How to Install a Drywall Ceiling

Change the look of a room by installing a new ceiling.

Acoustic panels or other ceiling treatments can be replaced easily by a drywall ceiling, giving your room a more streamlined look. 

Materials and Tools:

drywall lift
straightedge
ladders
power drill
utility knife 
hammer
five-in-one painter's tool
mud masher
scrubber
nail puller
mud tray 
drywall knife
carpenter's pencil
gloves 
mask 
safety glasses
sheets of drywall
drywall mud
drywall tape
drywall screws

Steps:

1. Remove the old ceiling tiles and pull out any old nails. Scrape off any bumps of old adhesive using a utility knife and hammer. Make sure to wear safety goggles.
2. Remove any ceiling-mounted light fixtures. Turn the power off first, and check the fixture with a voltage detector to make sure it's off.
3. Use the straightedge to mark rows on the drywall for the screws. Fit the first piece of drywall in the drywall lift and hoist it into place. Start in the corner and work your way out.
4. Attach the drywall using drywall screws and a power drill. Space the screws about six to eight inches apart. If it's a shiplap ceiling (smooth wood panels), the screws can be attached anywhere. Otherwise, they would have to go into the center of the ceiling joists. Continue until all the drywall is installed.
5. Load up a tray with mud, whip it with the drywall knife until it's nice and soft. Start filling in the screw holes first.
6. Next start on the seams. Place a thick layer of mud on a seam, then center a piece of drywall tape along the seam. Cover the tape with a little more mud and smooth it out with your drywall knife.
7. Wait until the drywall mud is completely dry, then come back and work down rough areas using sponges, scrubbers and drywall knives.
8. The amount of sanding you'll need to do depends on the type of ceiling treatment you're using. You'll need to sand less if you're going to apply a textured treatment.

Next Up

How to Repair Drywall

A well-placed piece of art may be the quickest way to disguise a hole in your wall. But for a professional fix, follow our tips on how to patch a hole in drywall.

How to Remove Drywall Anchors

Wall anchors can be tricky to get out of a wall. Follow these tips to reduce damage and repair unsightly holes.

How to Replace a Window

When it's time to replace an outdated, inefficient window, it can be hard to know where to start, so we’ve got everything you need to know to get the job done.

How to Remove a Popcorn Ceiling in 7 Simple Steps

Learn how to remove a textured ceiling without creating a mess using these simple steps.

How to Find Studs in a Wall Without Using a Stud Finder

Finding wall studs without a stud finder doesn't have to be a guessing game. If you're hanging something heavy on the wall, follow these best practices and pinpoint a stud with ease.

Top 10 Ways to Paint Like a Pro

For a professional-looking paint job, do what the experts do.

How to Install Wainscoting to a Wall

Add an instant touch of class to a room with these step-by-step instructions on installing beadboard wainscoting.

Spackle vs. Joint Compound: What's the Difference?

Wait a second — spackle and joint compound aren't the same thing? Though they seem similar, spackle and joint compound serve completely different purposes. Find out which one is right for your project.

How To Install Picture Frame Molding

As a wall treatment, picture-frame molding is a simple way to give an elegant, classic look to an ordinary space — as well an ideal way to highlight framed art.

How to Install Vinyl Plank Flooring

Many homeowners have turned to vinyl plank flooring as an alternative to hardwood or tile because it’s easy to install, very durable and comes in a huge variety of styles. Learn how to transform your home with high-quality vinyl floors.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.