Drywall

Small holes, dents, and cracks can usually be patched, taped, and blended so the repair is hard to see. Drywall that is soaked, moldy, sagging, or extensively damaged is usually better replaced. A drywall pro can assess the damage, check for hidden moisture, and recommend the most cost-effective approach for your situation.

Cost depends on the square footage, ceiling height, number of corners and openings, the type of board, and the level of finish you want. Repairs that require matching an existing texture take extra time. Hauling away old material and painting afterward may or may not be included, so ask for an estimate that clearly lists everything.

Hanging the board is often quick, but taping and finishing take longer because each coat of joint compound needs time to dry before sanding. Many basement projects take one to a few weeks from hanging to paint-ready walls. Humidity and cold temperatures can slow drying, so heating and ventilation help keep winter projects on track.

Cracks often show up at corners, above doors, and along seams as a house expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. South Dakota's dry winters and seasonal swings can make this more noticeable, and new homes may show cracks as framing settles. Small cracks are usually cosmetic, but large or growing cracks should be checked for structural or moisture issues.

Moisture-resistant and mold-resistant drywall is commonly used in bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements where humidity can be higher. Areas directly exposed to water, such as shower walls, usually call for cement board or another tile backer instead. Fire-rated drywall may be required in certain locations, such as garage walls shared with living space.

Simple drywall repairs typically do not require a permit, but finishing a basement or remodeling that involves framing, electrical, or plumbing usually does. Inspections may need to happen before the walls are closed up. Check with the City of Sioux Falls, the City of Rapid City, or your local building department to confirm what applies to your project.

Drywall finishing is commonly described in levels, ranging from basic taping in areas that will not be seen to a smooth, fully skim-coated surface. Most living spaces receive a finish suitable for paint and light texture. Areas with strong lighting, glossy paint, or large smooth walls may benefit from a higher finish level to hide imperfections.

Experienced drywall finishers can usually match common textures such as orange peel, knockdown, and smooth finishes. Matching takes some testing, and slight differences may remain visible until the area is primed and painted. If you have popcorn ceilings in an older home, ask about testing for asbestos before any scraping or removal begins.

Drywall work produces a fair amount of fine dust, especially during sanding. Clear the room of furniture and valuables, and ask your contractor how they plan to protect floors, seal off doorways, and manage dust. Some pros use dust-control sanding tools, and covering vents or pausing your heating and cooling system during sanding keeps dust from spreading.

Look for a contractor who handles both hanging and finishing, carries insurance, and can show examples of past work. Ask for references and a written estimate that spells out materials, finish level, texture, cleanup, and timeline. Asking how they handle seams, corners, and touch-ups will give you a good sense of their attention to detail.