How do I count sheets for a room?

Total the wall and ceiling area, divide by 32, and round up after adding 10% waste.

Does finish level change the price?

A lot. A smooth Level 5 finish takes far more labor than a Level 2 in a garage.

Should I estimate hang and finish separately?

Yes — hanging and finishing are different rates, so break them out for accuracy.

Estimating

How do I estimate a drywall job?

Quick answer

Add up all wall and ceiling area, divide by 32 square feet per 4x8 sheet, and add 10% for waste to get your sheet count. Then price sheets, screws, tape, compound and the labor to hang and finish.

Definition

A drywall estimate prices the materials and labor to hang, tape, and finish drywall over a given wall and ceiling area, by finish level.

Step by step

1Measure total wall and ceiling square footage.
2Divide by 32 sq ft per sheet and add 10% waste.
3Add screws (~40/sheet), tape, corner bead and compound.
4Price labor by finish level, from hang-only to Level 5.

Key takeaways

A 4x8 sheet covers 32 sq ft.
Finish level drives labor more than material.
Don't forget tape, bead, primer and sanding.

Frequently asked questions

Handy calculators

Drywall Calculator

Sheets of drywall, screws and joint compound for any wall area.

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Labor Cost Calculator

Total labor cost from crew size, hours and hourly rate.

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Keep reading

Put it to work

Drywall Installation

Hang, tape and finish drywall, priced by the sheet.

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Drywall Repair

Patch holes, cracks and water damage, priced fast.