Description
Remove drywall, plasterboard, lath, and acoustical ceiling or wall tiles from building interiors for renovation or demolition. Protect structures, locate utilities, control dust, and dispose or recycle materials; may dismantle framing, furring, insulation, and grid systems and prepare surfaces for new work.
- • Read demo plans and specs to determine removal methods and tools.
- • Measure and mark cut lines with tape measures, straightedges, and markers.
- • Locate and verify utilities; shut off circuits per lockout/tagout.
- • Remove trim, corner beads, and accessories to expose drywall edges.
- • Score, cut, and strip drywall from wood or metal framing.
- • Extract screws, nails, and fasteners; break adhesive bonds as needed.
- • Cut around outlets, vents, and plumbing to free panels safely.
- • Take down ceiling drywall using lifts or scaffolds; control drop zones.
- • Remove acoustical tiles and sound-absorbing panels for disposal or salvage.
- • Dismantle ceiling grids, hanger wires, and angle or channel irons.
- • Detach metal or wood studs, furring, and channels when in scope.
- • Strip rockboard, metal, or wood lath from walls and ceilings.
- • Remove insulation and vapor barriers; bag and label materials.
- • Scrape adhesives and mastic; pull remaining nails, screws, and staples.
- • Set up containment, plastic sheeting, and negative air for dust control.
- • Use HEPA vacuums and wet methods to minimize dust.
- • Sort, stack, and stage debris; load dumpsters; recycle materials.
- • Inspect exposed framing and substrates; report damage or moisture.
- • Cap or protect exposed utilities and openings after removal.
- • Coordinate sequencing and handoffs with installers and other trades.
- • Maintain tools and equipment; replace blades and bits.
- • Follow safety procedures, PPE, fall protection, and respirator use.
- • Keep work areas clean and compliant with site rules.
- • Remove plaster, paneling, or tile as directed with hand and power tools.
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
