Plaster ceilings add value.
Plaster ceilings are installed with a backing of drywall, since the plaster is applied over the drywall. Plaster ceilings are less likely to crack, more resistant to knocks or denting and have a decorative finish. Though the materials may be more costly, the elegance added to a room or household will benefit in the long run, cutting down on repairs and materials.
Instructions
1. Nail in furring strips across the ceiling joists. If there are any obstructions such as pipes and ductwork, the furring strips will ensure an evenly hanging ceiling.
2. Mark the ceiling joists on the wall studs to use as reference points when driving in screws into the drywall.
3. Apply drywall adhesive using a caulking gun along the length of the ceiling joists. Apply to only the length of the drywall as the adhesive will dry in 10 minutes.
4. Hang the drywall into the corners first using a drywall hanger. Fix it snuggly against the corners. Fit subsequent sheets of drywall snuggly next to each other so that the edges of the drywall butt together.
5. Drive in drywall screws into the drywall 3/8 inches away from the corners and seven inches apart around the perimeter. For the interior drywall, drive in screws 12 inches apart along the ceiling joists.
6. Stagger the seams of the drywall by starting the second row with a half sheet. Measure the drywall and calculate the length for half the drywall. Mark the line and score it with a utility knife. Run the knife repeatedly following the score and snap it off.
7. Tape the drywall joints with drywall tape.
8. Cut out any segments for fixtures with a rotary drill or a keyhole saw.
9. Mix plaster into a plastic bucket following the manufacturer's directions.
10. Apply the plaster onto the drywall using a trowel. Apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat, letting each layer dry before applying the next.
11. Sand the ceiling with fine sandpaper.
Tags: ceiling joists, Plaster ceilings, drywall adhesive, furring strips, inches apart, into drywall, screws into