What To Expect: Selecting and Installation of Drywall

Introduction

When building a new home, one of the most important phases is the selecting and installation of drywall. This step significantly shapes the look and feel of your interior spaces. At Kimball Construction, we walk homeowners through each detail, making sure every decision reflects your preferences and lifestyle. Understanding what to expect ensures fewer surprises and more confidence throughout the build.

What options are available with drywall?

Drywall comes in several types tailored to specific needs. Standard drywall suits most interior spaces, while moisture- and fire-resistant varieties work better in bathrooms and utility areas. Soundproofing drywall is also available for added comfort in bedrooms or home offices.

You can also choose different wall textures like orange peel, knockdown, or smooth, each offering a unique aesthetic. Additionally, corner styles such as square or bullnose provide subtle design variation.

Drywall finishes range from Level 1 (basic) to Level 7 (premium). Levels 3 and 4 are most common in new homes and provide a clean, smooth surface. Higher-end finishes, like Levels 5 through 7, are ideal for well-lit areas or glossy paint and involve more labor and cost. Kimball Construction provides samples and guides you through each selection to ensure it complements your interior vision.

When is drywall installed?

Drywall installation typically happens after framing, plumbing, and electrical rough-ins are complete and inspected. At this stage, the home begins to look more like the finished product.

Once the insulation is in place and windows and exterior doors are installed, the house becomes a sealed environment. This condition is ideal for drywall installation because it reduces moisture problems and ensures proper curing.

How is the drywall finish selected?

Kimball Construction presents all drywall finish selections to homeowners through BuilderTrend, our streamlined project management tool. There, you can review, approve, or request changes.

Rather than selecting a finish level blindly, you’ll be guided based on your home’s design, lighting, and intended paint type. Our team explains the pros and cons of each finish level and helps match your selections to your budget and expectations. By offering expert recommendations and real samples, we ensure your final decision aligns with your overall vision for the home.

How is drywall installed?

Drywall installation is a detailed process. First, technicians measure and cut sheets to fit the wall and ceiling frames. They fasten these sheets using screws, ensuring alignment and stability.

Next, joints between the panels are taped and covered with joint compound. Several coats are applied, each followed by drying and sanding. This step creates a smooth surface in preparation for the final aesthetic finish.

After the surface is prepared, texture is applied if chosen. Common textures include orange peel, knockdown, or skip trowel, each offering a distinct visual effect and helping to hide minor surface imperfections.

Texturing is followed by quality checks to confirm that the finish meets the homeowner’s expectations and the standards set by Kimball Construction.

Who installs drywall?

Kimball Construction partners with skilled and licensed drywall professionals who specialize in new construction homes. These contractors understand the importance of precision, cleanliness, and timing. Their experience ensures every panel is installed correctly, minimizing future issues such as cracking or uneven textures.

How long does drywall installation take to install?

In a standard-sized new construction home, drywall installation typically takes about two to three weeks. This timeline can vary based on weather, home size, and finish level.

The process includes hanging the drywall, taping and mudding seams, sanding, and performing quality inspections. Once drywall is installed and inspected, painting and interior finishes can begin, moving your project one step closer to completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between drywall and plaster?

Both drywall and plaster are installed over panels, but they differ in how they are applied and cured. Drywall uses joint compound or “mud” that dries through air exposure, while plaster hardens through a chemical reaction. Drywall is generally easier to install, requires less labor, and is more cost-effective for most homeowners. Plaster, though more labor-intensive, offers a harder, more durable finish and can often be installed in less overall time due to its faster curing process. However, this high-end option typically comes with greater material and labor costs.

Why is drywall installation time so hard to predict?

Drying time during drywall installation is affected by several environmental factors, including weather conditions, humidity levels, indoor temperature, and airflow through the building. Because these elements can change unexpectedly and vary from one site to another, it’s difficult to give an exact duration for drying phases. This variability means that drywall installation schedules must remain flexible to ensure proper curing and long-term quality.

Can drywall drying time be sped up?

Yes, drying time can be improved using a few methods. Dehumidifiers help reduce moisture in the air, which speeds up the drying process. Adding fans increases air circulation, while portable heaters can raise room temperature to encourage faster evaporation. However, all equipment must be used carefully to maintain consistent conditions and avoid over-drying or cracking.

What happens if drywall is damaged during construction?

Kimball Construction inspects and addresses any drywall damage before final walkthroughs. Damaged areas are repaired or replaced to ensure a flawless finish.

Can I choose a different drywall finish for different rooms?

Absolutely. Some homeowners choose a higher finish in main living areas and a standard finish in utility rooms or closets. We support room-by-room customization. However, there may be additional charges for this.

Is drywall installation messy?

Yes, drywall sanding can create dust. However, our crews use dust control methods and clean up thoroughly before moving to the next phase.

How do I know what drywall type I need?

Our team will explain each type and recommend the best options based on room use, moisture levels, and code requirements.

What if I change my mind about a finish after approving it?

If construction hasn’t reached that phase yet, changes can often be made in BuilderTrend. However, late changes may affect timelines or budgets.

Does drywall contribute to home insulation?

While not a primary insulator, drywall adds a layer of thermal and sound resistance. Combined with proper insulation, it contributes to a more efficient home.

Conclusion

The selecting and installation of drywall is a key phase in your home-building journey. At Kimball Construction, we ensure the process is smooth, transparent, and tailored to your preferences. From drywall types to finishes, we guide you step-by-step, always keeping your vision in focus.

To learn more about what comes next after drywall, visit our Home Building Process page.