How can I efficiently remove drywall from a ceiling with plywood above it?
Asked by Nora Douglas 
6 months ago
Last Updated: May 24, 2024
What’s the most effective way to take down the drywall from a ceiling that has plywood on top of it?
So, grab a saw and set it to the width of the drywall. Cut the drywall into sections and then just pull it off the ceiling.
So, , are you referring to depth or thickness, not width?
Wait, was talking about depth, not width.
Hey, have you seen Nagh? He’s the guy with the massive 4-foot saw blade.
It’s going to be pretty dusty and messy when you saw it. Just use a flat bar to pry it off. Try to keep the pieces as large as you can to make cleanup easier later on. Unfortunately, there’s no simple solution for this.
Shovel used by roofers
– The Red Ripper
If there’s plywood right above the current drywall, just borrow a drywall lift and put up new drywall.
Hey , wouldn’t you agree that three layers of crap are better than just two?
– I just checked the photo again, and I think you’re right that 3 layers of drywall is too much. I would recommend removing it and then putting up new drywall if it’s an indoor area. Alternatively, you could consider leaving it as a plywood ceiling if it’s a garage.
Yep, that’s exactly how I handled it even without the plywood above, I simply opted for a longer drywall screw and ensured it reached the joist. I wasn’t about to deal with the chaos of scraping off old plaster from the ceiling.
Is the plywood going to stay?
Oh yeah! It ended up being a blessing in disguise. At least now I don’t have to remove all the insulation from the attic/crawlspace 🤌
Hey , that’s great to hear!
By using whatever you have on hand to pull…a flat bar, or any tool that can do the same job of digging and prying
If I were the owner, I’d question the presence of plywood in that spot
I have a feeling there’s ancient plaster hidden by the plywood
Give it a tug?
Digger
Appreciate everyone! Went to Home Depot late at night to get a wrecking bar (a fancy crowbar) and it was pretty easy to bring down 🙌
Do you think a shovel or a flat ice scraper would work?
No content
You could use a nail wrench and a hammer.
Maybe try a Gorilla bar, hammer, various flat bars, and attach a screw shank to a drill. It takes time but it’ll work.
I think I’d go with a flat bar instead