Drywall is an essential part of any construction project. It helps to create a solid foundation on which you can build other materials and plays an integral role in the insulation and soundproofing of a structure.
Because of its importance, anyone looking to enter the construction industry will significantly benefit from developing the skill in drywall installations.
What Does a Drywall Contractor do?
Drywall contractors (hanger contractors, drywall hangers, or drywall framers) work on applying plasterboard or wallboard on ceilings or interior walls.
Drywall typically consists of heavy paper material with gypsum sandwiched in between layers. While typical drywalls are handled manually by two installers, installing drywall on ceilings requires mechanical lifts to have it stay in place.
What Skills Does a Drywall Contractor need?
Since drywall installation requires physical work, you must be fit for the tasks. Basic skills in using power tools like drills and power saws are necessary.
Manual dexterity and good eyesight are also crucial to ensure all drywalls are measured and fitted appropriately. On this note, basic math skills are essential, so you determine proper measurements and avoid costly back jobs.
Like any building project, it involves various people with different tasks in the building process. You need to have collaborative skills to ensure smooth operation for everyone involved.
Steps on How to Become a Drywall Contractor
A High School Diploma or Vocational Training
A standard requirement for most drywall contractors is to have at least a high school degree or equivalent.
An associate degree (Applied Science) focused on construction is also something you can consider if taking on a four-year degree is not an option.
You will touch on subjects like construction safety, carpentry, correctly reading a blueprint and drywall installation, to name a few.
If you’re considering employment, you can look into postsecondary training offered in trade or community technical schools.
On-the-Job Training
A contractor may offer on-the-job training for those interested in sharpening their drywall installation (and repair) skills.
Sometimes, one can become a drywall contractor and work on other essential tasks like drywall finishing or being given superintendent roles.
Apprenticeship
You can also investigate apprenticeships offered on several carpenter-based websites like the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC).
Supplemental Learning
You can also consider learning from other resources outside the school. You can take a workshop offering drywall installation or sign-up for an online course offering one.
Follow people who are successful individuals and learn from them. You can also learn from experience and look into resources online where you can DIY projects at home.
How to Get a Drywall Contractor License
First, you’ll need to review all the licensing requirements stipulated in your state. Some licenses require specific years of experience or passing a program as a requirement in applying for a permit.
You can investigate drywall construction programs in your local trade school if you don’t have any work experience. Once you’ve accumulated all the requirements, download and fill out the necessary details in the application form.
Once you pass the drywall contractor licensing exam, you need to obtain a contractor’s bond before proceeding.
How to Get Contracts as a Drywall Contractor
Attend trade shows to make connections with construction companies
Attending events such as trade shows exposes you to numerous professionals and potential clients.
You can get involved in your local industry groups and network with other contractors or clients.
Before doing this, it’s recommended to give your website up-to-date contact information to make it easier for them to get in touch with you.
Offer to do free estimates to drum up leads
An effective way to get clients is to offer them free estimates, which will highlight your expertise and bring potential clients to look into your services further.
Advertise in local trade journals
If you have a knack for writing and sharing insights, you can look into construction journals in your area. Reaching to readers on an online or traditional platform ensures you’re exposing your expertise to a broader audience.
Create a blog about drywalling to generate leads
Creating a blog is another cost-efficient way of exposing your drywall installation services and skills. You can generate leads from these blogs for your website and position yourself as an industry expert.
Talk to contractors you know or have worked with
Get in touch with employers or contractors from your on-the-job training or apprenticeships. Reach out to them and ask if they have upcoming projects they need help with.
Utilizing this method will not only save you time and energy, but it would also be easier to work with them since you’ve already established a good relationship.
Go door-to-door and business-to-business with flyers
These traditional methods are still effective ways to inform your market about the services you offer. Door-to-door flyers still deliver a personal touch and expose your business to a large crowd.
Put up flyers and hand out business cards
Look into your local community, where you can distribute flyers displaying your services. If there are local events, you can also attend these and network with potential clients or contractors.
It would entail zero cost while cultivating good relationships with your neighbors who can be potential clients in the future or refer you to their networks.
Work with associations for building contractors
To successfully become a drywall contractor, you can participate in construction and building associations offered in your state.
Established builder’s associations like the Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. (ABC), Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the American Institute of Contractors (AIC) are some you can start with.
Join online communities, like Facebook groups for contractors
Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn are some places to look for your potential customers and fellow contractors. Online groups have industry-focused communities where you can network and check for the latest trends on what your market needs (and wants) for their building project.
FAQs
Is a drywall company profitable?
A drywall company’s profitability is highly profitable. A company offering drywall services will usually make 50 percent of the profit aside from the materials used for the project.
How do I get a C9 license?
To get a C9 license, you must pass the Contractor State License Board exam covering building safety, estimating, and job site management. Ideally, drywall contractor exams are available for 18 years old and above. However, it’s best to take the exam when you’ve already accumulated about five years of experience first as part of the experience requirement.
How do I start a small drywall business?
If you become a drywall contractor and plan to start a business in this industry, you need to have insurance in place first. It should bring credibility to your services and peace of mind for your clients. In addition, you’ll need a C9 license and equipment. You’ll work with subcontractors occasionally, so finding ones that do the installation and repair work will be beneficial.
Do I need a license to install drywall in California?
All contractors need to pass the Contractors State License Board in California to perform drywall services.
How much should I charge to hang and finish drywall?
The average cost to hang and finish drywall is $2 per square foot, and this includes the cost of materials, labor, and overhead.
Takeaway
A drywall contractor’s goal is to provide a high-quality product at a fair price. Starting a career as a drywall contractor is achievable and fulfilling. If you’re willing to put in the work, you can build a successful business in a field that is always in demand.
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