Hanging Ceiling Drywall

What does it cost to hang ceiling drywall? 

When calculating the cost of hanging a drywall ceilings, several factors need to be considered. Cost of materials, labor, supplies, hanging equipment allowance, old drywall removal (if any), debris disposal (dump fee).

The following "estimate" is based on a 200 square foot ceiling, such as in a basement remodel.  It includes both a low and high end estimate.

Materials:  $134-$182

Paper faced 1/2" thick gypsum board. 4' x 8' sheets. Quantity includes typical waste overage, material for repair and local delivery. This is for non-discounted retail pricing.

Basic ceiling drywall hanging labor:  $312-$378

This average cost is based on favorable site conditions. For example, a basement build-out in which the walls and ceilings have not been finished yet. 

A. Layout, fabricate and fit drywall sheets. Up to 1 cutout per 100 SF.

B. Secure the drywall to framing as manufacturer specifies. This includes and involves planning, preparation of the area to be drywalled, as well as protection of the area from typical job stress, setup and cleanup.

Supplies:  $9-$10

Typical supplies for drywall installation will include seam tape, fasteners, outside corner beads and topping compound.

Drywall Hanging Equipment Allowance:  $32-$44

In any estimate for contractor related work, equipment allowance is factored in. Your contractor has specialty equipment that needs to be purchased, rented and kept in good working order. This equipment adds to a better quality job and efficiency. Job related costs for specialty equipment include tools such as manual drywall hoist, drywall cutting and fabrication tools, auto loading drywall screw gun and, if necessary, daily rental.

Drywall Removal and Disposal:  $130-$152

If necessary, removal involves breaking drywall into sections and removing it from the framing. Disposing of material in a responsible way. This usually includes the dump fee. Disposal involves the cost to load and haul away old materials, installation waste and related debris.

Total Cost for Project  $616-$766 or $3.08-$3.83/sq. ft