Drywall

Drywall is the flat, smooth paneling that forms most interior walls and ceilings in modern homes. Whether you're patching a hole, finishing a basement, or dealing with water damage, working with drywall requires the right tools and technique for seamless results. From installation to texture matching, Angi helps you find local pros and practical guidance to keep your walls looking their best.
Drywall Service Articles and Advice
Lauren Bongard  •  Jul 15, 2026
Get to Know the Pros and Cons of Hanging Drywall Vertically
If you’re considering the pros and cons of hanging drywall vertically, most drywallers install it that way. Learn the best applications for this installation method.
C.E. Larusso  •  Jul 15, 2026
8 Signs of Water Damage in Drywall
Learn the top 8 signs of water damage in drywall so you can identify water damage early, prevent costly repairs, and protect your home from further issues.
Lauren Bongard  •  Jul 15, 2026
Sheetrock vs. Drywall: What’s the Difference?
The terms drywall and Sheetrock are often used interchangeably, but one is a brand and one is a specific product. Find out which one you need in this guide.
Haley Nothstein  •  Jul 10, 2026
How Much Does It Cost to Skim Coat Walls? [2026 Data]
Skim coating drywall is a great alternative to replacement, and is often more affordable. Use this guide to estimate the cost to skim coat walls in your home.
Kristin Luna  •  Jul 10, 2026
8 of the Most Common Drywall Problems and How to Solve Them
Drywall problems can be a source of great frustration. If you’re dealing with any of these common issues, we’ll help you solve them.
D.P. Taylor  •  Jul 10, 2026
When Should You Hire a Pro for Drywall Repair vs. DIY?
Should you repair your damaged drywall yourself or leave it to a professional? This guide breaks down the benefits to each and how to choose.
Dan Simms  •  Jul 9, 2026
Drywall Fire Ratings: Is It All Fire-Resistant? Here’s What to Know
All drywall is fire-resistant, but the fire rating tells you how resistant. Use this guide on drywall fire rating to make sure you use the right product.
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Jul 9, 2026
11 Must-Know DIY Drywall Repair Tips
Fixing up your drywall can make a big difference in your home. Unless you have a large hole or a damaged corner, drywall repair is usually straightforward. Learn the best drywall repair tips along with the tools and supplies you need.
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Common Drywall Service Questions

Yes, a fan can help drywall mud dry faster by improving air circulation and reducing humidity in the room. Drywall mud dries through evaporation, so increasing airflow speeds up this process. However, you should position the fan to blow across the room rather than directly on the wet mud. This helps prevent drying too quickly, which can cause cracking. You should also use a dehumidifier if high humidity is an issue.

You can put drywall mud over paint to even out the surface or entirely resurface it. Sand the surface with 280-grit sandpaper, vacuum the debris and dust with a shop vac, and clean it with a slightly damp cloth. Allow the surface to dry. Apply drywall primer, especially if you’re skim-coating an entire wall. Apply the right type of drywall mud over the surface and smooth it with a trowel. Allow the layer to cure fully, then sand it before applying another layer or painting it.

When sanding drywall mud, you’re going to create a very fine dust that may contain silica. Silica dust contains crystalline silica, which can cause long-term illnesses for people who inhale it in significant quantities. Wear a mask while sanding drywall. Then dampen a drywall sponge to wipe the dust off the drywall, helping to reduce the amount of dust that may become airborne.

You can paint over water-damaged drywall as long as it’s dry and there’s no active leak. However, painting over the area will not solve deeper problems like mold or water leaks. 

If you’re 100% positive that these two issues aren’t a concern, paint over the area with a water—or oil-based primer. This type of paint will ensure that it doesn’t simply seep into the spot.

You should start looking for a drywall installer by choosing a local company with positive online reviews and ratings with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Next, confirm that the professional is properly licensed using Angi’s contractor licensing tool, and ask the installer if they are fully insured. It’s a good idea to ask for recent customer references and call them to get their honest opinion about the contractor and their work. You can also ask the installer if they guarantee their work or provide a workmanship warranty.