Drywall is what most Canadian homes are constructed with and they do not magically appear as you walk into the space. They make up the interior wall that appears seamlessly as one surface once painted. Drywall also serves as building partitions that are often decorated and support acoustical and fire rating requirements. To get to that, however, a lot of skill and work goes into the process of drywall finishing, and it takes a team with steady hands, dexterity, and a craftsmanship to apply the necessary tools with the utmost precision. A career as a drywall finisher can be very lucrative and rewarding.
Let’s look at exactly what a drywall finisher does, what tools they need to use, and some of the training and skills that you will need for a career path in drywall finishing.
What a Drywall Finisher Does
Drywall finishing is a process. Like following a recipe, you will need to add one ingredient and then the next until the job is complete. As a drywall finisher, you will need to be skillful at doing a variety of related tasks:
- Mixing and applying compound
- Installing beads to protect corners
- Filling joints and imperfections
- Applying several coats of compound
- Sanding surfaces repeatedly to achieve the perfect finish
- Restoring mouldings, ornaments, plaster
- Reading blueprints so that you are accurate in sizing the heavy panels for cutting
- Using various power tools as well as machinery including lifts to install the drywall panels onto the walls and ceilings
Job Requirements for Drywall Finishers
Being active is a part of the job so drywall finishers need to be physically fit and have the stamina, flexibility, and comfort to work with heavy and sometimes hazardous material. Being on ladders and scaffolding with safety equipment including breathing masks and goggles is typical.
A drywall finisher does not need college level education, although high school is recommended to enter apprenticeship programs that are great stepping stones to learning and developing your career.
Drywall finishers are also familiar with construction software which helps them access inventory and job specifications, and update job status.
Opportunity Outlook for Drywall Finishing Remains Positive
The market for drywall finishers is strong and the projected outlook over the next five years remains constant. In fact, with a growing number of drywall finishers entering retirement, this means there will be a shortage of skilled drywall finishers, and less competition for those who are looking to start their career in drywall finishing.
Take the Next Step for a Career in Drywall Finishing
Drywall finishers play a critical role in the construction industry ecosystem. Building or renovating homes, schools, and workplaces require drywall finishers. With construction projects and infrastructure investment driving the economy, coupled with opportunity created by a scarcity in skilled trades, becoming a drywall finisher has never looked better. Advancing in this career path of drywall finishing can also lead to employment as a contractor. By joining the IUPAT, you’ll get the opportunity to train, develop your skills, earn competitive wages, and gain job security. Find out more about starting a career in drywall finishing by contacting us today.
