Drywall Work
A drywall is a board used to form the interior walls of a structure and made from wood pulp, plastic or other material. It is used to create walls, ceilings, domes, arches, etc. to give a unique design to the interiors. Drywalls are popular among builders as it is easy and less time consuming to cut, install or repair drywalls. The increase in usage of drywalls has led to an increase in job opportunities for drywall work. Find below different drywall work profiles that can be taken up by candidates, aiming for a career in construction industry.
Job Scope
- Drywall Installer: Installers mount the plasterboards or gypsum boards to the walls or ceilings. They mark cuts on the walls, cut the boards into requisite size and fasten the cut piece into right position on the wall. They lather the surface to fasten the boards to the walls and affix the boards firmly as per the given blueprints.
- Drywall Framer: Framers inspect the wall and design the framework to install the plaster board. They install the studs to attach the board to the walls. They trim rough edges of boards. They cut the frames and provide spaces for windows, keyholes and electric vents, as per the given blueprint.
- Ceiling Tile Installers: They mount tiles, blocks, sheets of shock absorbers to the drywall. They improve the utility of the drywall. They beautify the wall as per the client's demands by affixing tiles by nailing, screwing or using adhesive and sealing the spaces between the tiles and walls.
- Drywall Finishers: Finishers are responsible to seal the joints and cover up the inconsistencies from the surface. They ensure the wall is smooth and free from any rough patches or holes. They prepare the sealing mixtures and spread it across walls. Further, they provide the last finish by using brushes and rollers.
- Drywall Contractor: Contractors are responsible to maintain a register of drywall workers and their expertise. They are forwarded a list of job vacancies for drywall workers by the builders. Based on this list, contractors appoint drywall installers, framers and finishers to different projects.
Work Requirements
To work as a drywall worker, one has to fulfill following requisites
- Must be 18 years of age or above
- Must possess GED Certificate or High School Diploma
- Must have completed apprenticeship or on job training and acquired the necessary knowledge and skills from seniors
- Must possess good hand and eye coordination, clear vision and flexibility to perform physical tasks
- Must possess the qualities of communication skills, problem solving skills, attention to detailing, organizational abilities
Work Environment
- Work Place: Work is performed at some construction or renovation site. Workers may work indoors or outdoors, depending upon the work requirements.
- Work Timings: Work timings are dependent upon the project requirements. They may have to work in regular shifts or rotational shifts but complete 45 hours per week.
- Work Hazards: Workers have to endure dirty, dusty, wet and noisy work conditions. Besides, they are vulnerable to injuries as they have to perform physically straining activities or use sharp metal instruments to do work. The physical activities of standing, stooping, bending or lifting often causes fatigue. Wearing masks, gloves and ear plugs is must for drywall workers.
Career Prospects
Opportunities for drywall workers are expected to grow in coming years with growth in construction business. Drywall work has few competitors as most workers prefer work that is less straining. Hence, job opportunities open up faster than other profiles. Experienced workers have better prospects at acquiring jobs. Being a part of construction industry, this profile is sensitive to economic slowdown. Workers face unemployment during recessions.
Drywall work is a rewarding opportunity for specialized construction workers. Aspirants can enjoy job opportunities, career growth and remuneration, all in one profile.
