When it comes to installing drywall in a bathroom, many homeowners have questions that don’t often arise with other rooms. One of the most common queries is: “How long does it take to drywall a bathroom?” The time commitment can vary based on several factors, including the bathroom’s size, your skill level, and the type of drywall you’re using. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the entire drywall process for a bathroom and provide insight into how long it typically takes from start to finish.
Drywalling a bathroom can be different from drywalling in other rooms due to the high moisture content in bathrooms, so you may need special materials. On average, expect the entire process— from hanging the drywall to painting— to take about four to five days. Let’s dive deeper into this process and answer all the related questions you might have.
Is It Worth It to Drywall Your Bathroom?
Absolutely! If you’ve already hung drywall in other rooms, it makes sense to do the same in the bathroom for consistency and a polished look. Drywall is affordable, easy to install, and creates a smooth, clean surface that can be painted to suit any aesthetic. However, because bathrooms are prone to moisture, you’ll need to choose the right type of drywall.
Green drywall, which is mold-resistant, is the top choice for bathrooms. Bathrooms accumulate more moisture than other rooms, and regular drywall is likely to deteriorate over time. Green drywall is slightly more expensive—around 15-20% higher in cost than regular drywall—but the benefits, like mold resistance and longevity, make it worth the investment. For maximum protection, consider using a mold-resistant joint compound as well.
How Long Does It Take to Drywall a Bathroom? A Detailed Explanation
Let’s break down the time it takes to drywall a bathroom from start to finish. Drywalling includes both hanging and installing. Hanging refers to placing the drywall sheets on the wall and securing them with screws while installing including mudding, taping, sanding, and finishing with paint. Here’s a realistic breakdown of the time involved.
Step 1: Hanging the Drywall
On average, hanging drywall on both the ceiling and walls of a bathroom will take around 4-5 hours if two people are working together. The process involves:
- Measuring the wall and ceiling dimensions.
- Cutting drywall sheets to fit.
- Lifting the drywall and securing it to the studs using screws.
Pro Tip: If you’re working solo, this step may take longer, especially if the drywall sheets are large or cumbersome. You can make the job easier by using a drywall lift or enlisting a helper.
Step 2: Taping and Sealing
Once the drywall is hung, the next step is to apply mesh tape to the seams and seal the gaps between the drywall and the floor. This step will take about 2.5-3 hours. It’s important to use mesh tape for added strength and to cover any seams, as these can become weak points over time, especially in a moist environment like a bathroom.
Step 3: Applying the First Coat of Joint Compound
On day two, you’ll apply the first coat of joint compound (commonly known as mud) to the seams. This step should take around 2-2.5 hours, depending on the size of your bathroom. After applying the compound, you’ll need to allow it to dry for at least 16 hours.
Step 4: Sanding and Applying the Second Coat
Once the first coat of joint compound has dried, you’ll lightly sand the mudded areas to smooth out imperfections. After sanding, apply a second coat of joint compound. This step also takes about 2-2.5 hours. Let the second coat dry for 16-20 hours before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Sanding and Touch-Ups
On the fourth day, it’s time to sand the second coat and check for any imperfections that need touching up. Sanding takes about 2 hours, and once done, you should carefully examine the drywall surface for any flaws. Fixing these touch-ups ensures a smooth, even surface when painting.
After sanding, you’ll apply a coat of primer to seal the drywall and prepare it for paint. Priming takes about 2.5-3 hours, and you’ll need to let it dry for another 3 hours.
Step 6: Painting
Once all the sanding and priming are complete, it’s time for the final stage—painting! If you’ve followed all the previous steps carefully, painting will be the fun part. Expect it to take around 3.5-4 hours to paint a standard bathroom, and allow it to dry for about 4 hours. If you feel a second coat is necessary (though it’s often not), add another 16 hours of drying time.
Total Time:
To summarize, here’s a rough timeline for how long it takes to drywall a bathroom:
| Day 1 | Hanging drywall (4-5 hours) + Taping and sealing (2.5-3 hours) |
| Day 2 | First coat of joint compound (2-2.5 hours) + 16 hours drying time |
| Day 3 | Sanding + second coat (2-2.5 hours) + 16-20 hours drying time |
| Day 4 | Sanding, touch-ups, priming (5 hours total) + 3 hours drying time |
| Day 5 | Painting (3.5-4 hours) + 4 hours drying time |
In total, expect to spend 4-5 days on the entire project. If you’re inexperienced, it might take a little longer, especially if you need additional time for learning and adjustments.
Should You Hire a Professional to Drywall Your Bathroom?
A common question homeowners ask is whether they should hire a professional to drywall their bathroom. The answer depends largely on your level of experience.
If you’ve installed drywall before in other parts of your home and are comfortable with the process, then you might be able to tackle your bathroom yourself. Drywall installation isn’t the most complicated home improvement task, but it does require precision—especially when mudding and sanding—to achieve a professional finish.
However, if this is your first time working with drywall, I would recommend hiring a pro. Bathrooms have extra considerations due to moisture, and ensuring that the drywall is properly sealed and finished is key to avoiding long-term issues like mold or water damage.
Pro Tip: If you decide to DIY, make sure you follow a detailed guide and take your time. Rushing through the process can result in uneven seams, bumps, and visible imperfections.
Can You Use Your Bathroom While Drywall Is Being Installed?
During the installation process, it’s best to avoid using the bathroom, especially for activities that generate moisture—like taking a shower. Moisture can negatively affect the drywall and joint compound, weakening the bond and causing issues like peeling or uneven surfaces.
While it might be inconvenient, especially if it’s your only bathroom, limiting bathroom use to essential tasks (without using water) is a good idea. If possible, avoid using the bathroom entirely until the drywall is fully installed and painted.
Drywall Types for Bathrooms: What You Should Know
Bathrooms are humid environments, so it’s important to choose the right drywall to ensure longevity and prevent mold or mildew growth. Standard drywall, also known as regular drywall or whiteboard, is not suitable for bathrooms due to its lack of moisture resistance.
Instead, opt for moisture-resistant drywall, often referred to as green board or purple board. These types of drywall are designed specifically for high-moisture environments like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements. They contain special materials that help resist moisture, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Greenboard is the most popular choice for bathrooms, and while it is slightly more expensive than regular drywall, the long-term protection it provides makes it a worthwhile investment. Additionally, using a mold-resistant joint compound when sealing the seams adds an extra layer of protection.
Conclusion: How Long Does It Take to Drywall a Bathroom?
To sum up, drywalling in a bathroom typically takes between four to five days, factoring in all stages—hanging the drywall, taping, mudding, sanding, priming, and painting. The exact timeline depends on the bathroom size, the type of drywall used, and whether you’re working alone or with a helper.
By choosing the right materials—such as moisture-resistant drywall and joint compound—and following the proper steps, you can achieve a professional-quality result in your bathroom. While this project is entirely doable for the average DIY enthusiast, hiring a professional is always an option if you want to ensure a flawless finish.
Remember, taking your time and paying attention to detail is key to success. So, when asking, “How long does it take to drywall a bathroom?” the answer lies in planning, preparation, and the time you allocate to each stage of the process. Good luck with your project!