Frequently Asked Questions about Hanging Drywall

Whether you are refinishing your basement, or simply need to fix a hole in the wall, drywall repair is not simple feat. It requires an ample amount of forethought, preparation, and in best case scenarios, experience. If you are planning on undertaking a drywall project but have little to no experience, you are likely filled with questions regarding the process, materials, best practices, and more.

To help get you started on the right track, review some frequently asked questions about hanging up drywall. This can give you the confidence you need to get the job done, or at least pick up the phone to hire a professional. Continue below to get started!

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319
Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Why Do I Need Drywall Tape?

Drywall tape has but one simple purpose, but it is a highly imperative one. It is used to make the drywall seams invisible. Without drywall tape, you will be able to see where each sheet of drywall connects, which is an eyesore. Do not skip the drywall tape, or you will regret it when the job is done!

Do I Need Sheetrock or Drywall?

Do you use cotton swabs, tissues, and adhesive bandages? These are commonly referred to as “Cutips®, Kleenex®, and Band-Aids®”, which are all actually brand names rather than item descriptions. The same principle applies to sheetrock and drywall. They are the same thing, with Sheetrock being a brand name like “Band-Aids®”, and drywall being the actual material description.

What Will I Need to Fix a Hole in the Wall?

To fix a small hole in the wall, you will need a long list of materials. These include, but are not limited to, drywall metal patch (for medium holes), painter’s putty, putty knife, blade knife, drywall compound, fine grain sanding blocks, trowel,  cloth rag, paint, and a paint roller/brush. For larger holes, you will need more material. See our blog, “Common Drywall Supplies and What They Do” to learn more.

What is the Difference between Drywall Spackle and Joint Compound?

Drywall joint compound has a lighter consistency than spackle, which means it is not well-suited for the same applications. It can be used to patch holes and cracks, but it takes longer to dry and shrinks more than spackling paste. Spackle is different from joint compound since it is mainly used to patch up holes and cracks in plaster and gypsum board. It has a thicker consistency, which is why it is also known as “drywall mud.”

Should I Hang Drywall Horizontally or Vertically?

This is actually a very common question among novice handymen. The answer depends on certain factors. Commercial properties must hang drywall vertically to be compliant with fire codes. In contrast, it is normal practice to and drywall horizontally in residential properties. In fact, walls that are 9 feet or higher benefit from horizontal drywall installation, including less seams, hidden uneven studs, easier finishing, and more.

Where Can I Find Trusted Drywall Repair?

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319
Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 to request a free estimate for drywall repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of drywall services, for both residential and commercial properties, including new construction homes, remodels, repairs, metal stud framing, ceiling grids, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

Drywall by Local Builders Provides Residential and Commercial Drywall Services in Indy

Whether your drywall needs are on commercial or residential scope, your search for reliable and proficient service is over! You can get professional drywall installation and repair at a competitive price when you call Drywall by Local Builders!

Indianapolis Drywall Installation 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Services 317-269-7319

Drywall by Local Builders is at Your Service

Drywall by Local Builders is a locally owned and operated drywall company based out of Indianapolis, Indiana. Our highly-trained drywall contractors are licensed, insured, and bonded, with more than a decade of hands-on experience in the industry. We offer a wide range of drywall services for both residential and commercial properties, and for municipal and governmental properties as well!

A Fully-Certified Team of Professionals You Can Trust

Drywall by Local Builders is fully-equipped and staffed to manage any drywall project, regardless of size or scope. We are proficient in everything drywall, from simple drywall installation and repair, to major work like new construction homes, grid ceilings, metal stud framing, custom drywall textures, remodels, basements, and more! In fact, we are happy to discuss your questions and concerns, anytime. All oyu have to do is give us a call!

Contact Us Today for Direct Answers and Estimates

You can feel free to contact our office at 317-269-7319 and speak with a licensed Indianapolis drywall contractor, directly about your drywall or home remodeling needs. When you call Drywall by Local Builders, you can expect a prompt hello and a warm greeting, every time. We are industry professionals who are eager to answer all of your drywall questions! Request a free estimate, information, or referrals, today!

How to Get Started

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 for professional Indianapolis drywall repair at an affordable price. We are highly-trained and licensed drywall contractors that offer a wide range of drywall services for residential and commercial properties. Trust us for outstanding results at a competitive price! Call 317-269-7319 to request an estimate for Indianapolis drywall repair, today.

Popular Moulding Materials to Choose From

Whether you prefer crown, base, plinth, chair, or rosette, moulding provides a decorative and functional accent. When added to any room, it can instantly transform a dismal environment into a stunning, elegant space. As a highly-versatile home furnishing, it can be installed on walls, ceilings, bases of floors, around doors and windows, and much more. In fact, it is so versatile that it comes in various styles and designs, all of which ranging in look, size, quality, texture, and more.

A first step in choosing the right moulding for your home or office is deciding on a species or material. Traditionally made of wood, moulding is now available in several alternative materials too. Continue reading to learn the most popular species and material options for moulding.

Indianapolis Moulding Installation 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Moulding Installation 317-269-7319

Top 10 Moulding Materials

Aspen Aspen is a soft wood that has a straight grain and fine uniform texture. It is commonly used for more decorative moulding silhouettes.

Fir Fir is a wood species with two grain patterns: mixed grain and vertical grain. Mixed grain is course, and comes in light to dark hues. Vertical grains have tighter grain patterns and less color disparity. It generally requires staining prior to application.

Medium Density Fiberboard Also recognized as MDF, medium density fiberboard is a high-grade, composite material commonly used for moulding because it is durable and easy to paint.

Oak Oak is a hardwood that, when applied in the moulding manufacturing industry, it primarily derived from Red or White oak trees. It has attractive grain pattern qualities and it is very easy to work with.

Pine Pine is a wood species that, in the moulding manufacturing and consumer industry, is appealing for its unique textures and random knots.

Poplar Poplar wood is among the most preferred in the design industry because of its natural crisp grain lines and rich wood tones.

Primed Finger Joint Products Speaking of pine and poplar, primed finger joint products are derived from both. It is engineered moulding comes in smaller pieces that must be fitted together to make a whole board.

Polystyrene This is a prefinished moulding admired for its light weight and easy workability. They are slightly flexible and moisture resistant, making them a great choice for “untrue walls” and rooms that have higher levels of moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms.

Polyurethane Polyurethane moulding is a man-made material composed of high-density polyurethane. It is warp, rot, and split resistant, making it a prime choice as an alternative to wood materials.

PVC PVC, or polyvinylchloride, is another man-made material that flawlessly mimics the look of wood. It’s a popular choice because it’s easy to cut and install.

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 to request a free estimate for drywall installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of drywall services, for both residential and commercial properties, including new construction homes, remodels, repairs, metal stud framing, ceiling grids, and of course, moulding installation. Request a free estimate, today.

3 Easy Steps to Get Rid of Old Wall Anchors

After some time, old wall anchors can become more unattractive than useful. When this happens, it is possible to repair the problem all on your own. Continue reading to learn how to get rid of pesky wall anchors in just 3 easy steps!

Drywall Installation and Repair 317-269-7319

Drywall Installation and Repair 317-269-7319

Tools and Supplies You’ll Need

Each item on the list of tools and supplies below can be found at any local home improvement store, like Lowes®, Home Depot®, or Menards®. They are all reasonably priced, so you do not have to worry about spending too much on a small project! Just be sure to get the right drill bit size to avoid project hang ups and delays. Here is what you will need to get:

Power Drill
Drill Bit (or Bit Set)
Drywall Patching Compound
180+ Grit Sandpaper
Putty Knife
Plastic Painters Tarp (or old sheets, newspapers, towels, etc.)

If your drill bit set is not complete, you at least need to have one that is around two sizes bigger than the wall anchor opening. If you plan to paint the wall afterwards, be sure to plan for enough time to dry and prime first. Furthermore, it is wise to purchase new wall anchors that are easily removable for more convenience in the future.

3 Steps Start to Finish:

Step ❶ ⇢ Take out the screw from the wall anchor and choose a drill bit that is 2 sizes larger than the screw hole.

Step ❷ ⇢ Center the drill bit inside the screw hole and use its resistance to drill the anchor out of the wall. It is okay if it falls into the wall cavity.

Special Note: Do not use too much pressure and maintain constant control of your drill. There could be electrical wires or plumbing pipes behind the wall that you do not want to disturb or damage.

Step ❸ ⇢ Use your putty knife to apply drywall compound to the residual hole in the wall and let it dry completely. You may need to fill the hole, little by little. Now all that’s left to do is sand, prime, and paint!

Indianapolis Drywall Repair and Installation

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 for affordable Indianapolis drywall repair and installation services you can trust. We service all of Central Indiana, as well as the Metro Indy areas. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial drywall services, including new home construction, grid ceilings, metal stud framing, and more.

Fundamental Information About Installing Water-Proof Drywall

If you are preparing to install water-proof drywall in your home, there are some things you need to know first. Continue reading to learn some basics surrounding “green board”, including what it is, what it does, and how to install it correctly.

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Green Board Drywall

Drywall contractors often refer to water-proof drywall as “green board” because it is green. However, it is an important material because of its water and moisture-resistant qualities. For these reasons, green board is often used in rooms like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other rooms where moisture is frequently in the air. Although traditional drywall that is constructed with a gypsum-based core works well for all other areas of a home, places like bathrooms and kitchens require a specialized material that will combat the excess moisture production and retention.

Water-Proof vs. Water-Resistant

One of the biggest misconceptions regarding green board is that it is water-proof. The truth is that green board is water-resistant, not water-proof. Although it cannot completely stop water penetration, it is still highly resilient against linger air moisture and leakages. This type of drywall is meant for rooms that experience higher levels of humidity and moisture, however, they are not meant to be installed directly behind shower tile, underneath bathtubs, around kitchen sinks, or any other area that has direct contact with water. These areas require a different type of specialized drywall, one of the most popular being fiber cement board.

Installation Tips and Guidelines

When installing green board, it is important that you have the proper experience, knowledge, and resources to do so according to industry best practices and code standards. If you do not meet these credentials, it is vital that you leave green board installation to a licensed Indianapolis drywall contractor you can trust.

If you have installed drywall before, then you should brush up on the fundamental steps involved in the process. Installing green board is very similar to installing regular drywall. Start by examining and measuring the area you are working with. Then be sure to score your green board accordingly.

After you have scored your drywall, bend it at the markings and use a utility knife to make a clean cut on the top layer of paper. Next, attach the drywall to your framing, and connect it using drywall screws or nails in the areas where the framing aligns with the green board.

Using one continuous piece of drywall tape, cover the seams between the sections of drywall. Extend the tape from top to bottom, all across the walls and in the wall corners. Now it is time to apply your drywall mud to the taped-off areas. Be sure to fill in the indents caused by your screws, too. Once the mud dries, you are ready to prime and paint!

Need Professional Drywall Installation?

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 for professional drywall installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are licensed, bonded, and insured drywall contractors with over 10 years of experience in the industry. Our drywall services include installation, repair, replacement, new construction, metal stud framing, remodels, and more. Request a free estimate, today.

FAQS About Drywall Repair and Installation

Drywall work is not “cut and dry.” There are several factors involved in making sure the job is done right. Whether you plan to install drywall on your own or hire a professional contractor, it is helpful to learn a little more about drywall repair. There are numerous questions that are commonly asked by home and business owners regarding drywall repair and installation. If you have questions too, you may find the answers below.

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Why is There a Crack in My New Drywall?

Drywall cracks come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, depths, and scopes. And often times, the appearance or location of a crack can say a lot about how and why it showed up. The most common causes for drywall cracks include moisture, foundation settling, improper installation, blunt force impact, and heavy wall décor.

Which Tools Do I Need to Patch Up a Small Hole in the Wall?

The basic tool kit for minor drywall repairs should consists of at least 6 particular items. These include a putty knife, mud pans, sanding sponge, sandpaper, drywall tape, and corner tools. You can find these supplies at any local home improvement or hardware store, such as Lowes®, Menards®, and Home Depot®.

Which Drywall Materials Can Reduce Noise?

Unfortunately, there are not many drywall manufacturers that provide noise reduction options. However, there happens to be 4 particular brands on the market that are specially manufactured for optimal noise reduction and control. These brands include QuietRock®, QuietWood®, QuietCoat®, and Soundbreak® XP®.

Are There Different Types of Drywall Spackle?

There are various types of spackle available for drywall work and repair, but each one has separate qualities that meet certain drywall patching needs. The two basic categories of drywall mud are quick-setting and premixed. Quick-setting drywall mud is also referred to as “hot” mud because a chemical reaction occurs during the curing process that causes heat release. Premixed drywall mud is the more common or traditional drywall spackle, probably because it is ready to use.

Can I Install Drywall Myself?

Even for the most enthusiastic do-it-yourself or home improvement buff, drywall installation is best left in the hands of a professional. Not only is it safer and more cost-effective to hire a professional Indianapolis drywall contractor, it guarantees professional-grade results in an efficient time frame. It requires more than just the proper tools, training, and knowledge to achieve a good drywall job, it also takes resources, connections, experience, and more.

Where Can I Find Trusted Drywall Repair Near Me?

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 for Indianapolis drywall repair and installation service. We are experienced drywall contractors who offer a wide range of residential and commercial drywall service, including repair, replacement, installation, new home construction, metal stud framing, custom drywall texture, grid ceilings, and much more. Call 317-269-7319 to request a free estimate, today.

Choose Drywall by Local Builders for Quality Service You Can Afford

Our licensed and insured drywall contractors have the affordable drywall installation and repair solutions you are looking for in Central Indiana. We understand that when it comes to drywall, finish is not the only thing that matters. Although we perform level 5 finishes on every job, we are also devoted to quality, integrity, customer support, and competitive pricing.

Continue reading to learn why you should choose us for your drywall installation and repair needs, and how to learn more about our drywall services, prices, and availability.

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Residential and Commercial Service

Drywall must be installed properly to achieve high-quality results that last. Drywall by Local Builders has the skills and resources necessary to meet these standards of excellence, and render the most professional drywall services in Indianapolis, including level 5 finishes and custom drywall textures. Our highly trained and licensed drywall contractors specialize in a wide range of drywall services, including repair, installation, replacement, finishing, and much more.

We provide residential and commercial drywall services for all of Indianapolis, as well as, the outer Indy areas, including Avon, Carmel, Fishers, Beech Grove, Plainfield, and many more! With a fully-equipped and abundant staff on deck, we can manage any drywall project, no matter how big or small.

How it Works

The initial part of our dry-walling process involves thorough and strategic planning. We use an intensive approach to understand your objectives and structurally plan out your drywall project. Without using confusing industry jargon, we carefully answer all of your questions and address all of your concerns about the drywall process before we begin.

When it comes time to get started, our teams show up on-time, neatly dressed, and fully-equipped to work. Throughout the job, we take ample precaution in protecting your furnishings, and maintain a clean working environment while keeping a steady pace. We are capable of accommodating deadlines for home remodels and construction, and offer friendly customer support and flexible scheduling for your convenience.

Why Choose Us?

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Here at Drywall by Local Builders, we are dedicated to providing unparalleled customer support and quality craftsmanship for every client. We take great care in protecting your surroundings and maintaining a clean work area in your property, as well as, offering easy and flexible scheduling to get the job done in a convenient time frame for you.

We also offer free estimates, in-home consultations, and complimentary advice about drywall replacement. Choose Drywall by Local Builders for all your drywall installation and repair needs in Indianapolis! Call 317-269-7319 to schedule an estimate, today.

A Closer Look at Skip Trowel Drywall Texture

Skip trowel is a confusing term since it can refer to several different types of drywall texture. It is used too vaguely in the drywall industry, which is misleading among property owners. Proper skip trowel texture can only be achieved using the right tools and techniques. For it to be a true skip trowel, the drywall mud material must be applied in a very thin layer using a specialized curved knife, called a trowel. These are 18 inches wide, which aids in the application process. When applied at the right angle, the blade of the knife spreads the mud in a way that causes it to “skip” across the surface. This creates a unique rounded circle texture that is a true and true skip trowel.

Indianapolis Drywall Installation 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Installation 317-269-7319

Similar Drywall Textures

Skip trowel is often confused for alternative drywall textures. One of the most common textures mistaken for skip trowel is called hawk and trowel. This drywall texture is a lot different because it produces many layers of texture, rather than just one thin layer. Also, hawk and trowel texture creates several lines and uneven circles, unlike skip trowel that produces small round circles. Another common drywall texture that is frequently confused for skip towel is called Sante Fe texture. Santa Fe drywall texture also uses a very thin layer of material.

Skip Trowel Application

If you are planning to finish your drywall on your own, you will need to purchase the materials for the project. You can find everything you need for drywall work at any local home improvement store. It is important to have the proper tools, materials, and equipment to finish drywall. Not only is it a challenging task to undertake without experience or knowledge, it is a costly investment. A better option would be to hire professional drywall contractors. They have the training, equipment, and resources to deliver prompt and professional drywall finishing at an affordable price.

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 when you need professional drywall texture and drywall service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured drywall company that provides residential and commercial drywall work at competitive prices. Call 317-269-7319 to request a free estimate, today.

Why Did My Drywall Crack?

Indianapolis Drywall Repair 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Repair 317-269-7319

A crack in your drywall might as well be a cannonball-sized hole; because a simple crack becomes the main focal point of your wall, distracting from the rest of your home’s beautiful décor. So when they appear, you begin to panic, and probably start thinking about all the questions you have for your drywall installation contractor. But before you blame the crack on a poor installation job, learn a few other reasons why drywall cracks, and then move forward with the solution that makes the most sense for your type of drywall damage.

Continue reading to learn several common causes for drywall cracks, and who to call for affordable drywall repair you can trust.

Causes for Cracks in Drywall

Drywall cracks come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, depths, and scopes. And often times, the appearance or location of a crack can say a lot about how and why it showed up. The best way to determine where you cracks originate from is to contact a professional drywall contractor for an in-person assessment. In the meantime, continue below to learn some common causes for cracked drywall.

⇒ Foundation Settling

After a home is built, it begins to exponentially “settle” in terms of its foundation. This can happen at different times and in different areas of the home. The slow downward movement that occurs with settling can create cracks in the walls and ceilings of the home overtime. Common places to see this type of cracking include tops of door frames, ceilings, walls, and near corners where wall and ceiling meet. And they are generally diagonal in direction.

⇒ Moisture

Too much moisture can create a lot of problems for a home. And among those problems is drywall cracking. There are a few places in drywall that are moisture-prone or tend to attract moisture. Here is where you are likely to see drywall cracks as a result of rust accumulation. Areas like screws and wall studs are common moisture attractors.

⇒ Wall Décor

Unless you use the proper wall anchors and installation tools, heavy wall décor can cause cracks in drywall overtime. Since they are usually behind whatever’s hanging on the wall, they often remain hidden. Sometimes, they are discovered when the wall anchor gives out and the hanging decor finally drops to the ground.

Indianapolis Drywall Repair

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 for Indianapolis drywall repair you can trust. We are highly-trained, licensed, and insured drywall contractors that offer a wide range of drywall services for both residential and commercial properties, including repair, installation, and replacement. We also offer new home construction, metal stud framing, custom drywall texture, grid ceilings, and much more. Call 317-269-7319 to request an estimate for drywall repair in Indianapolis, Indiana today.

Should I Install Basement Drywall On My Own?

Drywall Installation and Repair 317-269-7319

Drywall Installation and Repair 317-269-7319

Once a homeowner has made passed all the framing and electrical inspections, they have completed the major stages of finishing a basement, which means they are ready to enter the drywall phase. Although an exciting part of the basement refinishing process, the drywall phase can give homeowners anxiety. When people start thinking about drywalling their basements, they often become concerned over a number of factors.

Questions like “how long will it take?”, “how much will it cost?”, “what thickness should I buy?”, “what tools do I need?” and “Do I need waterproof board for my bathroom?” are all common among those preparing to drywall their basements. These inquiries almost always lead to the ultimate question of whether or not they should do it themselves or hire a contractor. Continue reading to learn the best method for superior basement drywall installation.

DIY Drywall Installation

Even for the most enthusiastic do-it-yourself or home improvement buff, drywall installation is best left in the hands of a professional. Not only is it safer and more cost-effective to hire a professional drywall contractor, it guarantees professional-grade results in an efficient time frame. It requires more than just the proper tools, training, and knowledge to achieve a good drywall job, it also takes resources, connections, experience, and more.

4 Reasons to Never Install Drywall Yourself:

You Don’t Have the Knowledge and Training.

A professional contractor has the knowledge, training, and experience to install drywall. Do you know which off-seam taping patterns are the best? Or anything about staggered drywall butt joints? As you can tell, drywall installation involves several details that only an experienced contractor knows well enough to decide for your basement.

You Don’t Have the Proper Tools or Man-Power.

To install drywall yourself, you would have to purchase all the necessary and unique tools and equipment needed for the job. And the chances of you using these tools and equipment again are very low, making them the opposite of a cost-effective investment. Also, if you don’t have a person to help, you are looking at buying even more expensive equipment, like ceiling lifts, to get the job done alone. A professional contractor already has the staff, tools, and equipment needed for the job, which allows them to install drywall properly and efficiently.

You Don’t Have Good Industry Connections.

If you are installing drywall on your own, you can expect to pay more for a smaller selection of product. A professional drywall contractor has better resources and connections for product. Not only can get better pricing on drywall sheets, they get it from the best and most cost-effective suppliers.

You Don’t Have the Time.

Unless you are retired or unemployed, it is unlikely that you have 8 to 10 weeks to complete your basement’s drywall installation project. And even if you did, after getting this far in the basement refinishing process, you don’t want to wait much longer for the end result! A professional drywall contractor has the tools, training, equipment, staff, and knowledge to get the job done in less than half that time.

Drywall Installation in Indianapolis

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Call Drywall by Local Builders at 317-269-7319 for professional drywall installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are licensed, bonded, and insured with over 10 years of experience in the drywall construction industry. Our highly-trained drywall contractors provide affordable drywall repair, installation, metal stud framing, grid ceilings, and much more for both commercial and residential properties. Call 317-269-7319 to schedule a free estimate today.