Drywall is made from sand, water and gypsum pressed between sheets of thick paper. It is used for finishing walls and ceilings in both residential and commercial structures. Because it is made from mostly organic materials, drywall is susceptible to mold and rot, especially when installed near moisture-prone areas like cement. To prevent these types of problems with your drywall, it is important to furr out the cement wall before installing the drywall. This is done using steel framing members known as hat channel, which have the profile of a top hat when viewed from the side.
Instructions
1. Install hat channel every 16 to 20 inches across the wall. The hat channel should be hung vertically, with the wider section against the cement wall. Add three concrete nails to each side of the channel, securing them in place with a nail gun. The drywall will be fastened directly to the narrow, flat top of the channel.
2. Mark the locations of the hat channel on the floor below each piece so you'll have a reference point for attaching the drywall. You can use a regular pencil to make these marks, or stick a piece of blue painter's tape at each location for easy removal.
3. Hang your drywall horizontally along the hat channel. It should be fastened in place every 16 inches along each section of hat channel using drywall screws. Start installing the sheets of drywall at the top of the wall, working your way down.
4. Score the drywall with a utility knife and then snap it to create the desired lengths. Use a keyhole saw to cut out openings for electrical outlets, light switches and HVAC grilles.
5. Cover the seams of the drywall with tape, then apply a wide coat of joint compound using a trowel or putty knife. Wait for the joint compound to dry completely, then sand it smooth. Clean away sanding dust and repeat this process until the joints blend into the surrounding surface.
6. Wipe away all remaining sanding dust with a damp rag and tack cloth, then paint the wall as desired.
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