Category Archives: Drywall Facts

What You Need to Cut Drywall in a Short Amount of Time

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Ever wonder how professional contractors can get drywall cutting needs met within a short amount of time? Well, that is because they use an age-old, industry secret to save time. Interestingly, this secret method only requires two very basic and common toolbox staples: a tape measurer and a utility knife. But before you rush to the work shed for your toolbox and drywall supplies, it is important to understand that this method of cutting drywall requires a learning curve of practice.

After a lot of practice and patience, you too can cut drywall using this method, just like the pros do. Continue reading to learn how!

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors
Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

How to Cut Drywall With Only 2 Tools

Many people naturally want to place the tape measurer hook at the edge of the drywall sheet for stability, but this is actually wrong. Instead, the tape measurer hook should be placed along the drywall board where you will be making the actual cut.

From there, you must place the tip of the utility blade against the tape measurer hook and then hold it in place by pinching it with your thumb. Steadily move your free hand to the end of the drywall board and pinch your thumb and forefinger together on the tape measurer at the right increment.

Here’s where practice will pay off for you. In one swift movement, simultaneously move your knife and hands down the drywall using a consistent downward pressure. Once you have completed the cut, simply snap off the scrap piece and cut the paper liner on the other side to separate it entirely.

Practice is the Real Secret

Be sure to practice this method of drywall cutting before making it a staple move in your work. Furthermore, be sure you are wearing all the proper protective gear to reduce the risk of serious injuries. If you are not adept in drywall work, or have little to no experience working with drywall materials, it is not recommended to start with this method of cutting. Learn the basics first, practice for a long time, and then commit to improving your skills as you ride the learning curve. This is the best method of becoming a skilled handyman in any trade.

Indianapolis Drywall Services You Can Trust

Call Drywall by AMFA at 317-269-7319 when you need professional drywall services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured drywall company that provides residential and commercial drywall work at competitive prices. Our highly trained and experienced drywall contractors are fully equipped to provide quality drywall repair services regardless of your projects size and scope. And as a licensed, bonded, and insured company, we guarantee all of our drywall work. Call 317-269-7319 to request a free estimate, today. Call 317-269-7319 to request a free estimate, today.

How to Get a Stripped Screw Out of the Wall

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Whether you forgot to drill a pilot hole or drove a screw too quickly, nothing puts a stop to your project faster than a screw with stripped head. Fortunately, there’s a smooth and efficient way to deal with this frustrating problem. All you need are a few tools and supplies, all of which are reasonably-priced and sold at any local home improvement or hardware store in your neighborhood.

Continue reading to review a basic guide to removing stripped screws from drywall.

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

What You Will Need

☑ Drill
☑ Screw Extractor Set
☑ Long-Nose Locking Pliers

For Screw Heads Above the Wall:

Clamp your locking pliers onto the screw, positioning them as close to the wood as possible.

Once you have a solid grip, use the pliers to gently turn the screw counterclockwise. Be gentle to avoid snapping off the screw head.

You can use a piece of cardboard to place around screw to prevent any accidental scratching.

For Screw Heads At or Under the Wall:

For screw heads that are flush with the wood surface or slightly below, you will need to use your screw extractor set.

Using your drill, make a 1/8 inch deep hole in the top of the screw head. It should be large enough to accept the largest screw extractor that will fit the head.

Position the extractor into the hole you drilled, and then slowly turn it counterclockwise and press down until you feel the extractor threads catch.

Slowly turn the extractor to wind the screw out just enough to where you can grab it with your gripping pliers.

Tips for Preventing Stripped Screw Heads

☑ For screws 2 1/2 inches or longer, rub the heads with candle wax or beeswax to reduce friction.

☑ Do not forget to drill pilot holes for your screws.

☑ Choose a drill set that lets you drill pilot holes in multiple sizes to match your screws.

☑ Drill larger pilot holes for hardwoods to avoid splitting.

☑ Always choose the proper screws for your project.

If you have a home improvement project you’ve been waiting to get done, consider professional home remodeling services for outstanding results in a convenient time frame. Need a deck built? Or perhaps some drywall installed? These are the types of services that are better performed by a licensed contractor who retains the proper tools, training, and skills to deliver responsible work and professional results.

Did You Do a Little Damage to Your Drywall? No Problem!

Call Drywall by AMFA at 317-269-7319 when you need professional drywall services 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. Call 317-269-7319 to request a free estimate, today.

What Can I Use to Safely Clean My Walls?

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Have your interior walls seen better days? Are they starting to look more like an interpretive finger painting? If so, there is still hope. You can get your level 5 drywall and paint finish back in just a matter of minutes. All you need are the right supplies and the proper knowledge. Continue reading to learn what items and supplies you can use to clean your home’s walls.

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

How to Clean Stains on Walls

Because there is more than one type of wall stain, you will likely need to use more than one type of cleaning method or solution. Each type of wall stain requires a different method of cleaning, so it is important to pay attention to what you are using. Common wall stains include water stains, smoke stains, dirt stains, and mold.

Water Stains

To treat water stains, you will need a soft sponge, a large bucket, clean water, household liquid bleach, and most importantly, a shellac or oil-based primer and some wall paint to match your existing shade. Combine equal parts of water and bleach, and apply to the stains using a soft sponge. You can choose to transfer your solution to a spray bottle for better control and convenience. Allow the solution to dry on the wall stain, and then apply a shellac or oil-based primer to cover the stain. Once the primer is dry, apply your paint.

Smoke Stains

For major smoke damage, professional renovation may be necessary, but as for minor to moderate staining, you will need a chemical dry cleaning sponge, a regular soft sponge, rubbing alcohol, and a floor fan. Use the chemical dry cleaning sponge to wipe the soot and char away. Apply moderate pressure to avoid smudging and smearing. Start side to side, and then top to bottom. This step may take some repeating. Once you have removed as much soot and char as possible, wet the standard soft sponge with rubbing alcohol and gently wipe the walls clean. This step may also take some repeating.

Everyday Dirt and Grease

Everything from fingers and pet dander, to dust, dead insects, and more, can cause dirt stains on walls. To remove a dirt stain, slightly dampen a chemical dry cleaning sponge, such as a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, and then using gentle pressure, wipe the smudge away in a circular motion. Finish by using a standard soft sponge and rubbing alcohol to gently wipe the wall clean.

Sometimes walls are too dirty to clean, in which case, you will likely be better off outsourcing professional drywall replacement. Contact a local Indianapolis drywall company for a free quote to get started.

Indianapolis Drywall Replacement You Can Trust

Call Drywall by AMFA at 317-269-7319 for licensed Indianapolis drywall services you can afford. 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.

What You Need to Know About Wet Walls and Mold Growth

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If your home or commercial property has wet walls, or walls that sweat with condensation, then you may have a mold problem on your hands sooner than later. Mold grows in dark and moist environments; and since the inside of a wall is dark, when it’s wet, the porous wall material turns into a mold incubator. Wall boards, plywood, drywall, and other wall surfaces are quite absorbent, and can grow mold any time of year if it retains enough moisture.

In the meantime, continue reading to learn what you need to know about the correlation between wet, sweaty walls and mold outbreaks.

Indianapolis Drywall Contractors
Indianapolis Drywall Contractors 317-269-7319

Black and Green Mold

One of the most common types of mold found growing in wet walls is called Stachybotrys Chartarum, or black mold, and has a greenish-black hue. This is not your typical harmless bathroom mold you’ve seen a time or two in your life; this mold is toxic, and can cause respiratory complications and illnesses after long-term exposure or inhalation. In the case of black mold, or any other mold growth in wet walls, it is crucial to outsource immediate mold removal and drywall replacement services.

Since mold is hazardous to our health, it is safer to have a professional company remove moldy walls and mold growth, rather than attempting to do it yourself. Remember, the mold is not the only problem with wet walls, the water leak is also an issue. Moldy wet walls will require drywall removal, drywall replacement, mold removal, plumbing repairs, water leak diagnostics, and fresh paint. This seems like a lot for fixing wet walls, but there is a solution for that too.

Drywall Repair Services for Moldy Walls

Wet walls can be caused by several things, but mostly poor plumbing or leaky pipes. Hiring a team of contractors is the best approach to fixing a wet wall mold problem. It is important to have a plumbing contractor provide professional diagnostics to determine the cause of your wet walls. From there, you need a professional drywall contractor to properly replace the damaged areas, and ensure they will withstand future humidity and moisture risks.

Indianapolis Drywall Repair Services at a Price You Can Afford

Call Drywall by AMFA at 317-269-7319 for professional drywall repair and installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. 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.

The True FAQS About Gypsum Board

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Continue below to review some of the most pertinent frequently asked questions about drywall and gypsum board, and finally clear up your confusion!

Indianapolis Drywall & Painting Contractors
Indianapolis Drywall & Painting Contractors 317-269-7319

Are Drywall and Gypsum Board the Same Thing?

Drywall is a construction material made from thin panels of gypsum board. It is used to construct walls and ceilings in residential and commercial structures. Drywall is also called wallboard, gypsum board, and plasterboard. It is called “drywall” because water is not required to use it for wall and ceiling construction.

Gypsum comes from the Greek term, “gypsos”, meaning plaster. It is a naturally-occurring mineral found in sedimentary rock formations. It contains large amounts of water bound in crystalline form, making it less prone to combustion. Gypsum board is a generic term used to describe a family of panel-type products that retain a non-combustible core. These boards are layered with gypsum rock and specialty paper material.

When Was Drywall Invented?

Drywall was first introduced to the market in 1916 after being invented by the U.C. Gypsum Company (USG). Back then, drywall went by the term, “Sackett Board” named after a USG subsidiary called the Sackett Plaster Company. It started off as small, fireproof tiles, and after ten years, eventually transitioned into the product we know today as drywall. By 1945, it was one of the dominant building materials in our country.

What is Chinese Gypsum Board?

Chinese drywall is a term used to reference an environmental health situation involving defective drywall material manufactured in China and imported to the United States in 2001. Laboratory testing revealed that the defective drywall emitted sulfurous gasses, including carbon disulfide, carbonyl sulfide, and hydrogen sulfide.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began investigating the effects of Chinese drywall in 2009, and concluded that there are short-term health implications from exposure, including respiratory problems, asthma irritations, sore throats, chronic headaches, and more. Long-term exposure can have health implications like chronic fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, dizziness, and more.

Is Gypsum Board a Good Choice for Wall Finishing?

Drywall, or gypsum board, is beneficial for several reasons. It is fire-resistant, economical, versatile, durable, noise-mitigating, easily decorated and painted, easy to repair and replace, and much more!

Is Gypsum Board a Man-Made Material?

Gypsum, as mentioned earlier, is found in naturally-occurring crystalline formations in sedimentary rock. To acquire it, gypsum must be mined. Millions of tons of gypsum are mined every year in North America, and most of it is to manufacture drywall products.

Can I Install Gypsum Board?

If you are familiar with drywall work, and you feel comfortable taking on a project, it is possible to hang and finish drywall yourself. However, it is recommended to stick to small projects, like patching holes, and leave the larger projects to a trained team of professionals. When it comes to increasing the value of your home, you want to be sure every precaution is taken when installing new drywall. For this reason, it is best to outsource professional drywall services rather than take on a drywall project on your own.

Indianapolis Drywall Repair and Installation Service

Call Drywall by AMFA 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.

How to Hang Ceiling Drywall By Yourself

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Do you have a ceiling drywall installation project that needs to get done ASAP, but you don’t have access to any helping hands? No problem! With a simple, easy-to-learn handyman hack, you can hang ceiling drywall all on your own, without a partner to assist in the heavy lifting! Continue reading to learn what to do.

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

DIY Drywall Hanging Tips and Tricks

If you plan to hang drywall on your own, it is important to be experienced. This is especially true for ceiling drywall. For beginners, any scope of drywall work is a difficult project, regardless of having help. So, when it comes to ceiling drywall, experience is even more vital. If you are planning to hang ceiling drywall, be sure you are experienced with drywall work before taking on the task alone.

How to Do it Alone

The trickiest part to hanging ceiling drywall without a partner to assist is holding the board to the ceiling while you are attaching it with your tools. In conventional drywall installation, one person would be supporting the board while the other secures it into place. However, when doing this part by yourself, all you need are the right tools to take the place of an assistant. Here is the secret:

To support the drywall board as you attach it to the ceiling, just get yourself a 2×4 piece of wood and some screws! Screw the 2×4 into the wall studs just below the ceiling, but leave just enough space to slide your gypsum board above, securing it into place.

There you have it! You are ready to install your drywall ceiling all on your own! Still unsure about the whole project? Simply hire a licensed and qualified Indianapolis drywall contractor for professional assistance you can trust!

Professional Drywall Installation in Indianapolis

Call Drywall by AMFA at 317-269-7319 for affordable Indianapolis drywall grid ceilings service 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. Call 317-269-7319 for drywall repair and installation in Indianapolis, IN and its surrounding locations today.

Do You Have Sweaty Walls?

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If your home or commercial property has wet walls, or walls that “sweat” with condensation, then you may have a mold problem on your hands sooner than later. Mold grows in dark and moist environments; and since the inside of a wall is dark, when it’s wet, the porous wall material turns into a mold incubator. Wallboards, plywood, drywall, and other wall surfaces are quite absorbent, and can grow mold any time of year if it retains enough moisture. Wet walls can be caused by several things, but mostly poor plumbing or leaky pipes. It is important to have a plumbing contractor provide professional diagnostics to determine the cause of your wet walls.

Continue reading to learn why your walls are sweating, as well as, what you can do to solve your sweaty wall problems for good.

Indianapolis Drywall & Painting 317-269-7319
Indianapolis Drywall and Painting 317-269-7319

Black Mold and Green Mold

One of the most common types of mold found growing in wet walls is called Stachybotrys Chartarum, or black mold, and has a greenish-black hue. This is not your typical harmless bathroom mold you’ve seen a time or two in your life; this mold is toxic and can cause respiratory complications and illnesses after long-term exposure or inhalation.

In the case of black mold, or any other mold growth in wet walls, it is crucial to outsource immediate mold removal and drywall replacement services. Since mold is hazardous to our health, it is safer to have a professional company remove moldy walls and mold growth, rather than attempting to do it yourself. Remember, the mold is not the only problem with wet walls, the water leak is also an issue.

Moldy wet walls will require drywall removal, drywall replacement, mold removal, plumbing repairs, water leak diagnostics, and fresh paint. This seems like a lot for fixing wet walls, but there is a solution for that too. Hiring a professional for mold remediation is the first step to dealing with a mold outbreak problem. From there, you must have your plumbing repaired to ensure there are no other water leak or moisture risks in the future. They will inspect the plumbing to determine what’s causing the water or moisture in your walls, and then implement the necessary remedies and repairs before moving forward with drywall demolition and replacement.

When these tasks are complete, you are ready for drywall restoration! Contact a licensed Indianapolis drywall repair company as soon as your mold and plumbing are handled. They are trained in both drywall and painting services, which can save you time and money.

Indianapolis Drywall Repair You Can Really Afford

Call Drywall by AMFA 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.

How to Take Out Dry Wall Anchors

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Old, exposed drywall anchors are not appealing. So it is only natural to want them removed. But many homeowners are scared to try this task on their own because they are concerned about damaging their drywall. Also totally natural. If you are in the same position right now, you don’t have to fret much longer with your DIY decision. Waiting for you below is a simple step-by-step guide that just might change your mind about removing unwanted dry wall anchors by yourself!

Continue reading to get started!

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

What You’ll Need

✅ Drill
✅ Drill Bit (or Set)
✅ Putty Knife
✅ Utility Gloves
✅ Old Towel

Before You Begin

It is important to gather all your items and supplies before you start. The gloves will protect your hands from scratches or blisters, while the towel can be laid on the floor below to manage any drywall mess. It is also important to choose the correct drill bit size for the best results. If you do not have a full set of drill bits, simply purchase one that is a couple sizes larger than the opening in the wall anchor.

Keep in mind that if you plan to paint the wall you are working on, you will first need to prime the patched areas where the wall anchor holes were. And if you are planning to install new drywall anchors, be sure to buy ones that can be easily removed for future convenience!

Step One

Remove the screw from the wall anchor.

Step Two

Place the bit inside the center hole of the wall anchor and begin slowly drilling. Use a drill bit that is two sizes larger than the width of the center hole of the anchor. The bit should sit perfectly outside of the edge of the hole, without slipping inside.

Step Three

Once you begin drilling, the collar of the wall anchor should break free from the wall and automatically push itself out. Let it fall on the floor so you are not tempted to grab it while the drill is rotating. Be careful not to let the bit push deep into the wall cavity, which can interrupt electrical wiring or plumbing pipes.

Step Four

Push the residual drywall material back into the hole using your putty knife. You may have to fill this hole in stages for best results.

Step Five

Sand, prime, and paint!

Indianapolis Drywall Services You Can Trust

Call Drywall by AMFA at 317-269-7319 when you need professional drywall services 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. Call 317-269-7319 to request a free estimate, today.

What Do I Need to Repair a Hole in the Wall

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Whether you are carrying a treadmill down to the basement, or hosting a party of preteen boys, drywall damage is bound to happen at some point in home ownership. Fortunately, drywall is designed to be fairly easy to repair and renovation. All you need is the proper knowledge, the right tools, and a full day’s time.

Continue reading to learn which tools and supplies you’ll need to grab at your local home improvement store to repair a small to medium-sized hole in the wall.

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

Drywall Repair Tools and Materials

If you are not familiar with handyman or construction work, it is recommended to purchase a drywall repair kit, which can offer all the essential tools and materials for drywall patching and repair. These kits vary in scope and size, but common ones generally include 2 to 3 flexible knives, a utility knife, an insider-corner knife, hammer, screwdriver, saw, drill, nails, and screws. But drywall repairs also require additional materials depending on the needs of the project, including:

    ? Compound
    ? Self-adhering Mesh Tape
    ? Paper Tape
    ? Drywall
    ? 1×4 Block of Pine Wood
    ? Hand Sander
    ? Nail Bar
    ? Level
    ? Hack Saw
    ? Sandpaper
    ? Miter Box
    ? Primer
    ? Paint
    ? Paint Brush or Roller

You can purchase all of the above-listed materials at any local hardware or home improvement store. Ask a store attendant to point you in the right direction, and give advice on the most reliable products. Talk to a licensed drywall contractor for expert advice on household drywall repairs, drywall projects, drywall replacement, and more. They can even take the weight off your shoulders by getting the job done faster, better, and at a price that won’t make you think twice!

Unsure About Your Wall Repair Skills?
Get Professional Drywall Repair Instead!

Call the Drywall by AMFA office today at 317-269-7319 to speak with a licensed Indianapolis drywall contractor about your property remodeling and renovation needs. Drywall by AMFA is fully-equipped and staffed to manage any residential drywall repair, 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!

Want to Know Where Your Drywall Cracks Came From?

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Drywall cracks are the worst. You spend so much time making sure your home or office is in tip-top shape, and then you notice that alligator fissure below the bathroom light switch plate. Fortunately, there is a simple and convenient approach to dealing with this dilemma, but first, you need to figure what it is that’s causing all your drywall to crack. Without resolving the underlying problem, your drywall repairs and restorations will be all in vain.

Continue reading to learn the top causes for drywall cracking, as well as, that simple and convenient approach we mentioned before.

Indianapolis Drywall Crack Repair
Indianapolis Drywall Crack Repair 317-269-7319

Causes For Drywall Cracks

Drywall can crack for a number of reasons, making it a common occurrence. And often times, the appearance or location of a crack can say a lot about how and why it showed up. They can occur as a result of contractor error, stress produced from the foundation of the home settling overtime, and much more. The most common causes for cracking drywall include, but are not limited to:

⚠ Foundation Settling –When a foundation settles, it can create cracks in the walls and ceilings, overtime.

⚠ Moisture –Moisture can create drywall cracking, especially around screws and wall studs.

⚠ Wall Décor –Heavy wall décor can cause cracks in drywall overtime, but often remain hidden behind the art.

⚠ Structural Movement –Structural movements, like heavy storms, can cause stress, which can cause walls to crack.

What To Do About Drywall Cracks

If you have just one hairline crack or small hole, you can possibly repair it yourself. Any defects larger than those should be managed by a professional drywall repair company. They have the proper training and resources to repair drywall, efficiently and accurately. When people attempt to do their own drywall repairs, the potential for making mistakes is high. Without the proper resources and knowledge, drywall repairs can be messy, complex, and unpredictable. They are not the everyday chore you can easily tackle.

Indianapolis Drywall Repair You Can Trust

Call Drywall by AMFA 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.