Installers check plans for the location of rooms and hallways, then they cut and screw together metal channels to make floor and ceiling frames. The installers then screw the drywall panels to the framework. After the drywall is installed, Tapers join the panels together using automatic tools to apply joint compound between the panels. Tapers apply the joint compound along each side of the joint, and apply paper tape the length of the joint. When the joint compound is dry, they may apply more coats to fill in any holes and make the surface smooth.
Tapers also sand or patch nicks or cracks caused by putting in plumbing or light fixtures.
They may also apply a textured surface on walls and ceilings, sometimes by hand, but usually with a spray machine. They may work on ladders and platforms and may lift big, heavy sections of drywall. Workers need to buy the small tools needed for the job, such as a measuring tape, taping knife, and a drywall hammer. The employer usually buys the more expensive tools needed to do the work. The California Projections of Employment, published by the Labor Market Information Division of the Employment Development Department, estimates that the number of Drywall Installers and Tapers in California will reach 22,950 by 2005, an increase in new jobs of 10,880 over the number there was in 1993.