Plasterboard Ceiling Installation

Measure the ceiling length, perpendicular to the joists, from one wall outward to the last joist within 8 feet. Record the measurement from the middle of the joist edge.

Mark the measurement on a piece of plasterboard. Set a level at the measurement, on the mark, and score the plasterboard alongside the level with a razor knife. Break the piece cleanly at the scored line.

Hold the plasterboard up to the ceiling. Put the cut side toward the wall at the starting end so the factory edge is sitting along the middle of the last joist. Shooting drywall screws every 6 inches along each stud above the sheet with a screw gun.

Set the next sheet of plasterboard off the end of the first one. The far end should line up with the middle of the joist that's 8 feet away. Repeat, hanging plasterboard sheet until you get to the far wall. Cut the last piece to fit.

Repeat the procedure for the second course of plasterboard sheets, starting it at the opposite end so the ends of the boards are staggered between different joists. Repeat for each course, cutting the ends as needed. Cover the entire ceiling.

Press self-adhesive drywall tape over the seams of the plasterboard sheets. Cover the tape with joint compound, spreading it on with a drywall knife, so the line of compound completely covers the tape. Get it smooth. Let it set six hours.

Add two more coats of compound over the seams, making each slightly wider than the one before it. Let the final coat dry for 12 hours. Sand it flat and paint the ceiling.