Short Answer: More than you would think! I’m always amazed at how many tools are in my drywall kit. If you’re hanging drywall in a room, basement, or garage, you will likely need:
That’s the core setup.
You do not need specialty contractor gear to hang drywall properly. You need the right basic tools and you need to use them correctly.
Now let me break down what each one does and what to look for when buying.
Before You Start: Hanging Drywall Is About Control
Most people think hanging drywall is the easy part.
It is easier than finishing. But it still goes wrong when you rush it.
Bad cuts leave gaps.
Wrong screws crack edges.
Poor layout wastes sheets.
I hang drywall in old Cleveland houses where framing is rarely perfect. Good tools make that manageable.
If you want my full drywall supply list in one place, it’s here:https://shoplowes.me/4qXiCjQ
Now let’s walk through the tools.
Utility Knife
This is your main cutting tool.
You do not saw drywall across the face. You score it, snap it, and cut the back paper.
What It Does
- Scores drywall sheets
- Trims edges
- Cuts outlet openings after snapping
What to Look For
- Solid locking blade
- Comfortable grip
- Easy blade changes
You want a knife that feels stable when you press hard. A flimsy one will flex and ruin clean cuts.
Pro tip: Score once firmly. Do not make five light passes.
Drywall T-Square
If you are cutting full sheets, this is not optional.
A 48-inch drywall T-square spans the width of a standard 4×8 sheet.
What It Does
- Creates straight cross cuts
- Speeds up layout
- Keeps measurements accurate
What to Look For
- Lightweight aluminum
- True 48-inch length
- Solid head that sits flat
If your cuts are crooked, every seam becomes harder to finish.
Shop drywall T-squares at Lowe’s
Tape Measure
You will measure more than you think.
Stud spacing. Ceiling height. Cutouts. Door openings.
What to Look For
- 25-foot length
- Clear markings
- Smooth retract
You do not need a giant framing tape for drywall. Compact and accurate wins.
Shop 25-ft tape measures at Lowe’s
Drill or Drywall Screw Gun
You have to fasten sheets cleanly.
Most homeowners can use a standard drill with a drywall depth-set bit.
What It Does
- Drives screws consistently
- Sets screw heads just below surface
What to Look For
- Adjustable clutch
- Lightweight design
- Good balance
The goal is to sink screws just below the paper without breaking it.
If you tear the paper, that screw loses holding strength.
Shop drywall screw guns at Lowe’s
Drywall Screws
Use the right screws for the job.
Fine thread screws
Use these for metal studs.
Coarse thread screws
Use these for wood studs.
For 1/2-inch drywall on wood framing, 1-1/4-inch screws are standard.
Do not use generic construction screws. They are not designed for drywall paper.
Proper drywall screws prevent popping and cracking later.
Shop 1-1/4-in drywall screws at Lowe’s
Saw Horses
You need a stable cutting surface.
Trying to measure and score drywall on the floor is awkward and inaccurate.
What They Do
- Support full sheets
- Provide snapping leverage
- Protect your back
A pair of sturdy folding saw horses is enough for most projects.
They also make cutting outlet holes easier and cleaner.
Step Ladder
You cannot safely hang drywall near ceilings without proper footing.
What It Does
- Gives stable access
- Keeps you from overreaching
- Improves control when fastening
Never stretch to reach the top row of screws. Move the ladder.
Stability matters more than speed.
Optional Tools That Make Life Easier
You can hang drywall without these. But they help.
Drywall Lift
Great for ceilings if you are working alone.
Panel Carrier
Makes carrying sheets easier and safer.
Drywall Rasp
Smooths rough cut edges before installing.
These are helpful but not required for small projects.
How Many Tools Do I Really Need?
For a typical DIY room, the core list is enough:
- Knife
- T-square
- Tape
- Drill
- Screws
- Saw horses
- Ladder
That setup handles almost every homeowner drywall install.
You do not need specialty pro tools unless you are hanging drywall every week.
Common Mistakes When Hanging Drywall
Not staggering seams
Vertical seams should not line up across rows.
Not hitting studs consistently
Every edge must land on framing.
Using the wrong screw spacing
Too few screws cause movement. Too many weaken edges.
Leaving large gaps
Tight seams are easier to finish.
If you are unsure about finishing after hanging, read:
How to Fix Drywall Seam Cracks
What Comes After Hanging?
Once drywall is up, the real work begins.
Taping. Mudding. Sanding.
If you are new to that process, start here:
Drywall Seam Cracks: Why They Happen and How to Fix Them
Hanging is the foundation. Finishing is what people see.
Final Advice
If you are asking what tools you need to hang drywall, keep it simple.
Buy the core tools.
Focus on clean cuts.
Drive screws correctly.
Keep seams tight.
Hanging drywall is manageable for most homeowners if you stay organized.
And if you are in Northeast Ohio and would rather not wrestle 4×8 sheets up a stairwell, Colin Can Help handles drywall installation and repair professionally.