Best drywall pros near Bohemia, NY

Choose a drill bit that is the size of the screws of the anchors you will use. You aren’t drilling through metal or concrete—hopefully—so any standard twist, wooden or all-purpose drill bit will work fine. It’s also important to have a screwdriver capable of drilling through the drywall and into the stud. The good news is most available drills, even the older ones, can do this with no issue.

The tool you use to sand plaster will depend on the size of the project. If you’re just working on a small section of your wall to get rid of an uneven spot on the surface, hand-sanding might work. However, for larger projects, a drywall sander can make a huge difference when it comes to both time and elbow grease—and an orbital sander can help for detailed areas such as around ceiling fans.

All plaster walls will crack over time due to normal house settling and expansion and contraction from temperature and moisture changes. Small, thin hairline cracks are generally not serious and are mostly a cosmetic issue. However, larger or more significant cracks can indicate structural problems.

Here's how to tell the difference:

• Cosmetic Cracks: Cracks that are 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) or thinner are typically cosmetic.

• Structural Cracks: Cracks wider than 0.5 cm, excessive or deep cracks, multiple cracks in the same area, or cracks that span around corners can signify a structural or foundation issue. Cracks along the joints where walls meet the ceiling also warrant attention.

For cracks wider than 0.5 cm, structural repair is needed. If a crack is 2.5 cm (1 inch) or wider, or if you notice any signs of a structural problem, it is best to contact a plaster repair professional to assess the damage.

A nail in drywall cannot hold very much—usually only a few pounds. A nail in a stud can add support and hold around 20 pounds. If you are trying to hang something heavier, get some help from drywall anchors—toggle bolts are very strong and able to withstand more weight.