Drywall Estimating Services
Drywall looks simple on paper, but every wall can be different. One partition may need two layers of fire-rated board. The next may need moisture-resistant board and a Level 5 finish. These details decide your material order and your labor hours.
Estimexa prepares drywall estimates for contractors across the USA. We read your partition schedule and wall types, measure every wall and ceiling, and price the board, framing and finishing for each one.
You skip the measuring and calculations. Your estimate is ready to use in your bid.
How Is Drywall Estimated?
Drywall is estimated in square feet. The team multiplies the wall length by its height, then subtracts doors and windows. Ceilings are measured by area. The total area is then converted into sheets, and framing, finishing materials and labor are added to reach the final cost.
What We Count
Board
Standard, moisture-resistant, Type X fire-rated, abuse-resistant and cement board. Each type is converted into 4×8, 4×10 or 4×12 sheets.
Framing
Metal studs by size and gauge, top and bottom track, deflection track and backing.
Finishing
Joint compound, tape, corner bead and trim, based on the finish level.
Ceilings and Soffits
Hard-lid ceilings, bulkheads and soffits, including their framing.
Labor
Hours to frame, hang, tape and finish, shown for each wall type.
Drywall Finish Levels Explained
Level | What It Means | Where It’s Used |
Level 0 | No taping or finishing | Temporary walls |
Level 1 | Tape set in joint compound | Above ceilings, hidden areas |
Level 2 | Tape plus one coat over joints and screws | Garages, behind tile |
Level 3 | Tape plus two coats | Walls with heavy texture |
Level 4 | Tape plus three coats | Most painted walls and ceilings |
Level 5 | Level 4 plus a skim coat over the full surface | Gloss paint or strong lighting |
Higher levels need more compound and more labor. We price the finish level shown on your plans or specs for each area.
Why Drywall Contractors Work With Estimexa
Each Wall Type Priced on Its Own
Your plans may show several wall types, each with different studs, board and layers. We price each one separately, so you can see where your costs come from and adjust any line easily.
Sheet Counts You Can Order From
We list board quantities by sheet size and type. You can send the list straight to your supplier without recalculating.
Labor That Matches the Finish
A Level 5 wall takes far more time than a Level 2 wall. We price labor by the finish level each area needs, so your crew hours are realistic.
Fast and Flexible
Most drywall estimates are ready within 24 hours. If the plans change, we update your estimate at no extra cost. You pay per project, with no contract.
See What You’ll Receive
Before you send your plans, you can review a sample estimate to see the format, the level of detail and how costs are broken down.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate how many sheets of drywall I need?
Find the total square footage of walls and ceilings. Divide it by the area of one sheet, which is 32 square feet for a 4×8 sheet. Then add extra for waste and cuts.
How much does drywall cost per square foot?
It depends on the board type, wall height, finish level and local labor rates. A takeoff from your plans gives the most accurate price for your project.
What is Type X drywall?
Type X is fire-rated drywall. It’s used in walls and ceilings that need a fire rating, such as corridors, garages and walls between units.
Which finish level do I need?
Level 4 is the most common for painted walls. Level 5 is used for glossy paint or areas with strong side lighting. Your specs usually state the required level.
Do you estimate residential drywall too?
Yes. We estimate homes, apartments and commercial buildings.