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Here s another great tip from BobVila.com. Although the two words are often used interchangeably, sheetrock is actually a brand name for drywall, which is gypsum sandwiched between two sheets of paper or, more recently, between two sheets of fiberglass. Any way you say it, drywall makes finishing walls very practical. For large jobs or those with very high ceilings, hire a pro. But most smaller jobs can be tackled by do-it-yourselfers. Before you get started, run the side of a hammer head along the framing to check for uneven surfaces or any protruding staples or nails. The tools you ll need are a straightedge and measuring tape for sizing your pieces, a utility knife for scoring and snapping, and a keyhole saw or rotary tool for cutting holes for outlets and windows. While some pros still attach drywall with nails, most find it easier to use an electric drill and that wonderful multi-purpose fastener, the drywall screw. You ll need about a pound of nails or screws for every 5 sheets of drywall. Metal corner beads go on all outside corners; inside corners get taped along with the joints between panels. Using pre-mixed joint compound is easier and less messy than mixing your own. You want a mix that s not too quick-drying if you re a beginner so you have a grace period to work in. Pros use about 5 gallons of compound for every 100 square feet, but you may need more depending on your level of experience. Installing drywall involves a series of short steps over a 3- to 4-day period. Follow the steps on BobVila.com for taping and finishing joints, and be sure to wear safety gear and a dust mask while sanding. If you re doing a ceiling, get a helper or a drywall lift. Find out more at BobVila.com: the ultimate home improvement web site! 2008 BobVila.com

John McEvoy of Thorough Construction is leading the crew for the drywall installation. They have chosen DensArmor Plus, a 5/8-inch fiberglass-faced drywall from Georgia-Pacific. Eliminating the paper or organic materials from the drywall makes it mold and mildew resistant. The thicker drywall will make for stiffer walls, especially since they are so high, at twelve-and-a-half feet throughout. McEvoy decides on a vertical installation since the boards are exactly four feet wide, which will make for less cutting and fitting. He shows how corners are made with steel studs as the first piece of drywall slides into the corner pocket, a metal stud is secured in front of that, and another sheet comes in at a 90-degree angle to be nailed onto the studs in back.

House four of the Elmwood project. Replacing ceiling with a metal ceiling and Medallion cabinets install.