Installing heavy sheets of drywall on a ceiling can be a Herculean task, even for two people. Cathedral or vaulted ceilings are even more challenging. Drywall lifts make the job fairly simple by hoisting the drywall to the ceiling and holding it in place while the hanger fastens it to the joists. Professionals buy their own drywall lifts, and they can be rented for occasional use. For someone working alone, a drywall lift is almost mandatory for hanging ceilings.
Function
Since a sheet of drywall weighs between 70 to 80 lbs., lifting it to a ceiling and holding it in place so it can be fastened to the joists is a difficult task. A drywall lift works by raising the drywall to the ceiling and securing it. The lift is wheeled and can be rolled into position, then locked in place while the drywall is raised and secured.
Types
All drywall lifts operate in the same basic manner. The sheet of drywall is positioned in the cradle holding it flat, then cranked or winched up to the ceiling. The more heavy duty lifts usually have a hydraulic crank mechanism, making for easier and smoother operation for the drywall hanger who might be installing dozens of sheets of drywall a day. Some drywall lifts are battery operated, making them almost effortless to use. The better lifts can also be angled, for hanging drywall on vaulted ceilings. Cheaper, more rudimentary lifts are hand cranked without hydraulic aid and may only raise the drywall horizontally. Drywall lifts can either be disassembled for storage, then assembled on the job for operation, or are constructed to easily fold into a compact size for transport and storage.
Considerations
Consider your needs when purchasing a drywall lift. Look for lightweight, welded steel construction. If the lift will be stored on a truck and transported from job to job, one that folds or disassembles into a compact size will be the best choice. For very large commercial jobs, the speed and ease with which the lift can be raised under load is an important feature. Smooth operation speeds up the job and reduces worker fatigue, and a battery operated hydraulic lift may be a wise investment. For occasional or one-time use, more rudimentary drywall lifts are perfectly adequate.
Time Frame
For a single project, compare the cost of renting for the duration of the job to the purchase price of a new lift to determine which makes more economic sense. The weekly rental cost may be less than the purchase price, and your decision will be influenced by how long you need it for. Bear in mind that a rental drywall lift will be a better constructed piece of machinery than a cheap lift. A lift will significantly speed up the job, especially for the solo drywall hanger. Without a lift, a hanger working alone must take the time to construct a brace and supports with two by fours for each sheet of drywall.
Expert Insight
Many professional drywall hangers find that they can hang drywall faster without a lift, as long as they have a helper. However, it takes a lot of experience and strength to be this proficient.
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