Drywall joint finishing: Productivity and ergonomics

Gypsum drywall panels are used extensively for wall cladding and structural fireproofing. Most interior building walls are of sufficient length and width to require at least two panels of drywall for complete coverage. Generally speaking, in residential construction, boards are placed horizontally (perpendicular to studs), and in commercial construction, boards are placed vertically (parallel to studs). This paper analyzes the effect of drywall panel and joint orientation on joint finishing operations. Productivity comparisons are made by investigating the total quantity of joint produced, productivity rates for various types of horizontal and vertical joints, and total time required to finish the joints. For typical residential applications, horizontal joints require less time to finish. For many commercial applications, vertical joints require less time to finish. However, there are many exceptions. Contractors and designers can save time and money by selecting the proper orientation. The locations of the joints on the wall also affects the motions and positions the craft worker must endure to complete the work. Professional finishers prefer horizontal joints because they greatly reduce the ergonomic stresses associated with bending down and reaching overhead.