Drywall must be removed when remodeling a room.
Most remodeling projects require the removal of drywall during demolition. Drywall, also known as gypsum board, is constructed of gypsum sandwiched between two sheets of paper. It is most commonly sold in 4-foot by 8-foot sheets and attached to wall studs with drywall screws. Removal of drywall during demolition can get very dusty, so wearing eye protection and a respirator is recommended.
Locate Studs
The first step in drywall removal is locating the studs. An electronic stud finder is helpful, but some are not accurate or pick up false signals. With experience, knocking or banging on the wall with your hand can help you distinguish stud locations. Another trick is to try to locate drywall screws or nails. This is easier on older homes where the nails may have "walked" or "popped" through the drywall mud and paint covering them. Locate one and you can use a level to draw a vertical line to locate the others.
Punch Small Holes at First
When you locate a spot that does not have a stud behind it, use a hammer to punch a hole in the drywall. You can make multiple small holes, either in a line or in a circle. When a small section is punched out, look inside. Use a flashlight if necessary. You do not want to punch into wires or plumbing lines.
Pull the Drywall Away
Grab the drywall by the hole you made and yank it away from the studs. It may come out in large pieces or small ones. Pulling it away in large pieces may seem more efficient, but remember that you will have to haul those large sections out of the room and possibly up or down stairs to throw it in the dumpster. Smaller pieces are more manageable. Use a utility knife to score the drywall tape in corners. This will help minimize damage to an adjacent wall if that wall is not being removed.
Remove the Screws
Once the drywall is removed from the studs, the screws and nails must be removed to prevent catching on clothing or tearing your skin while working. Use a drill or screwgun with a Phillips bit to remove the screws. Do not re-use drywall screws, as they are weak and prone to breakage after use. Use the claw of a hammer to remove nails. In some cases, it is easier to just completely hammer the nails into the stud than it is to remove them.
Wear Protection
You may find mold in the wall cavity or the back side of the drywall once it is removed. Use work gloves to handle the drywall. Also wear a respirator to avoid inhaling airborne dust, drywall dust and mold particles.
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