* A drywall hammer has a textured face that creates indented lines in the paper without breaking the surface. The lines create tooth to help joint compound bond to the drywall
surface. The claw end of a drywall hammer is flattened to function as a pry bar to jack panels into place.
* A panel carrier supports drywall panels from below and includes a carrying handle so panels can be easily carried by one person.
* Drywall benches have broad bench tops so they can be used as step stools as well as sawhorses for holding panels to be cut. Most are adjustable for ideal access to upper
walls and ceilings.
* Drywall guns feature a special chuck for automatic depth control of the screw head. Self-feeding models automatically load drywall screws collated on plastic strips, saving
time. If you do not use self-feeding guns regularly, calibrating them can be tricky. Also, the cost-per-screw is much higher. They can be rented at most building or rental centers.
* Drywall stilts are a useful way to reach the ceiling and retain mobility. Use them only for finishing drywall and only after the room has been cleared of debris and drop cloths. Do
not use them when installing drywall panels—it is a very dangerous practice.
* Drywall clips are used to isolate corner joints from the movement of adjacent framing members. They also facilitate optimal thermal insulation of walls by reducing the number
of studs and backers needed.
* A drywall lifter is basically a one piece metal lever that slips underneath the panel at floor level. Stepping on the lift pedal causes the panel to rise about 1⁄2", which is the
recommended minimum gap between the floor and the bottom of the panel.
* A panel lift is a rented tool that allows you to lift drywall to a ceiling or high wall. It is stable and will hold the panel as long as necessary, making it an indispensable tool if you
will be working alone.
* A pair of T-braces or “dead men” that are 1" taller than the ceiling height can help hold drywall against the framing during ceiling installations. Cut a straight 2 × 4 so it’s 1⁄2"
shorter than the ceiling height, then fasten a 36"-long 2 × 4 to the end for the bracing arm.
* A drywall tape reel holds 500-ft.-long rolls of paper joint tape and clips to a belt for easy access. It includes a threaded slot for easy tear-off.
* A drywall hawk can be loaded with joint compound and toted around so you can take just as much as you need for each dimple or seam.
* Sanding systems can reduce airborne dust by up to 95%. Most systems are available with both pole and hand sanding attachments that connect to a wet/dry vacuum. Water
filters are also available for catching dust before it reaches the vacuum.
* Air compressors and spray guns with handheld hoppers are used to apply texture to walls and ceilings, and are available for rent. While they are relatively easy to use, get an
operator’s manual or lesson at the rental center, and then practice on a scrap of cardboard before attempting your project.
* A corner crimper attaches metal corner bead to outside corners without the use of fasteners. It’s especially useful for metal-framed walls where nails don’t grip.
