Installing a plasterboard ceiling is a very simple process, but if you work alone, it can present some difficulties. Thanks to a few small adjustments, almost anyone is able to get the job done on their own. In this article you can read some tips for learning how to mount a plasterboard ceiling.
Steps
Step 1. Inspect the area for any obstructions, such as electrical wiring, protruding pipes or conduits
Install the support rods to create a flat, even surface for the drywall around these obstacles.
Step 2. Mark the load-bearing beams to identify the location of the ceiling joists during installation
You should also report the locations of the chandeliers and electrical boxes.
Step 3. Make "T" brackets if needed
They provide the strength and support to lift drywall panels to the ceiling as you work alone. Use a 60 cm long piece of wood, with a section of 2.5 x 10 cm, and nail it to another plank (section 5 x 10 cm) that is 30 cm longer than the distance from the floor to the ceiling.
Step 4. Install the drywall starting at one corner and using a full panel
Lift it up to the ceiling to get an idea of how it fits along the joists.
Step 5. Wait until you are clear on the layout of each panel before applying the adhesive to the joists
This type of glue dries in 15 minutes, so you need to proceed quickly.
Step 6. Lift the first panel up to the ceiling aligning it perfectly with the corner
For this operation you can use the "T" bracket or ask for help from a friend; make sure the beveled edge of the drywall faces the floor.
Step 7. Continue doing this by arranging the panels along the first wall and verifying that the bevel of each is facing down
This element facilitates the application of tape and putty.
Step 8. Securely fasten the panels to the joists using screws or nails
The head of the hardware you have decided to use should make contact with the paper liner, penetrating it slightly but not completely through it.
Step 9. Insert the screws or nails about 1 cm from the edge of each panel and spacer them 18 cm along the perimeter
The nails that go into the internal joist should be spaced approximately 30 cm apart.
Step 10. Begin installing the second row using only half a panel to create an offset arrangement of the joining lines
This detail makes the structure more stable.
Step 11. Measure and draw a cutting line at the midpoint of the panel
Use a ruler as a guide for the utility knife blade. Slightly tilt the panel on the floor or work table and push down to break it in half; cut the paper backing with the utility knife.
Step 12. Cut the drywall to the desired length, first drawing a line with chalk
Score the line with the utility knife and then make a deeper cut with a second pass.
Step 13. Install the panels over the air vents or chandelier outlets
Fasten them loosely at first, use a rotary drill to cut out the perimeter and finally fit them permanently.
Step 14. Complete the ceiling work before proceeding with the walls
Advice
- Leave the panels flat on the ground until you are ready to use them to prevent them from bending.
- You can buy a "T" square for plasterboard for 10-20 euros, which pays you back when you're in a hurry. Tilt the panel almost vertically towards the wall and use the toe of your left foot (if you are right-handed) to hold the base of the team in place; score the panel along the cut line and then lift it slightly off the floor to break it neatly. Bend over the panel to cut the paper backing 30-60 cm near the center of the incision. Take the loose end and with a quick motion push it away from you to separate it completely. The team is essential to quickly make the housings of the chandeliers, sockets and all the other elements.
- The plasterboard panels are available in different thicknesses. For the ceiling, 15 mm ones are recommended, although specific 12 mm ones are available. If you need to have your work inspected by a council expert, he can tell you what material to use.
- When choosing the length of the screws remember that it is not always advisable to overdo it. The 50 mm ones do not fix a 12 mm thick plasterboard better than the 30 mm ones, but they are much more difficult to insert and screw in a straight line.
- Professionals rarely use glue on ceiling joists, partly because the chances are high that the panels will need to be taken apart and cut. Instead of using adhesive, you can opt for three temporary coarse thread drywall screws (or three sets of two nails), plus one screw on each edge.
- The joists should be marked on the upper frame, which is typically composed of two wooden planks with a 5x10 cm section placed above the load-bearing beams.
