Building a frame is the difficult part when drywalling a dome ceiling, but you can buy kits containing prefabricated, curved studs. Applying triangular strips of drywall to the studs is not as difficult as you might think. By following a few basic steps, you should be able to finish a dome with a smooth, attractive drywall interior.
Drywall Size
For smaller domes with tight curves, 1/4-inch flex gypsum drywall is best. You can use up to 1/2-inch gypsum for larger curves, but you have to spray water on the compression side of the panel. Soak the drywall strips one hour before you apply them to the dome frame. Spray about 30 ounces of water on a standard 4-by-8-foot panel of nonflex 1/4-inch drywall. Spray 35 ounces of water on a 3/8-inch panel and 45 ounces on a 1/2-inch panel. When you complete the installation, let the interior dry for one day before you finish the surface. You can cut the triangular pieces needed to cover the interior of most domes from standard 4-by-8-foot drywall sheets. If you have a larger dome, 54-inch-wide sheets are available.
Preparing to Install
Apply drywall over the bottom of the dome and use a drywall router or cut-out tool to cut around the circular base. Take measurements in identical intervals along the center of two adjoining, curving studs. Use these measurements to make a triangular pattern for strips of drywall that, fitted together, will cover the interior of the dome. If you have a small dome, one strip might reach from the base to the top of the dome. If you are working with a large dome, each triangle might require two pieces of drywall applied end to end.
Applying Drywall Strips
Use the pattern to cut the triangular strips. Flex the strips of drywall to make sure they will curve without cracking or breaking. Screw the strips into place side by side on the curved studs, working your way around the dome. The screws should be no more than six inches apart in the center of the studs.
Finishing the Interior
You might have a vertical ring at the base of your dome. Cover this ring with rectangular strips of drywall. Since these strips curve around the circular base, they should be 1/4-inch flex drywall, or larger drywall that has been soaked. When you're finished, apply drywall tape over the joints and cover with joint compound. Let the compound dry for one day, then sand until smooth.
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