Getting Started

The hardest part of any project, for most people, is getting started. There are a few simple rules for any type of project, from creating a blog, to doing your own drywall.

1) Create a plan outline -

You can do this on paper, or in your head, whatever works best for you. I do recommend putting it down on paper. Even professionals work from lists and drawings! Get a idea of what you want to accomplish, and where you need to start. In home remodeling, the starting point often needs to be the demolition of the existing wall. Stay tuned to this site for future tips on demolition, and job preparation.

2) Assess your skills and tools -

Be realistic in your assessment! If you have never held a hammer in your hand, you're probably biting off more than you can chew. If you're handy around the house, you can do drywall and achieve professional results. The tools you will need are fairly basic for hanging drywall. The finishing tools are more specialized, but they won't cost you an arm and a leg, unless you buy every possible tool that's out there. That isn't feasible for one room, or some repair work. Future articles will get more in depth with tool lists and options.

3) Budgeting -

You will need to budget your money, and your time. If you work an average of 60 hours per week, you're only option may be to do your drywall project during a vacation. Only you can make that decision. Professional drywall hangers can hang 200 4' x 12' sheets of board, or more, in a single day in new construction work. That's not going to happen on a remodeling job, and it's not going to happen on your first project. In order to create your financial budget, you will first need a material list. Don't forget to include any tools you need to purchase in your budget amount.

4) Scheduling -

Form an estimate of your start date and the completion of each stage of your DIY project. This will be invaluable when it comes to material purchase and delivery. Make sure to leave a little flexibility in your schedule to allow for inclement weather. Once the materials are in the building, the weather has little affect. (Humidity will play a big part in the time between finish coats!) However; delivery can't be accomplished in anything more than a drizzle. Drywall is not accepting of water.

Once you have your plans in place, you're ready to tackle your DIY drywall project. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks on how to do drywall and get professional results!