Interior Finishing & Drywall Flashcards

What is the standard thickness of drywall used for interior walls in residential construction?

Answer: 1/2 inch

1/2-inch drywall is the standard thickness for interior walls in most residential construction applications.

When installing drywall on ceilings, what is the maximum recommended screw spacing in the field?

Answer: 12 inches

Ceiling drywall screws should be spaced no more than 12 inches apart in the field to prevent sagging over time.

What type of drywall is specifically designed for use in high-moisture areas such as bathrooms?

Answer: Moisture-resistant drywall (green board)

Moisture-resistant drywall, commonly called green board, is manufactured to resist moisture damage in high-humidity environments.

What is the primary purpose of Type X (fire-rated) drywall?

Answer: To provide fire resistance in walls and ceilings

Type X drywall contains glass fibers in its gypsum core that slow combustion and provide code-required fire-resistance ratings.

What is the correct technique for cutting drywall with a utility knife?

Answer: Score the face paper, snap the panel, then cut the back paper

The score-and-snap method—scoring the face, snapping at the score, then slicing the back paper—is the standard technique requiring no power tools.

What is the standard stud spacing used for most interior drywall installations?

Answer: 16 inches on center

Studs spaced 16 inches on center is the standard framing interval that properly supports 1/2-inch drywall panels.

Which orientation should drywall sheets be hung on walls for maximum structural strength?

Answer: Horizontally, with the long edge perpendicular to studs

Horizontal installation crosses more studs with each panel, reduces vertical seams, and produces a stronger, more rigid wall assembly.