Drywall Inspection Checklist
For: Drywall foremen, GC supervisors, building inspectors
Drywall is the most-often-rejected trade at frame inspection because the failure modes are visual and unforgiving. Once the finisher tapes over a missed firestop or a screw popping through the paper, the only fix is demo. This checklist covers the items that typically appear on inspector punch lists.
References: ASTM C840 · GA-216 Application & Finishing of Gypsum Panels · Local fire-rated assembly listings
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Hanging
Sheet orientation (perpendicular to framing on ceilings + horizontal on walls)
Maximum gap between sheets ≤1/8 in
ASTM C840 §6.4
Butt joints staggered, not aligned across studs
Sheets cut tight at floor (≤1/2 in gap, sealed for fire-rated assemblies)
Fasteners
Screw spacing — 12 in OC on ceilings, 16 in OC on walls (typical, verify per assembly)
GA-216
Screw heads slightly dimpled below paper, not torn
No exposed screw heads or proud screws
Edge fasteners ≥3/8 in from sheet edge to avoid blowout
Corner Beads & Trims
Corner beads plumb and tight, no waves
L-bead at terminations against dissimilar materials (windows, masonry)
Control joints at building expansion joints + max 30 ft on ceilings
Fire-Rated Assemblies (if applicable)
Fire-rated board (Type X) used per UL listing — verify product label
All penetrations firestopped per UL system (sleeves, conduit, plumbing)
IBC 714
Joints in fire-rated walls offset between layers if multi-layer
Wall extends to underside of structure (not just to ceiling) if rated
Pre-Tape Sign-Off
Photos of all penetrations with firestop installed
Inspector approval recorded with date + name + license
Any failed items documented with location + corrective action plan
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