Home Garden

How to Peel Drywall

Homeowners must remove drywall when renovating a room or repairing serious damage. Since drywall is inexpensive and fragile, it is impractical to save any for future building use. Homeowners must still use caution when removing the material to prevent electrical shock or damage to pipes and ducts. Wear work clothes, sturdy gloves, goggles and a dust mask when removing drywall.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Putty knife
  • Pry bar
  • Hammer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn off the power in your work area from your circuit breaker.

    • 2

      Remove cover plates, baseboards and trim around windows and doors with a screwdriver, pry bar and putty knife.

    • 3

      Knock on the drywall with your fist. If you hear a hollow sound, it is safe to hammer into the area. If you hear a thud, pipes or other structures may be behind the drywall.

    • 4

      Hammer a series of holes into the drywall.

    • 5

      Grab the holes and pull toward you to peel the drywall away.