How do I level an uneven ceiling?

Question

The sheetrock in my living room is sagging between the joists. I have been told that the joists are too far apart (24') or that the builder used sheetrock that was too thin. Either way, the ceiling has a wavy appearance.

Ann|The Apple Street Cottage · Answer

Tear it out or install anew ceiling below this one. Here's an article:

https://www.familyhandyman.com/drywall/ceiling-repair-fix-a-sagging-ceiling/view-all/

I also wonder if you could install a plank ceiling over it??

Mogie · Answer

https://www.familyhandyman.com/drywall/ceiling-repair-fix-a-sagging-ceiling/view-all/

Mary Waechter · Answer

Or put in faux beams.

Sharon · Answer

Wow that's the worst I've seen, replace it. Wonder if he put thin stuff up cause he was afraid those joists wouldn't hold the weight on 1/2' - 5/8'. I would cut a hole and see what the board is.... read this discussion on the subject.... http://www.inspectionnews.net/home_inspection/building-interior-home-inspection-and-commercial-inspection/34552-wavy-drywall-ceiling.html then I would consult with building supply about newer stronger board that won't sag or go with 5/8' and put extra cross supports between joists for screwing into to add additional support.

Nicki Petruzzella Kerns · Answer

Yikes! It looks like fabric is hanging from your ceiling!

Laura Cooper · Answer

I would seriously consider making an insurance claim for this with a letter or two from local contractors indicating that substandard materials and/or workmanship were used.

Ann|The Apple Street Cottage · Answer

I completely understand why you don't want to tear it out. I hope you'll share what you do!

Connie Cox Hughes · Answer

The best is to tear it out and put new in. I covered new drywall over the old and the new is worse than the old It's messy but worth the time and effort and won't have to do over like I have to

Gal28728371 · Answer

Don’t go near your insurance company. They will only raise your rates or cancel your policy. You need to take down the ceiling. Then screw 3/4” x 3” x 8’ plywood strips/boards perpendicular to your joists. Your local lumber yard can cut these boards for you from 4’ x 8’ plywood sheets. They will charge for this extra service. Space these boards either 12” or 16” apart. Then hang new 5/8” drywall. This will never sag. Good luck!

Johnavallance82 · Answer

Hello, Have it skim plastered by a professional, or at least get their advice!

Johnavallance82 · Answer

If this was my ceiling, I would have it pulled down to see what is really going on. Then atleast you will be working from knowledge, and ofcourse, knowledge is everything. If you don't want to do it yourself (a dirty job, get a Builder to do it for you, then disguss with them the way forward.

David Broggi · Answer

Hi, I have the exact same issue (just as bad). Can I ask how much that cost?

How do I level an uneven ceiling?

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How do I level an uneven ceiling?

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