargeable one.
More next time.