Add a Walk-In Closet to Your Master Bedroom
Dear James: We created a master bedroom from two smaller bedrooms. Now, we want to build a walk-in closet into a corner. How big should one be, and how should we build it? Aaron M.
Dear Aaron: A walk-in closet is found in almost every master bedroom these days. This is a pretty simple do-it-yourself project because you just have to build a framed shell, cover it with drywall, and hang a decorative pre-hung interior door.
Because it is such a popular feature, some builders and remodelers try to fit a walk-in closet into a bedroom or house that is too small for it. This not only looks odd but also isn’t very functional. By taking space away from the rest of a small bedroom, the functionality of the entire bedroom can be compromised.
Is It Better to Rent or Buy Drywall Hanging Tools/Equipment?
Dear James: Much of the drywall in my house is uneven and needs to be replaced. I plan to hang the drywall myself. Are there tools or fixtures that will make it easier for a beginner? Noah L.
Dear Noah: Hanging drywall is not as difficult as most people think it is. Apparently, the original installer of your existing drywall didn’t do a good job. It is difficult to repair drywall that was not installed properly, so your decision to just replace it is the correct one.
Even if you are not experienced doing this, some minor imperfections won’t be extremely apparent. Most walls are painted with flat wall paint, making it difficult to see imperfections, especially at the joints. If you plan to paint some of the walls with semigloss paint, install drywall on those walls last so you are further into the learning curve.