Drywall Installation Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost to hang and finish drywall for new construction or remodels.
Drywall installation typically costs between $1.50 and $3.50 per square foot. Pricing depends on finish level (Level 3-5) and ceiling height.
Calculate Your Estimate
Project Location
Choose which state the project is located.
Project Details
Define the scope of the drywall project.
Additional Services:
Why Use Our Drywall Cost Calculator?
Drywall quotes can be confusing because some price by the 'sheet' and others by 'square foot'. Our calculator provides a clear, all-inclusive estimate based on your room's surface area. By adjusting for factors like Finish Level (Level 5 vs Level 3) and High Ceilings, you can get a realistic idea of the budget needed for a professional finish.
Manually Calculating Drywall Installation Costs
To estimate manually:
- Calculate Surface Area: Measure Wall Length x Height. Don't subtract windows/doors (this covers waste).
- Determine Finish Level: Level 3 is standard for painting. Level 5 is a premium skim coat for smooth walls.
- Ceiling Height: Ceilings over 8ft require scaffolding and more labor.
- Material Cost: A 4x8 sheet costs ~$15. Tape, mud, and screws add ~20%. Labor is usually 2-3x material.
Manual Calculation Formula:
Est. Cost = Wall_Area_SqFt × (Labor_Rate + Material_Rate)
*Example: 500 sq.ft room. Labor ($1.80) + Material ($0.60) = $2.40/sq.ft.
Total = 500 × $2.40 = $1,200.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Drywall Cost Calculator estimate pricing?
The calculator applies local labor rates and current material costs (per 4x8 sheet) to the user-provided square footage and finish level. It generates a baseline estimate for professional installation.
How much does professional drywall installation cost?
Typical market rates range from $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot of wall surface area. This price generally includes hanging, taping, mudding, and sanding.
What distinguishes a 'Level 5' finish?
A Level 5 finish involves applying a thin skim coat of joint compound over the entire wall surface. This premium finish creates a perfectly smooth base for high-gloss paints or heavy lighting conditions.
Is sanding dust avoidable?
While standard sanding creates dust, modern professional crews often utilize dust-free vacuum sanding systems to minimize airborne particles and mess.
Can new drywall be installed directly over old walls?
Layering new drywall over old is possible but often complicates electrical outlets and door jambs. Demolition of the existing wallboard is generally recommended for the best long-term results.
What is the standard drying time?
Joint compound typically requires 24 hours to cure between coats. A standard room installation usually spans 3-4 days to complete hanging, taping, and finishing cycles.
When is moisture-resistant drywall required?
In high-humidity areas like bathrooms or basements, moisture-resistant panels (often green or purple) are necessary to prevent mold growth and water damage.
Does the installation quote include painting?
Standard drywall contracts typically conclude at the 'paint-ready' stage. Priming and painting are considered separate trades and are usually billed separately.
How is the billable square footage calculated?
Billable area is determined by the total surface area of all walls and ceilings to be covered, often without deductions for windows or doors to account for waste.
Is soundproofing an option?
Sound dampening can be achieved using specialized sound-attenuating drywall or resilient channels, though these materials increase material and labor costs.