How to Install Drywall Above a Fireplace

Measure the wall above the fireplace from one side to the other. Measure a piece of heat-resistant drywall to this size, minus ¼-inch, and cut the drywall by scoring it with a utility knife and then bending it at the line until it breaks.

Hold the sheet of drywall up to the wall a few inches below the ceiling, so that it lines up with the edges of the wall. Mark the drywall where it touches each stud.

Slide the drywall up to the top of the wall so that it lines up with the ceiling. Center the drywall so 1/8-inch of space is left at each end.

Drill 1 ¼-inch drywall screws through the drywall and into the studs at 12- to 16-inch increments. Use the marks that you made at the top of the drywall sheet as guides for lining the screws up on the studs. Sink the screw heads into the drywall by 1/8 inch.

Cut a second piece of drywall to the same length of the wall if one sheet didn’t cover the height of the wall. Secure the drywall sheet in place with drywall screws. Continue in this fashion until you've covered the entire wall.

Apply drywall mud to the space left at the ends of the drywall to fill in the 1/8-inch of empty space at the corner. Cover this drywall mud with a metal corner, so that it sits evenly with the drywall. Allow the mud to dry for 24 hours.

Use a putty knife to spread joint compound along the seams between drywall panels, over the heads of screws used to secure the drywall and over the metal corner you placed. Smooth the compound down to sit level with the drywall surface. Allow the compound to dry for 24 hours.

Paint the drywall using the color of your choice. Use interior paint and apply as many coats as necessary to get the color you desire.