Drywall Basement Ceilings

Costs
Durability
History
Maintenance

Pictures
Popular Basements Topics
Pros and Cons
Questions and Answers

References
Related Articles

Finishing your ceiling in drywall tends to offer a warmer and more professional appearance than the more commercial-looking suspended ceilings. Here is some more information to help you decide if it’s the right look and feel for your basement.

Costs

One of the most cost-effective basement ceiling options, drywall materials cost $0.25 to $0.65 per square foot, with installation ringing in at an additional $0.85 to $1.50 per square foot. But if you tackle the job yourself, you could pay a meager $150 to $250, depending on the size of the job. For more accurate pricing information, get a couple cost estimates for your project.

Pictures

Finished Basement

Pros

Drywall ceilings give basements a more finished look overall.

Create a better flow with the rest of your home than other ceiling options.

Drywall requires little space to install, so it’s great for low ceilings.

Cons

Drywalling the ceiling involves installed framing for backing.

Duct work needs to be box-framed in and service panels must be accounted for to access plumbing valves, etc.

Running wire and cables on the main floor through the basement is time-consuming and expensive.

Durability

Drywall is a durable choice when it comes to covering a basement ceiling. As long as it doesn’t need to be taken down to fix plumbing or wiring issues, it should last the lifetime of your home.

Maintenance

After installation, drywall is virtually maintenance-free. It may need to be painted from time to time, but that would be the usual extent of the upkeep.

Common Questions and Answers

Is it possible to install a basement ceiling that has both drywall and ceiling tiles?

Yes, not only is it possible, but it’s a good option if you want to easily access your plumbing, wiring, etc. Just put the suspended ceiling where all of those things are and drywall for the rest of the basement.

How many layers of drywall are necessary to install?

Drywall comes in sheets of varying thickness, but ceilings are generally just one sheet of 1/2-inch thick drywall and no more.

History

When the US Gypsum Company (USG) first invented drywall in 1916, it was called “Sackett Board.” However, it wasn’t until nearly 25 years later that builders started using the product in mass quantities for commercial and residential properties.