Abbotsford Drywall and Steel Stud Framing

Feb 19, 2024

Abbotsford Drywall Companies on Cost Estimation for Drywall Projects

The drywall industry keeps growing every year. In 2022, 20,046 businesses install drywall and insulation in the United States, which is 2.4% more than the previous year. Over the past five years, from 2017 to 2022, the number of these businesses in the US increased by an average of 2.4% each year.


Putting up or fixing drywall is one of the easiest tasks for contractors in any construction project. However, figuring out the drywall installation cost might be tricky. Since each job is different and costs are usually based on measurements, giving each customer a personalized estimate or bid is important.


In this guide, we'll talk about how
Abbotsford drywall companies determine the price for drywall projects and what they consider when estimating the costs.

Factors That Influence the Cost of Commercial Drywall Projects


Project Size and Complexity

Bigger and more complicated projects need more time and resources, leading to higher costs.


Material Quality

Choosing cheaper but lower-quality materials might save money initially, but they can lead to more maintenance work and a shorter lifespan. Investing in quality materials may cost more upfront but can save on maintenance and replacement costs in the long run.


Additional Features

Special features like soundproofing or fire resistance can increase the overall project cost.


Contractor Experience and Expertise

The contractor's and their team's skills and know-how are crucial in determining the final cost. Mistakes and delays during construction can result in higher costs for both time and materials.


Varieties of Drywall

Drywall comes in different types and prices. The 1/4” thick drywall is the most affordable, costing $0.24 to $0.32 per sq. ft.


As you move up in thickness to 3/8, 1/2, and 5/8”, the price increases gradually, ranging from $0.27 to $0.41.


For moisture and fire-resistant drywall, prices start at $0.40 and go up. The priciest type is soundproof drywall, which costs $0.95 to $2.25 per sq. ft., excluding labor and markup.


Estimating Drywall Sheets

"How do I figure out how many drywall sheets I need?" Here's a simple way to calculate it:


  • If you use 4 x 8 sheets, divide the square footage by 32.
  • If you're using 4 x 12 sheets, divide the total square footage by 48.


This number tells you how many full sheets you need. Regarding pricing, it's smart to include the cost of drywall sheets plus an extra 10% for waste and odd cuts. 


The same method works for ceiling drywall sheets.


Different Drywall Finishes

There are six levels of drywall finishes (including level 0), and clients can choose the one that suits them best.


Here are the levels:

LEVEL 0 This is the basic level where drywall is hung on the wall with joints and fasteners exposed.
LEVEL 1 Basic finishing involves hanging drywall like in level 0. However, the seams are covered with tape, and joints with joint compound.
LEVEL 2 The entire wall is covered with compounds. This is often done to prepare for tiling.
LEVEL 3 Panels get a second layer of compound to ensure a smooth finish.
LEVEL 4 Panels receive three compound layers, getting ready for painting or light texture.
LEVEL 5 This is the highest level. Panels get three layers plus a skim coat.

Include all these factors in your estimate for a drywall job. You can add up these extra costs to your estimate:

  • Transportation costs (to and from the job site)
  • Site preparation
  • Non-standard features like curves or arches
  • Debris removal

Measuring with Square Footage

When it comes to drywall projects, we measure walls by square feet. Take careful measurements of all the surfaces that need drywall service.


The typical charges for drywall service range from about $0.24 to $0.70 per square foot, excluding the labour markup. Contractors usually charge between $1.50 and $3.00 per square foot for drywall installation.


Drywall pieces are commonly 4×8’ (32 sq. ft.) or 4×12’ (48 sq. ft.), but this can vary. To estimate the number of sheets needed, divide the total square footage of the drywalls and ceilings requiring drywall.


Partner with a Reliable Drywall & Steel Stud Company


The right company brings expertise, efficiency, and a commitment to quality, ensuring your project stands the test of time. From accurate cost estimations to installations, Abbotsford Drywall & Steel Stud Framing paves the way for a successful outcome. 


So, as you start your next construction project consider the value that Abbotsford drywall companies can bring to the table. Contact us for a free quote.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Affects the Total Drywall Costs?

    • The overall cost is influenced by the type of drywall you choose, such as three-eighths, half an inch, or five-eighths.
    • The cost increases when adding special archways to your drywall. Including the green board on your bathroom walls. 
    • The price goes up with heavy sheets of Class X drywall.

    The total cost varies based on whether your entire project requires 4×8 sheets or if some rooms need 10′, 12′, 14′, or 16′ panels.


  • How To Set Prices for Drywall Projects?

    When pricing drywall installation, contractors have two options: hourly or flat rates.

    If a drywall contractor works on significant projects with potential revisions, choosing an hourly rate could be a sensible decision. 


    On the other hand, for drywall projects that don't foresee many changes and can be estimated quickly by the general contractor, using a flat-rate pricing method might be more suitable.


  • How Much to Charge for Hanging and Finishing Drywall?

    A contractor can charge between $1.50 and $3 per square foot for installing drywall. Depending on how complicated the project is and the contractor's skill level, they can choose a pricing option within the range of $1.50 to $3 per square foot.


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