Get matched with top drywall pros in Audubon, IA

Mudding drywall is a DIY-friendly project, but patience and practice are required for perfection. If you’re working in a highly visible area and want the best possible finish, hiring a professional drywaller is worth the cost. Pros have the tools and know-how to ensure a smooth surface with fewer sanding sessions and less cleanup.

It’s less costly to drywall a fireplace than shiplapping it since material costs are higher for shiplap. However, if you’re DIYing the project, shiplap is less expensive since you won’t have to pay for labor. With drywall, getting a smooth finish is difficult unless you’re a pro. Shiplap is ideal for an accent wall or unique space, such as around a fireplace, since it adds texture and gives off a cozy vibe.

Which style of corner bead you choose—whether metal or paper-faced—depends on your preference and if you’re comfortable using metal-cutting tools and a hammer. Metal bead offers superior strength and durability but its installation is slightly more involved. We’d say for most cases, it’s better to use metal bead but if you’re not comfortable working with metal, paper-faced bead will work just fine. 

Drywall installation costs around $2,000 on average, but some projects cost as low as $400, while larger or more complicated installations can cost $6,000 or more. The most important cost factor is the size of the room or area, as many contractors charge on a per-square-foot basis. You should also consider the complexity of the installation. If you have large, flat walls with few wall openings, you’ll pay less than if you have multiple windows and doors to cut around, corners, or curved walls.