It’s a question that every homeowner has asked at some point: can you drywall over a window? The answer is yes, but it depends. This blog post will explore when it’s appropriate to drywall over a window and when it’s not.
You can Drywall over a window if you’re sure that you won’t need to access or replace that window in the future. The process is fairly simple. You don’t need to use bricks or cement or hire a professional.
Whether you choose to obstruct sunlight, hide destruction, create storage space, or build confidentiality, drywalling over a window or a basement window can be the perfect solution, especially if you finish it with J-molding on the edges. It allows you to attain a smooth finish that is easy to paint and wallpaper. But should you really Drywall over a window? And are there any drawbacks to it?
Can You Drywall Over a Window?
Yes, you can drywall over a window, but before you do, you must be sure that’s what you want. Because if you want the window to be accessible in the future or you think you might want to replace it at some point down the line, then it’s probably best not to.
But if you’re sure you want to, technically, you can do it fairly easily. Removing the window permanently is possible. Drywalling over it is both a fast and convenient option. You don’t need to use bricks or cement. You can simply hang drywall panels over a window to look like the part of the wall.
In addition, covering a window using sheetrock can save you a lot of bucks. As it is easier than turning a window into a wall, you can drywall a window on your own. You don’t have to hire any other worker, saving you hundreds of bucks in labor costs.
How Do You Drywall A Window?
There are two ways to drywall a window: you can use plastic or metal trims to cover the window or install a wooden frame around the window first, and then attach drywall over it.
With the first approach, the light can enter the room from the outside. However, the window won’t be visible. Alternatively, you’ll get an extra layer of protection with the second method. It’s perfect for you if you want to obstruct sunlight and create privacy.
Here’s how to drywall over a window:
Step #1
Run a tool knife around the edges of the window to remove paint and caulk or J-mold. Use a pry-bar to cut the beam and finish. Afterward, sand away any imperfections using sandpaper to avoid trim and sill.
Step #2
Measure the window cavity and fill it with 1×1 wood frameworks. You can get a hand, miter, or chopping tool to cut the wood. Afterward, cut the plywood to suit the window measurements. You can use a rotating tool, jig saw, or a table knife to split the plywood board.
Step #3
Based on your window cavity measurements, cut the drywall panel. Put together both drywall and plywood to get the actual thickness. Use wood fastens to screw the frameworks to the window cavity.
Step #4
Before fastening the plywood, make sure to use insulation to protect your drywall from moisture. It is advised to get fiberglass insulation in the window cavity (behind the 1×1 framework).
Step #5
Against the framework, attach the plywood and screw it. Afterward, use drywall screws (ensure that they are rust-resistant If humidity is a problem in your area)to attach drywall to the plywood.
Step #6
Once the new drywall is in place, apply a coat of joint compound over the gaps between the new and existing one. If you’re using Drywall compound on Plywood, make sure that it sticks.
If you have some old Drywall compound and it’s still useable, you might want to use it instead of buying a new one. To do so, you can use a putty knife and medium-firm pressure. Run the drywall tape over the wet drywall mud and smooth down the surface using the putty knife.
Step #7
Apply another coat of drywall compound to cover the drywall tape. Let your drywall dry, and then sand the surface to eliminate imperfections. If there are holes or gaps between panels, use acrylic latex caulk to hide them.
Step #8
Apply as much drywall mud as needed to match the texture of the existing drywall. It might be mixed, trowel-distressed, or splattered with the texture grit.
Step #9
Lastly, use a high-quality primer to prime the surface. This will ensure a smooth finish, making it easy for you to paint the drywall, don’t forget to remove Drywall dust before you paint. You should use the same primer and paint used on the old drywall. Primer is not always necessary, but if you wish to know if yours needs one, click here.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove A Window And Make It a Wall?
On average, the cost of turning a window into a wall can fall anywhere between $10-$20 per square foot. As the most common window size is 24×36, the job can cost you up to $8,640 to $17,280.
The actual cost of this job depends upon several factors, including:
- Labor Costs – Labor costs dramatically influence the cost of turning a window into a wall. Unless you’re planning to take on the entire project yourself, you’ll need to hire laborers and pay the compensation cost.
- Material Cost – Methods to remove a window and turn it into a wall will differ depending on the material used. For homeowners, the most economical option is buying different project materials.
- Size of Window – Of course, the size of the window will also affect the total cost of the job. For instance, a large window will cost you more to change than a smaller one.
- Your Location – Some areas (like major cities) have higher prices for materials and labor than other locations. This is due to the competition level and the average size of homes in those local areas.
Remember that the more difficult a selected method is, the higher the project cost will be. Hiring someone to turn a window into a wall is recommended as most homeowners are not workers. Otherwise, you might spend even more money than you can afford!
FAQs:
Can You Cover An Existing Window?
Yes, you can cover (both temporarily or permanently) an existing window. Temporary methods of covering an existing window include tacking up a blanket or cardboard. Alternatively, if you want to cover a window permanently, you can drywall over it!
How Do You Cover Unused Windows?
To cover an unused window, you can use plywood. First of all, measure the dimensions of the window you want to cover. If you want to cover an exterior window, use exterior-grade plywood. Cut the plywood to match the dimensions of the window. Screw the plywood and paint it to protect it from the elements.
How To Close Off A Window From The Outside?
It is not recommended to use drywall (especially the regular one) to cover the window from the outside. For this approach, use exterior-grade plywood and fiberglass insulation. Don’t forget to use a primer and paint the surface to protect the window frame from the elements.