If you're a homeowner in Michigan planning a renovation or repair project, one of the most common services you'll likely encounter is drywall work. From fixing small holes to installing new walls or ceilings, drywall is a foundational element of modern home interiors. Understanding what to expect in terms of pricing can help you budget effectively and avoid surprises.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the high-end pricing structure for drywall services in Michigan. Whether you're dealing with a small patch job or a full-room installation, this guide will provide clear cost ranges and descriptions of the services involved.

What Factors Influence Drywall Pricing?

Before we break down individual services, it’s important to understand the main factors that affect drywall pricing:

• Size of the area: Larger projects typically cost more, but may cost less per square foot.
• Labor costs: Labor in Michigan varies slightly by region but is generally in the mid-to-high range compared to national averages.
• Level of finish: A Level 5 finish (the highest) costs more than Level 2 or 3.
• Type of drywall: Moisture-resistant, fire-rated, soundproof, or other specialty boards increase material costs.
• Accessibility: Ceilings, stairwells, or hard-to-reach places increase labor time and cost.
• Disposal and clean-up: Some companies include this in their base price; others charge separately.

Let’s explore common drywall services and what you can expect to pay on the higher end of the spectrum in Michigan.

1. Small Drywall Patching Jobs

Description:

Small patching jobs involve repairing holes, cracks, dents, or water-damaged areas. These are typically 1–4 sq. ft. in size and often occur due to accidents, plumbing issues, or hardware removal.

What’s Included:

• Removal of damaged drywall
• Installation of new patch
• Taping and mudding
• Sanding
• One to two coats of primer or finishing compound

High-End Cost Estimates in Michigan:

• Minimum Service Call: $150–$250
• Per Patch (1–4 sq. ft.): $250–$450
• Multiple Patches (e.g., 3–5 in one visit): $600–$1,200
• With Painting Included: Add $100–$200 per patch

Notes:

Expect a higher quote if the patch is in a ceiling, stairwell, or textured wall. Water damage or mold remediation may also increase the price.

2. Large Patching or Sectional Repairs

Description:

This service is for larger damaged areas, such as those caused by flooding, fire damage, or major renovations. Typically, these involve replacing entire sections between studs (e.g., 4x8 ft or larger).

What’s Included:

• Demolition and removal of damaged drywall
• Installation of full drywall sheets
• Taping, mudding, sanding
• Optional texturing or painting

High-End Cost Estimates in Michigan:

• Per Section (4x8 ft or 32 sq. ft.): $500–$800
• Per Square Foot: $8–$14
• Wall & Ceiling Combo Repair (e.g., corner damage): $1,000–$2,000

Notes:

If you need matching texture (e.g., knockdown, orange peel), expect an additional $1–$2 per sq. ft. Custom color-matching and painting may also raise costs.

3. Drywall Finishing (Taping, Mudding, Sanding)

Description:

Drywall finishing transforms raw drywall panels into smooth, paint-ready surfaces. This includes taping the seams, applying joint compound (mud), and sanding between coats.

Levels of Finish:

• Level 3: For garages or non-decorative areas
• Level 4: Standard for painted residential walls
• Level 5: Premium finish for smooth or glossy surfaces

What’s Included:

• Tape and joint compound over all seams and screw holes
• Sanding between coats
• Skim coating (Level 5)
• Optional texturing

High-End Cost Estimates in Michigan:

• Per Square Foot:
• Level 3: $2.50–$4.00
• Level 4: $3.50–$5.00
• Level 5: $5.00–$6.50
• Minimum Service Call: $500–$800

Notes:

Expect a premium for ceilings, stairwells, or tight areas. A Level 5 finish is especially expensive due to the extra skim coat and sanding time.

4. Drywall Installation (Walls or Ceilings)

Description:

Installation covers everything from attaching drywall sheets to framing, finishing, and preparing the surface for paint. Ideal for new construction, additions, or major remodeling.

What’s Included:

• Material delivery
• Hanging drywall
• Taping, mudding, sanding
• Finishing to specified level (usually Level 4)
• Clean-up and debris removal

High-End Cost Estimates in Michigan:

• Per Square Foot (Labor + Materials):
• Standard Wall: $4.50–$7.00
• Ceiling: $5.50–$8.00
• Fire-rated/Moisture-resistant board: +$1.00–$2.00/sq. ft.
• Per Room (Average 12x12 room = 400–450 sq. ft. of drywall):
• Walls Only: $1,800–$3,000
• Walls & Ceiling: $2,500–$4,500
• Basement Finishing (e.g., 1,000 sq. ft.): $5,000–$9,000

Notes:

Expect additional charges for cathedral ceilings, curved walls, or odd layouts. Some contractors also charge separately for materials and labor; always clarify what's included.

5. Drywall for Specialty Projects

Common Specialty Jobs:

• Soundproofing drywall (QuietRock or similar): $7–$10 per sq. ft.
• Green board (moisture-resistant): $5–$8 per sq. ft.
• Fire-rated drywall (Type X): $6–$9 per sq. ft.
• Vaulted/Cathedral Ceilings: +15–30% labor premium
• Garage conversions or ADUs: $7,000–$15,000 depending on size

Why the Premium?

Specialty drywall is heavier and often requires extra labor, tools, and handling. The finishing requirements are also stricter in soundproofing or fire-rated projects.

Cost Comparison Table: Drywall Services in Michigan (High-End Estimates)

ServiceCost EstimateSmall Patch (1–4 sq. ft.)$250–$450 per patchMultiple Patches (3–5)$600–$1,200Large Section Repair (4x8)$500–$800Finishing (Level 4)$3.50–$5.00 per sq. ft.Finishing (Level 5)$5.00–$6.50 per sq. ft.Installation (Standard Walls)$4.50–$7.00 per sq. ft.Installation (Ceilings)$5.50–$8.00 per sq. ft.Soundproof or Fire-Rated Board$7.00–$10.00 per sq. ft.Complete Room (12x12 walls only)$1,800–$3,000Basement (1,000 sq. ft.)$5,000–$9,000

How to Get an Accurate Estimate

While these high-end estimates can help with general budgeting, drywall pricing is always best confirmed with a free in-home estimate. A reputable drywall contractor will assess your project’s complexity and give you a breakdown that includes:

• Square footage
• Type of drywall
• Level of finish
• Accessibility
• Clean-up and disposal fees
• Painting (if included)

Tips for Hiring a Drywall Contractor in Michigan:

1. Ask for References: High-quality finish work takes skill—make sure the contractor has positive reviews and examples.
2. Check for Licensing and Insurance: Michigan requires residential builders and maintenance/alteration contractors to be licensed.
3. Clarify the Finish Level: Always specify what level of finish you need, especially if you plan to use glossy paint.
4. Confirm Timeline: Good drywallers are often booked out—ask about lead times.

Final Thoughts

Drywall is one of those services where you get what you pay for. Low bids can mean poor finishing, visible seams, or long delays. If you’re looking for quality workmanship in Michigan and are willing to pay on the higher end for a clean, professional result, expect to budget as follows:

• Small jobs: $250–$450
• Room-sized jobs: $2,500–