Removing Drywall Ceilings in a Ranch House

Cover the floor of the entire work area with drop cloths. Overlap the cloths in such a way to prevent dust and debris from reaching the floor during demolition. Secure the edges of the drop cloths with painter's tape to hold it in place.

Cover any exposed vents, outlets and switches in the work area with painter's tape. Keep the tape only on the items being covered while avoiding the painted drywall surfaces to prevent discoloration and flaking of the paint.

Set up your step ladder in the center of the work area. Check the side locks on your step ladder to be sure both are secure to prevent collapse of the ladder while you are working from the elevated surface.

Shut off the power to the work area at the breaker box. Remove vents, light fixtures, ceiling fans and other items attached to the ceiling with your screwdriver. Place these items in a safe place, outside of the work area.

Cut through the drywall ceiling with your razor knife making an "X." Press in the center of the "X"-cut with your hand to make a hole in the ceiling.

Pull pieces of the drywall ceiling free. Drop each piece onto the drop cloth-covered floor.

Pull the insulation from between the exposed roof joists above your head. Be careful not to damage the strips of insulation so that each one can be replaced later.

Continue the process to remove all of the drywall from between the roof joists above the ceiling. Have your assistant hold the ladder while you are on it and have him pick up the pieces, placing each into an out-of-the-way staging area, while you move the ladder as needed to continue working.

Remove drywall screws from the roof joists with your screwdriver. Hand each of the screws to your assistant for safekeeping until the project is complete. A 5-gallon bucket will hold all of the screws while eliminating any chance of loose screws damaging the floor inside of the work area.

Remove nails from the roof joists with the claw of your framing hammer. Hand each nail to your assistant to be placed into the bucket with the scrap screws.