Drywallers are skilled trade professionals responsible for constructing smooth walls and ceilings in homes and buildings. Their work involves measuring, cutting, and placing gypsum-based sheets, tapeing, sanding, and finishing seams and screw holes.
They ensure a clean, tidy workspace and adhere to safety protocols. Their duties also include repairing damage and installing soundproof drywall.
Job Duties
Drywallers are responsible for installing and finishing drywall for residential and commercial construction projects. They read project blueprints and specifications to determine materials, work procedures, and tools required. They measure, cut, and fit drywall sheets to walls and ceilings and use tape and joint compound to secure them in place. They also sand and texture surfaces to prepare them for finishing, such as painting or wallpapering.
In new construction projects, drywallers may collaborate with other tradespeople to integrate electrical wiring, plumbing pipes, and insulation into the wall structure. They need to have good communication and teamwork skills to meet deadlines and ensure that the quality of drywall meets industry standards.
For renovation projects, drywallers need to be able to work around existing fixtures and address any structural issues. They are also tasked with repairing holes, cracks, and other imperfections in the drywall surface. They often need to work in tight or confined spaces, so they must be physically fit and able to lift heavy objects. They also need to have a high level of attention to detail and precision when working with hand and power tools. In addition, they need to have a strong understanding of building codes and safety regulations. This job requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and some vocational or technical training is often preferred.
Education and Training Requirements
The education and training requirements for drywallers vary from state to state. However, a high school diploma is typically needed to be considered for this career path. Taking courses in math and shopping is also a good idea because drywall work involves a lot of measuring and using tools. Many drywallers learn their trade through an apprenticeship, and it’s a great way to earn while learning the skills of the trade. Some vocational and technical schools offer specialized training programs in drywall installation and finishing.
Upon becoming a skilled drywall installer, it’s possible to advance to the role of a drywall finisher or taper. This job pays better than the average drywall installer, and it involves working in commercial buildings. Drywall finishers must be able to read blueprints, prepare surfaces, use and maintain state-of-the-art tools, and abide by health and safety regulations.
A drywall contractor is another option for those who wish to pursue advanced responsibilities in the field of drywall. These professionals manage a team of drywallers and are responsible for bidding on projects, creating schedules, and overseeing budgets. Additional responsibilities include managing project timelines and client communications.
In order to become a licensed drywall contractor, it’s usually necessary to pass an examination and meet other criteria set by the state or city. Getting licensed can improve your earning potential, and it’s generally a must for those who want to manage their own construction business or take on large-scale projects.
Work Environment
Drywallers often work on construction sites, either new-build or renovation projects. Depending on the project, it could involve residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. The work is mainly indoors but sometimes requires workers to work on the exterior walls of buildings, or in confined spaces. The job can be physically demanding, particularly if a large number of sheets of drywall need to be installed or removed. It also requires a great deal of physical strength to lift the panels, and fine motor skills to make precise cuts that minimize waste.
On new-build projects, drywall contractors may work alongside other tradespeople, such as carpenters, electricians, or plumbers. These collaborations require effective communication and teamwork to ensure the drywall is installed according to the building plans and specifications. The drywall installers must coordinate with these other tradespeople to ensure the drywall is placed correctly over electrical wiring and plumbing pipes, or to cover existing structures such as pillars or ceilings.
The work of a drywall contractor is considered labor intensive, but the job can be rewarding for those who have the right personality traits. They tend to be realistic individuals, who enjoy hands-on problem solving and tasks that are practical and real-world. These individuals are independent, stable, persistent, and genuine. They also have strong conventional interests, which means they prefer to follow set procedures and routines.
Salary
Drywallers, also known as drywall installers and ceiling tile installers, work on restoration projects and home construction. They measure the rooms they are working in, cut the drywall to fit those spaces, and then attach it to wall studs. Most drywallers learn their trade through on-the-job training, although some enter formal apprenticeships that can take three or four years to complete.
Typically, a high school diploma is required to become a drywaller. Some drywall companies prefer applicants with a degree in their field or at least extensive experience in the industry. A dependable worker who can follow instructions well and pay close attention to detail is preferred.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration requires drywallers to wear protective equipment when they are performing their job duties. These workers are often exposed to chemicals or dust, so they must wear masks and gloves when handling materials. They may also need to stand, crouch, or crawl for long periods of time while working on a project.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, drywall and ceiling tile installers and tapers earn a median annual salary of $47,360. Drywallers who are employed by building finishing contractors achieve a salary of about $50,710. Those who function as foundation, structure, and building exterior contractors make about $56,430 per year.