Boston ADU Drywall Installation: Complete Guide to Drywall Hanging, Taping, and Finishing

Drywall installation marks the transition from rough construction to finish work in Boston ADU projects, requiring precise execution to achieve smooth, professional surfaces ready for paint and trim. Quality drywall work provides the foundation for attractive interiors while meeting fire safety codes and sound transmission requirements. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of ADU drywall installation, from material selection through final finishing.

Drywall Materials and Specifications

Selecting appropriate drywall materials for Boston ADUs requires understanding local building codes, moisture conditions, and performance requirements specific to accessory dwelling unit applications.

Standard Drywall Types

Regular Drywall (White Board)

• Thickness: 1/2" standard for walls, 5/8" for ceilings
• Applications: Interior walls and ceilings in dry areas
• Fire rating: 1/2" provides 30-minute fire resistance
• Cost: Most economical option for standard applications
• Availability: Standard 4x8, 4x10, and 4x12 sheets

Moisture-Resistant Drywall (Green Board)

• Applications: Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and high-humidity areas
• Core treatment: Moisture-resistant additives in gypsum core
• Paper facing: Treated paper resists moisture absorption
• Limitations: Not suitable for direct tile application
• Installation: Same techniques as regular drywall

Mold-Resistant Drywall

• Core composition: Fiberglass or synthetic facing materials
• Mold resistance: Superior to standard moisture-resistant products
• Applications: Basements, bathrooms, and humid environments
• Cost: Premium pricing but excellent performance
• Tile backer: Some products suitable for direct tile application

Planning and Layout

Measurement and Material Estimation

Square Footage Calculations

• Wall area: Length × height minus window and door openings
• Ceiling area: Room length × width
• Waste factor: Add 10-15% for cuts and waste
• Special areas: Sloped ceilings require careful measurement
• Access considerations: Plan for material delivery to upper floors

Sheet Layout Planning

• Minimize joints: Use longest sheets possible
• Horizontal vs. vertical: Consider room height and sheet availability
• Joint staggering: Offset joints between adjacent sheets
• Butt joint placement: Position where least visible
• Electrical cutouts: Plan for outlet and switch locations

Tool and Material Requirements

Installation Tools

• Drywall saw: For straight cuts and openings
• Utility knife: Score-and-snap cutting method
• T-square: Accurate measuring and marking
• Drywall lift: Essential for ceiling installation
• Screw gun: Variable speed with depth control
• Hammer: For nail installation where required

Finishing Materials

• Joint compound: All-purpose, topping, and setting compounds
• Paper tape: Standard for most joint applications
• Mesh tape: Self-adhesive for repairs and patches
• Corner bead: Metal or vinyl for outside corners
• Sandpaper: Various grits for final smoothing

Installation Process

Preparation and Setup

Framing Inspection

• Plumb and square: Verify framing alignment
• Fastening: Check for loose or protruding fasteners
• Electrical rough-in: Ensure all boxes properly positioned
• Insulation: Verify complete installation without voids
• Vapor barrier: Check for tears or gaps if present

Material Acclimation

• Storage conditions: Keep materials dry and flat
• Temperature: Allow materials to reach room temperature
• Humidity control: Maintain stable moisture conditions
• Handling: Prevent damage during transport and storage

Hanging Techniques

Ceiling Installation

1. Start with ceilings before walls
2. Use drywall lift for safe, accurate placement
3. Install perpendicular to joists when possible
4. Maintain 1/4" gap at perimeter for expansion
5. Fasten every 12" on center minimum
6. Drive screws just below surface, not breaking paper

Wall Installation

1. Install top sheet first, tight to ceiling
2. Butt bottom sheet tight to top sheet
3. Leave 1/4" gap at floor for flooring expansion
4. Stagger vertical joints between adjacent walls
5. Cut electrical openings accurately
6. Check for proper fastener spacing and depth

Cutting and Fitting

Straight Cuts

• Score-and-snap method: Score face, snap, cut back paper
• Utility knife: Keep blade sharp for clean cuts
• T-square guide: Ensure straight, square cuts
• Edge preparation: Sand rough edges smooth

Electrical Cutouts

• Measuring: Accurate measurement from reference points
• Marking: Transfer measurements to drywall surface
• Cutting tools: Drywall saw or rotary cutter
• Test fit: Check fit before final installation
• Tight fit: Minimize gaps around electrical boxes

Taping and Mudding Process

Joint Compound Application

First Coat (Embedding)

1. Apply compound to joint with 4-6" knife
2. Embed tape firmly, removing excess compound
3. Leave thin layer of compound over tape
4. Remove air bubbles and wrinkles
5. Feather edges to blend with drywall surface

Second Coat (Fill)

• Width: 8-10" knife for wider, smoother application
• Build up: Fill any low spots or depressions
• Feathering: Blend edges gradually into surface
• Thickness: Keep coats thin to minimize sanding
• Drying time: Allow complete drying between coats

Third Coat (Finish)

• Width: 12" knife for final smoothing
• Texture matching: Blend with surrounding surface
• Final feathering: Eliminate visible edges
• Quality control: Check for defects under angled light

Corner and Detail Work

Outside Corners

• Corner bead installation: Straight, plumb, and secure
• Fastening: Nails or screws every 12" maximum
• Compound application: Build up gradually in thin coats
• Sanding: Smooth transitions and eliminate ridges

Inside Corners

• Tape application: Fold paper tape along crease
• Compound placement: Apply to both sides of corner
• Tool technique: Corner knife for smooth finish
• Crack prevention: Avoid over-tightening corners

Sanding and Surface Preparation

Sanding Techniques

Hand Sanding

• Grit sequence: Start with 120 grit, finish with 150-220
• Sanding blocks: Use for flat surfaces and straight lines
• Light pressure: Avoid over-sanding and gouging
• Dust control: Vacuum frequently to see progress
• Final inspection: Check under angled light

Power Sanding

• Pole sanders: Efficient for walls and ceilings
• Dust collection: Use sanders with vacuum attachment
• Technique: Keep sander moving to avoid gouges
• Progressive grits: Start coarse, finish fine
• Safety equipment: Respirator and eye protection

Surface Quality Standards

Level 4 Finish (Standard)

• Joint compound: Applied to all joints and fasteners
• Sanding: Smooth surface free of tool marks
• Primer: Required before paint application
• Inspection: No visible joints under normal lighting
• Applications: Standard for painted surfaces

Level 5 Finish (Premium)

• Skim coat: Thin layer of compound over entire surface
• Smoothness: Uniform texture throughout
• Critical lighting: No visible imperfections
• Applications: High-end finishes, glossy paints
• Cost: Premium labor and materials

Special Applications and Considerations

Fire-Rated Assemblies

Code Requirements

• Garage separation: 1-hour fire rating typically required
• Multi-family separation: Between dwelling units
• Assembly ratings: Specific UL-listed assemblies
• Installation compliance: Follow tested assembly details
• Inspection requirements: Special attention during inspections

Installation Details

• Fastener specifications: Type and spacing per assembly
• Joint treatment: Specific compounds and tapes
• Penetrations: Fire-rated sealants for openings
• Documentation: Maintain assembly certification

Sound Control Applications

Sound Transmission Class (STC) Requirements

• Multi-family construction: Minimum STC ratings
• Assembly design: Specific wall and ceiling assemblies
• Installation quality: Critical for performance
• Testing verification: Field testing may be required

Sound Control Techniques

• Double-wall construction: Staggered stud assemblies
• Resilient channels: Decouple drywall from framing
• Sound-damping compound: Between multiple drywall layers
• Seal penetrations: Prevent sound flanking paths

Quality Control and Troubleshooting

Common Problems and Solutions

Joint Visibility

• Cause: Insufficient feathering or sanding
• Solution: Additional compound coats and sanding
• Prevention: Proper technique and lighting during work

Fastener Pops

• Cause: Improper fastener depth or lumber shrinkage
• Solution: Reset fasteners and apply compound
• Prevention: Proper fastener installation and material acclimation

Cracking

• Cause: Building settlement, lumber movement, or poor technique
• Solution: Re-tape with mesh tape and flexible compound
• Prevention: Proper framing and installation techniques

Final Inspection and Touch-Up

Pre-Paint Inspection

• Lighting inspection: Use angled light to reveal defects
• Surface feel: Run hand over surface to detect imperfections
• Joint visibility: Check for visible tape edges
• Fastener coverage: Ensure all fasteners properly covered
• Corner quality: Verify straight, smooth corners

Touch-Up Procedures

• Spot sanding: Address specific problem areas
• Additional compound: Fill any remaining defects
• Prime coating: Seal surfaces before final inspection
• Final sanding: Light sanding of primer coat
• Quality verification: Final approval before painting

Boston ADU drywall installation requires attention to detail, proper technique, and quality materials to achieve professional results. Success depends on careful planning, skilled installation, and thorough finishing work that creates smooth surfaces ready for paint and trim. Working with experienced drywall contractors ensures quality results that enhance the overall appearance and value of your ADU project.

Quality drywall installation provides the foundation for attractive, professional interiors that appeal to tenants and add value to your property investment.