Understanding Why Drywall Installation is a Slow Process

Why Drywall Installation Takes Time: What You Need to Know for Your Calgary Home Renovation

When it comes to any Calgary home renovation, drywalling is one of those tasks that seems straightforward—but quickly proves to be more complex and time-consuming than expected. Unlike painting or flooring, drywall installation in Calgary requires multiple precise steps that each take time, care, and the right tools to execute properly.

In this blog, we’ll explain why drywalling can be a slow process, especially for homeowners trying to DIY, and what factors influence the timeline. If you're planning a renovation project—whether it's a basement suite, bathroom, or full home reno—this guide will help you set realistic expectations.

Preparing the Room

Before you can even begin installing drywall, the space needs to be fully prepped. This includes removing old materials like wallpaper, tile, or paneling, and addressing imperfections in the wall structure. Gaps, holes, and cracks need to be patched with joint compound, which must dry completely before the next steps.

Leveling walls and ceilings—a must for professional-looking results—adds another layer of complexity. This is especially important during Calgary kitchen renos or bathroom renovations in Calgary, where walls are often uneven due to past renovations or moisture issues.

Measuring and Cutting

Cutting drywall may look simple, but it demands precision. Every sheet needs to be measured and trimmed to fit around corners, outlets, and switches. For larger rooms or open-concept renovations, even a small miscalculation can create gaps or uneven seams, which will show through once paint is applied.

This is why many home renovation contractors in Calgary recommend hiring professionals for drywall work—especially for custom homes or larger renovations.

Installing and Taping

Lifting and securing drywall sheets—especially on ceilings—is physically demanding and often requires two people or specialized equipment. Once in place, seams must be taped and covered with joint compound (also called mud).

This process requires:

• 2–3 coats of compound

• Drying time between coats

• Careful sanding between applications

Any imperfections at this stage will affect the finished look, making patience and experience critical.

Sanding and Finishing

Sanding is where drywalling gets messy. You’ll need dust masks, drop cloths, and a steady hand. After each round of sanding, a new layer of mud may be needed to smooth out inconsistencies, followed by more drying and sanding.

The finishing coat must blend seamlessly into the surrounding surface to create that smooth, flawless finish you expect from a professional Calgary home renovation.

Drying Time

Perhaps the most underestimated factor is drying time. Humidity and temperature can slow drying significantly—especially during colder Calgary months or in unfinished basements. Rushing through this step can result in cracks, bubbles, or an uneven surface once painted.

For this reason, most experienced home renovation contractors in Calgary schedule ample buffer time for drywalling within a project timeline.

Conclusion

Drywalling is one of the most labor-intensive parts of any renovation. It requires precise prep, accurate cuts, proper installation, and patience during the drying and finishing phases. While it may be tempting to rush through or DIY the job, the truth is: great drywalling is what makes your walls look professionally finished.

If you’re planning a Calgary home renovation—whether it’s a basement development, kitchen upgrade, or full home refresh—consider leaving drywalling to the pros. A smooth, polished result adds long-term value and sets the tone for the rest of your renovation.

Need help with drywall or other renovation services in Calgary? Contact us today at info@lbprojects.ca for a free quote and expert advice.