How to Cover an Exposed Basement Ceiling

Make a deadman brace. Cut a length of 2-by-4 wood that is just 3/4 of an inch shorter than your ceiling. Attach a smaller 2-by-4 to the end of this board, horizontally, to create a "T" shape.

Attach the drywall panels, having a friend help lift each panel. Slide the deadman brace underneath the end of each piece to hold it in place as you secure it to the ceiling. Use a cordless screwdriver and drive in drywall screws through the panel and into the ceiling joist at a rate of one screw for every 12 inches. Secure each panel in this manner. Cut panels as needed using a utility knife.

Tape your seams. Cover every seam with drywall tape. If you use self-adhesive tape, you do not need to place mud underneath the tape. Press the tape down firmly.

Put joint compound over the tape. Use a putty knife and spread a thin layer of joint compound over the tape and over the dimples where you placed your screws. Extend the compound out from the tape by a 1/2 inch on each side. Scrape off the excess as you work. Let this set until it is dry.

Sand down the compound. Use a fine-grit sandpaper. Smooth out the compound until it is flush with the rest of the panel.

Prime and paint the ceiling. Edge with a paintbrush and use a roller for the rest of the ceiling. Let the primer dry for four to six hours. Roll on at least one coat of ceiling paint and let that dry.