How to Drywall a Bulkhead

The word "bulkhead" is a maritime term that generally means a wall. It is also used in aviation terminology for the same reason. The term can also be found among contractors referring to an interior wall, often associated with a kitchen or bathroom. Therefore, drywalling a bulkhead means to hang drywall on an interior wall. This is a do-it-yourself project that any moderately handy homeowner can undertake and complete.

  • Measure the height and width of the bulkhead with a tape measure to determine how many drywall sheets you will need to cover the wall. Drywall sheets come in 4-by-8-foot panels

  • Cut drywall sheets down to size to cover the bulkhead as necessary. Cut the drywall panels using a utility knife to score each side and snap off the excess.

  • Place a stud finder against the bulkhead and mark the location of each stud behind it with a pencil.

  • Hold the first drywall sheet against the bulkhead and fasten it to the bulkhead with a screw gun driving drywall screws into the stud. Repeat as needed until the bulkhead is covered in drywall.

  • Tape the seams between each drywall sheet on the bulkhead by adhering drywall tape along the seam. Spread joint compound over the taped seams with a putty knife thereafter. Allow the compound to dry for about 24 hours.

  • Attach medium-grit sandpaper to an orbital sander and sand the joint compound to make it smooth and flush with the drywall sheets.

  • Apply a coat of interior primer using a roller and let the primer dry for at least three hours. Paint over the drywalled bulkhead with an interior paint after the primer is no longer tacky to the touch.

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