Installing drywall on the ceiling can be challenging when working alone, but with a few minor adjustment to the working process, you can easily accomplish this task on your own. Follow these simple steps as you learn how to install drywall on the ceiling in your house.

1. Check if the area where you are going to install drywall is clear from electrical wires, ductwork, or protruding pipes. Install furring strips to the framing in order to create a flat, even surface for drywall installation around these obstacles.
2. To keep it easier mark the wall studs to indicate the locations of the ceiling joists for reference when installing drywall. Also mark the placement of light fixtures and electrical boxes.
3. To get some leverage and support for raising the drywall sheets to the ceiling when you’re working alone, build a T-brace. Use a 2 foot piece of 1 by 4 and nail it to a 2 by 4. It should be 1 foot higher than the length from the floor to the ceiling.
4. Start hanging drywall in the corner, where you can use a full sheet. Raise the first sheet to the ceiling so you can get an idea of the placement in relation to the joists.
5. If you have a friend, ask him to assist you, or alternatively use the T-brace that you have build in the step 3. Raise the first sheet of drywall to the ceiling and slide it snugly into the corner. Install drywall in the way that tapered edges of the sheet are facing the floor.
6. Screw in the drywall sheets permanently to the ceiling joists using screws. The heads of the screws you choose should come in contact with the paper, sinking in slightly without breaking through the paper.
7. Proceed to install drywall along the first wall, always make sure that the tapered edges abut one another and are facing down. The tapered edges are designed to make the taping, mudding and sanding process easier.
8. To enforce the stability of your ceiling, start the second row with a half sheet of drywall in order to stagger the seams.
9. Measure and mark the cut line at the vertical midpoint of the drywall sheet. Use a straightedge to help guide your utility knife as you cut. Tip the panel off of the floor or table at a slight angle, then push it down to break it in half. Use the utility knife to cut through the paper backing.
10. Install panels over vents or light fixtures loosely at first. Use a rotary drill to cut out a border for the fixture or vent, and then fully attach the board.
11. Complete installation of drywall on the entire ceiling of your house and only then proceed to install drywall on the walls.

In case you don’t want to install drywall alone, you can hire professional experts. In the video below see how our installers hang drywall on the ceiling on one of our custom home projects in Toronto.