What drywall work can I do myself?

Most basic drywall work is well within the DIY wheelhouse for Ottawa homeowners, including hanging sheets, taping, mudding, and finishing. You can legally handle these tasks yourself without permits, and with proper preparation and patience, achieve professional-looking results.

Hanging drywall sheets is the most straightforward part of the process. You'll need basic tools like a drywall saw, utility knife, T-square, and drill with screwdriver bits. For standard 1/2-inch drywall on 16-inch centers (common in Ottawa homes), plan on 6-8 screws per stud for walls and 8-10 for ceilings. The key is measuring accurately and making clean cuts - Ottawa's older homes often have settling that creates slightly out-of-square rooms, so expect some custom fitting.

Taping and mudding requires more skill but is absolutely doable with practice. You'll apply joint tape over seams, then build up thin layers of joint compound over 3-4 coats, sanding between applications. The secret is thin, even coats rather than trying to fill everything at once. Ottawa's dry winter air actually helps with drying time, but run a humidifier to prevent cracking as the mud dries too quickly.

Texturing and priming complete the DIY scope. You can apply basic textures like orange peel or knockdown, though smooth finishes show imperfections more readily. Always prime before painting - this is especially important in Ottawa homes where temperature swings can cause paint adhesion issues.

When to call professionals: Any work involving structural changes, electrical boxes, or plumbing integration requires licensed trades. If you're opening walls in heritage Ottawa homes (common in the Glebe or Centretown), you may encounter knob-and-tube wiring or asbestos - stop work and consult professionals. Ceiling work in rooms over 10x12 feet becomes challenging for one person, and cathedral ceilings or stairwells often require scaffolding better left to pros.

Safety considerations include wearing dust masks (especially important in older Ottawa homes), ensuring proper ventilation, and using appropriate ladders or scaffolding. Joint compound dust can be particularly problematic for respiratory health.

Next steps: Start with a small area like a closet to practice your technique. Budget $1-2 per square foot for materials, and plan on 2-3 weekends for a typical 12x12 room including drying time between coats.