We recommend adding 10-15% waste to your drywall estimate. This accounts for cuts, mistakes, and damaged boards. For rooms with complex shapes, multiple corners, or many cutouts, you may want to increase this to 15-20%.

Fire-resistant drywall (Type X) contains glass fibers and other materials that help slow the spread of fire. It's typically required by building codes in certain areas like garages, utility rooms, and between dwelling units. It's slightly thicker (5/8" vs. standard 1/2") and costs more than standard drywall.

The most common thickness is 1/2" for walls and ceilings in residential construction. 5/8" is used for fire resistance or where greater rigidity is needed. 3/8" is often used for repairs or remodeling over existing surfaces. 1/4" is best for curved surfaces or as a second layer over existing drywall.

As a general rule, you'll need about 32 screws per 4x8 sheet of drywall when attaching to wood studs. For ceilings, you should use 40-48 screws per sheet. Space screws approximately 12 inches apart on ceilings and 16 inches apart on walls. Our calculator uses these industry standards to estimate your screw needs.

Drywall installation is a project that many DIYers can tackle, but it requires patience, the right tools, and some skill. Simple projects like small rooms or walls may be manageable for beginners, while larger projects or ceilings might benefit from professional help. Finishing drywall (taping, mudding, and sanding) is particularly skill-intensive and can be challenging to get a smooth, professional finish.