Drywall Installation & Finishing in Wilmington, DE

New drywall shows up in basement finishing, garage conversions, additions, and remodels where walls were opened up. Hanging is fast; finishing is where the time and skill go.

What to specify in your quote request

Board type: standard 1/2" for most walls; 5/8" Type X fire-rated where code requires it, such as many attached-garage walls and ceilings adjoining living space; moisture- and mold-resistant board in basements and bathrooms; cement board, not drywall, behind tile in showers.
Level of finish: the industry uses Levels 0–5. Level 4 is the usual standard for painted walls; Level 5 (a full skim coat) is worth it under strong side lighting or with glossy paint.
Ceilings: 1/2" sag-resistant or 5/8" board on ceilings, especially with wider joist spacing.
Who does prep and paint: clarify whether priming, painting, corner bead style, and cleanup are included.

Basements

Many New Castle County basements see seasonal dampness. Before finishing, fix grading and gutters, deal with any water entry, and talk with your contractor about the wall assembly (rigid foam against the concrete, no plastic vapor barrier sandwiched in the wall, and a gap between the board and the floor). Finishing a basement typically requires a building permit, and inspections may be needed before the drywall goes up.

Timeline

A typical basement takes a crew about a day or two to hang, then 3–5 more days of taping, coating, and sanding with drying time between.

Questions about drywall installation & finishing

Do I need a permit to finish my basement?

Usually yes. Finishing a basement is generally permitted work in New Castle County and its towns, and framing, electrical, and insulation inspections often have to happen before drywall goes up. Your contractor should confirm with the right office for your address.

What's the difference between Level 4 and Level 5 finish?

Level 4 is three coats on joints and fasteners and is standard for flat or eggshell paint. Level 5 adds a thin skim coat over the entire surface to hide texture differences, which is recommended for glossy paint or walls with strong window light.

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