In this blog, you will learn how to estimate the Labor cost to hang and finish drywall ceilings for your projects. So, if you were searching for this query, then you are in the right place for getting answers! First, you need to understand one thing the cost depends on several factors. Those factors combine to decide what will be the overall expense required. The most important ones are:
- Room size
- Ceiling height
- Complexity of the work
- Finish level desired
If you are an ordinary or a newbie contractor in this field. We recommend you outsource a cost-estimating company for your drywall projects. If you want to grow your business in this competitive industry, there is no margin of error in the estimate. However, the labor cost to hang and finish a drywall ceiling covers a huge amount of your budget! Do you want to derail your budget depending on your instincts? No! right? So why not get professional help to secure your overall funds and finish the project on time?
But, if you want to get rough estimates on your own, then let’s have a look at all those factors that influence the labor cost of the drywall ceiling.
IF YOU ARE PLANNING A RENOVATION AND NEED TO KNOW HOW MUCH IT WILL COST TO HANG AND FINISH A DRYWALL CEILING? READ OUR ARTICLE AND SAVE YOUR BUDGET FOR YOUR NEXT PROJECTS!
Step-by-Step Guide to Estimate Labor Cost to Hang and Finish Drywall Ceiling
Understand the Basic Costs
Typically, the cost estimators charge between $1.50 and $3.50. These professionals usually charge per square foot for hanging drywall and up to $4.00 or more for finishing work. In the professional talk, it is also called taping and mudding.
If you consider per hourly rate, then the labor cost to hang and finish a drywall ceiling can range from $40 to $50 or more depending on the requirement.
Measure the Ceiling Size Accurately
The next step is to measure the length and width of the room to get the total square footage. Do you want to know what is the labor cost to hang and finish a drywall ceiling for 2,000 sq. ft.? The cost of 200 square foot ranges from $4,500 to $8,000 in this year.
It is a simple formula, the more the sq. ft, the more the labor cost will be!
Height and Complexity
If the ceilings are up to 12 feet, they can be handled with ladders, but the ceilings more than 12 feet need lifts or scaffolding, which increases costs. Similarly, if the project is complex, then the overall cost will be higher. More corners for fixtures will increase the labor cost because it adds complexity to the design and requires skilled workers. Remember, moving electrical wiring or plumbing, also raises the cost.
Choose the Right Finish Level
Do you know there are six levels of drywall finishes? Let us show you!
Level 0
It is unfinished drywall with no extra work and ranges between $0.70 and $0.95 per square foot.
Level 1
The drywall is just taped and mudded, and it will cost you between $0.95 and $1.75 per square foot.
Level 2
- The drywall is taped, mudded, and minimal sanding.
- The cost ranges between $1 to $2 per square foot.
Level 3
- The drywall is fully sanded and best for heavy textures!
- Costs around $1.25 – $2.99 per square foot.
Level 4
- In level 4, the drywall is sanded for painting purposes and smoothed.
- The cost is between $1.89 – $3.78 per square foot.
Level 5
- This is the highest and finest level for high-end finishes.
- The cost is around $2.23 – $4.22 per square foot.
Do not forget Additional Costs
- Moisture-resistant panels, joint tape, compound, and screws will add to the material costs.
- If you need to remove the old drywall and install a new one, then more cost will be added. Maybe $0.30 to $1 per square foot.
Calculate Total Costs
- Multiply the total square footage by the labor cost per square foot for the desired finish level.
- Add any additional costs for high ceilings, complex layouts, and prep work.
Let’s consider a Scenario!
For a 300 square-foot ceiling with a Level 4 finish
Labor: 300 sq. ft. x $1.25 (low end) = $375
Material: Assume $1.00 per sq. ft. = $300
Prep and Disposal: 300 sq. ft. x $0.50 = $150
Total Estimated Cost= $825
Do follow these steps to get the right rough estimates of labor cost to hang and finish a drywall ceiling.
NOW, CAN YOU START YOUR DRYWALL CEILING PROJECT EASILY? UNDERSTANDING THE COSTS INVOLVED IS JUST THE BEGINNING. CONTACT LOCAL PROFESSIONALS TO GET PRECISE QUOTES AND SAVE MONEY!
Conclusion
Follow the steps mentioned in the article to have a rough idea about the costs of hanging and finishing a drywall ceiling. If you are successful in following the steps right, the output will be the exact amount you need to finish the ceiling project. For more precise results, you can take help from online calculators. Well, the best option is to hire professional Drywall Estimating Services for your projects. They help to quantify the right quantities and estimate spot-on!