How to Install Drywall in the Basement

Turning your basement into finished living space is a way to expand your home without new exterior construction. Drywall creates finished walls and covers unsightly concrete and cement block. If your basement is subject to problems with moisture, use "green board," a type of drywall usually used in bathrooms that resists mold and mildew. If you have a small or crowded basement, you may have to cut the drywall to get it into the space.

Pencil
Framing square
Tape measure
Utility knife
Drywall screws, 1 1/2 inch long
Screw gun
Ladder

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the height of your basement wall from floor to ceiling, using the tape measure, beginning in one corner of the basement. Transfer this measurement to a piece of drywall and cut it to that length with a utility knife.
- 2
  Measure electrical outlets, windows or other features that fall within the area to be covered by the first piece of drywall. Transfer these measurements to the drywall and cut out a space to accommodate the features.
- 3
  Stand the drywall up and press it against the wall. Secure the drywall to the studs behind it by driving drywall screws through the drywall and into the studs. Put in a screw every 12 inches vertically and spaced horizontally so that they meet the studs.
- 4
  Continue to install sheets of drywall in the same manner around the perimeter of the basement, pressing each one closely against the previous one to create tight joints between them.

How to Set Up a Workout Space on Shag Carpet

How to Split a Queen Box Spring to Get It Upstairs

Room by Room Remodeling