Gypsum and Joints

To be verified whilst gypsum and joint work is underway

• The drywall must be pushed tight to the walls. Sometimes the layer has to “cheat” in order to dissimilate a bump or a dent.
• The drywall around openings such as doors must be screwed very securely. Otherwise, when the doors are being installed, the drywall will recede and the adjacent joints will open.
• Check that the green anti-humidity gypsum boards have been installed in the bathrooms, and the waterproof gypsum boards have been installed in the areas where ceramic is to be used.
• The gypsum boards installed in the garage must be fire resistant.
• Check the iron wedges. They must be straight, well supported and well nailed (preferably screwed) to a solid nailer.
• Three layers of joints are generally sufficient for a plasterer to achieve a quality finish.

To include in the contract

• Gypsum laying work
• Jointing work
• Some subcontractors offer a turnkey service which includes labor and materials. In this case, the materials to be included are generally as follows:
• Gypsum sheets (all types)
• Screws
• Joint cement
• Joint tape
• Iron wedges

Practical tips 

• Ensure that there is a suitable access area for the delivery truck.
• Before starting the work, check the nailer with the drywall contractor. Inform your carpenter of any corrective measures required, if necessary.
• Upon delivery of the materials, make sure that the drywall is distributed in the appropriate areas of the house where it is to be used, and taking into consideration its weight on the walls and floors.
• Inform the truck driver of any potential dangers, such as electric wires. 
• Check the delivery slip to make sure that you have received all of the articles, and in the quantities ordered.
• Check your windows prior to and following the delivery.
• Check the angles of the house at this stage.
• Have the wool insulation blown in the attic at the end of this stage.
• To ensure quality work within a reasonable timeframe, it is very important to maintain a temperature of less than 23º C and a fairly low humidity level. Plan to use heating.
• The joints are dependent on several factors : the walls must be straight and provide a full nailer, the drywall must be well cut, applied tight and well-screwed, the joints must be fairly large, the drying time in between each layer of joints must be sufficient and the resurfacing must be uniform and performed diligently.
• If the wall is very uneven, this must be corrected before the finishing can start. It is possible that the drywall has been badly applied.