How Much Does Drywall Installation Cost?

When planning a renovation or building a new home, the cost of drywall installation is an important factor to consider. The expense involved in installing drywall varies widely based on several key aspects of your project. Here’s a look at what you can expect to spend on drywall, from small rooms to entire homes.

How Much Does Drywall Installation Cost?

The overall cost of drywall installation can range from $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot. This variance depends primarily on the specific requirements of the project, including the type of drywall selected, the height of the ceilings, and the desired finish level. Material costs alone are generally between $0.50 and $0.80 per square foot, with the remainder covering the labor involved in hanging and finishing the drywall.

Detailed Room-by-Room Cost Breakdown

For more targeted estimates, consider the typical costs associated with drywalling rooms of different sizes:

Small to Medium Rooms: Installing drywall in a standard 12′ x 12′ bedroom might cost anywhere from $580 to $1,800, depending on the complexity and finish quality. Smaller spaces like a 5′ x 8′ bathroom tend to range from $300 to $1,000.

Larger Living Spaces: For bigger areas, such as a 16′ x 20′ living room, the price can vary from $850 to $3,100. Similarly, primary bedrooms measuring 12′ x 20′ may cost between $750 and $2,600 to drywall.

Garages and Basements: Larger functional spaces like a 20′ x 20′ garage or a 1,000 square foot basement can see costs ranging from $1,000 to $3,900 and $1,500 to $7,000, respectively.

Costs for Entire Homes

When drywalling entire homes, the scale of the project significantly affects the price. For instance:

• A 1,500-square-foot home could be priced between $5,500 and $22,000
• Moving up to a 2,000-square-foot home, the range increases to $8,000 to $30,000
• For larger homes around 2,500 square feet, expect costs to fall between $9,000 and $35,000
• The largest homes, such as those measuring 3,000 square feet, might incur costs from $10,000 up to $45,000

Drywall Types and Their Installation Costs

When you’re looking to install drywall, the type you choose can significantly influence both the cost and the application process. Understanding the different types of drywall can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs, whether you’re dealing with a damp basement, a high-risk fire area, or just need standard wall coverings. Here’s a guide to what you might expect to pay for each type of drywall, factoring in both materials and installation.

Standard Drywall

For most residential projects, standard drywall is the go-to material. It’s cost-effective, straightforward to install, and provides a clean, smooth surface for painting or wallpapering. The average cost for materials typically ranges from $0.42 to $0.50 per square foot. When it comes to installation, prices can vary from $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot. This type of drywall is ideal for the majority of interior walls and ceilings in a home.

Specialty Drywall Options

For homes and projects with specific needs, specialty drywall options provide tailored solutions:

Plaster Blue Board: This is slightly more expensive than standard drywall, costing about $0.46 to $0.58 per square foot for materials alone, with total installation costs ranging from $1.55 to $2.55 per square foot. Blue board is ideal for plaster applications, offering a robust base that is suitable for heavier finishes.

Fire-Rated Drywall: Known also as Type X, this drywall is necessary in areas where additional fire resistance is required. Material costs are between $0.50 and $0.88 per square foot, and installation can run from $1.60 to $3.50 per square foot. It’s tougher to work with but essential for enhancing safety in vulnerable areas of a building.

Moisture-Resistant Drywall: Often referred to as “green board,” this type of drywall is perfect for damp areas like bathrooms and basements. It costs between $0.54 and $0.63 per square foot for materials, with installation prices ranging from $1.65 to $2.75 per square foot.

Mold-Resistant Drywall: Similar in price to moisture-resistant drywall, this “purple board” also prevents mold growth, making it an excellent choice for regions prone to dampness and mold issues.

Eco-Friendly Drywall: If sustainability is a priority, eco-friendly drywall is made with a high percentage of recycled materials. Expect to pay between $0.58 and $0.83 per square foot for materials and $1.70 to $3.50 per square foot for installation.

Paperless Drywall: This type features a fiberglass covering that offers enhanced moisture and mold resistance. Material costs are about $0.63 to $0.92 per square foot, with a higher installation cost due to its tougher texture, ranging from $1.75 to $4 per square foot.

Soundproof Drywall: For ultimate noise reduction, soundproof drywall is substantially denser, priced between $2.08 and $3.15 per square foot for materials, with installation costs soaring to $3.55 to $7.50 per square foot. It’s an excellent choice for sound-sensitive environments like home theaters or music rooms.

Additional Expenses

When planning your budget, don’t forget about the finishing touches:

• Taping and mudding are essential for smooth joints and corners
• Sanding is necessary before painting to ensure an even surface
• Primer and paint will also add to your costs, depending on the quality and type of finish you desire

Levels of finish range from the bare minimum (where the contractor just hangs the drywall) to a level 5 finish, which includes multiple coats of joint compound and a skim coat for a glass-smooth finish. Each level-up increases the cost due to more materials and labor involved.

Factors Influencing Cost

Several factors can impact the total cost of installing drywall:

• The size and shape of the room: Complex shapes or high ceilings require more time and material to cover
• The type of drywall: As mentioned, specialized drywall, like moisture-resistant or soundproof varieties, cost more
• Regional differences: Labor and material costs can vary significantly depending on where you live in the U.S.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

While DIY can save some cash, it often lacks the finish and speed of professional work. Professionals charge anywhere from $50 to $100 per hour, and they bring the expertise needed for a top-quality finish. If you’re not experienced, the DIY route might lead to less-than-desirable results and potentially more cost in the long run if repairs are needed.

Longevity and Maintenance

Drywall is a durable material, typically lasting between 40 and 60 years if properly maintained. Factors like moisture, physical damage, and environmental conditions can shorten its lifespan, but regular upkeep can extend it.

Understanding these aspects of drywall installation helps you appreciate the craftsmanship behind the seemingly blank walls and the detailed work that goes into making them smooth and sturdy. Whether you choose to hire a professional or take on the task yourself, knowing these cost factors ensures you’re well prepared for your next renovation project.