How to Install Wallboard on Cinder Blocks

An important part of finishing a basement or converting a garage into living space is attaching wallboard, more commonly known as drywall, to the cinder-block walls. Wallboard provides a level, finished look compared with painted cinder block. Painting cinder block requires a lot preparation and work to achieve the same smooth surface, making wallboard installation an easier, more economical choice.

Things You'll Need

• Chalk line
• Drill
• Furring strips
• Hammer-set anchors
• Hardened steel hammer
• Tape measure
• Screw gun
• Drywall screws
• Joint setting compound
• Self-stick fiberglass tape

Instructions

1. Stretch a chalk line from an upper corner of the wall to a lower corner of the wall. Grasp the chalk line, lift it and snap it so it hits the wall. Repeat in the opposite corner so an X is marked on the wall. The point at which the lines intersect is the center of the wall.

2. Drill holes, slightly smaller than the anchors, every 24 inches along the length of a furring strip, which is a thin piece of wood attached to the cinder block to provide a base to screw in drywall.

3. Place a furring strip vertically, directly over the X.

4. Place a hammer-set anchor into the hole in the furring strip. A hammer-set anchor is a fastener used to stabilize furring strips.

5. Pound the anchor through the furring strip into the cinder block, using a hardened steel hammer. Do not use a cast-iron hammer because it will chip and break.

6. Measure 16 inches from the center of the furring strip, using a tape measure, and mark the wall.

7. Place the next furring strip over the mark and secure in place with the anchors. Continue until all walls are covered with furring strips every 16 inches.

8. Place the wallboard up against the furring strips 1 inch off the floor.

9. Screw drywall screws through the wallboard into the furring strips, using a screw gun or drill.

10. Apply joint compound to the seams and cover with self-stick fiberglass mesh tape, using a flexible putty knife.

11. Apply a thin coat of joint compound over the tape, feathering it out at the edges. Allow the joint compound to set and dry.

12. Sand the joint compound with fine-grade sandpaper to smooth.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear safety glasses and gloves while working to avoid injury.

References

• "Masonry;" Time Life Editors; 1977
• "Walls and Ceilings;" Time Life Editors; 1982