The cost-effective nature and versatility of drywall make it one of the most commonly used construction materials in the world. The gypsum used in the material also makes it fire-resistant. Drywall also comes with its challenges. It’s not particularly resistant to impact, so holes, cracks, and blemishes can easily appear. Protective coatings work well to protect the surface, but if the drywall isn’t installed properly, the coating can make it very difficult to repair tapes and joints that fail due to improper installation.
One of the most common mistakes while installing drywall is not accounting for temperature and humidity during the installation. Extreme temperatures and high relative humidity can interrupt slow down the evaporation of water from the compound. This slow evaporation leads to starved joints, shrinking along the seams, and increased days between coats. The nature of this material requires very specific conditions to guarantee its longevity and sturdiness after adding a final coat.
Ideal Conditions for Drywall Installation
The problems that come with installing drywall in improper climate conditions become particularly expensive, especially when they’re discovered after coating over the surface. So what conditions are ideal when installing drywall? Generally, the ideal temperature before, during, and 48 hours after drywall installation is 55°F. Different manufacturers may recommend slightly different temperatures for their particular mixture. In any case, temperatures should not go below 50°F or exceed 95°F. Relative humidity should be kept around 50%. Higher humidity leads to slow evaporation and a potential lag in the schedule, compounding to other critical paths.
Successful Drywall Installation Leads to Ontime Project Completion
With drywall being such a versatile foundation in modern construction, the proper installation of the material is paramount to projects being completed on time. If damages occur during the drying process due to improper conditions, it can throw the entire construction schedule off course. Delayed completion of drywall installation can be a compounding problem, delaying other critical paths of the construction process and increasing the likelihood of liquidated damages.
Ensuring Proper Drywall Installation with Polygon
Polygon is a leading provider of construction temporary climate equipment solutions and remote monitoring, ensuring that drying occurs in optimal conditions. Building HVAC systems cannot provide the level of control necessary for drywall installation. An expert from Polygon will equip your site with an engineered solution consisting of desiccant dehumidifiers, heaters, and air conditioning so that the exact conditions necessary for drywall installation can be achieved. When it comes time to add millwork, concrete, and other materials, Polygon can continue to control conditions on your site and keep the project on schedule.
Whether you are an architect, general contractor, or drywall specialist, you know that project delays can be costly. With Polygon as your partner, you can install construction materials knowing that the work you are doing is backed by the exact climate conditions necessary for success. To learn more about our effective and affordable engineered solutions for construction sites, contact our team today. Our team members are ready to answer your questions and equip your worksite with exactly what you need to successfully complete your project on time.
