Drywall Cost in Ontario, per Square Foot: Hanging, Taping and Finish Levels
Drywall in Ontario typically costs $2–$4 per square foot to hang and finish, or $1–$3 per square foot for taping and mudding alone. A 12×12 room runs $800–$2,500, and drywalling a 1,000 sq ft basement $3,000–$7,000. Small patches cost $100–$300 each. Drywallers who bill by the hour charge $50–$80, and a smooth Level 5 finish costs $3–$6 per square foot.
ProScore estimate, figures as of February 24, 2026. Ontario-wide ranges compiled by ProScore — not measured from ProScore listings, contractor quotes, or a pricing survey.
Quick Cost Summary
| Service | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Drywall Install & Finish (per sq ft) | $2 | $4 |
| Full Room (12x12) | $800 | $2,500 |
| Basement Finish (1,000 sq ft) | $3,000 | $7,000 |
| Ceiling Repair | $200 | $500 |
| Taping & Mudding Only | $1 | $3 |
| Patch/Hole Repair | $100 | $300 |
| Popcorn Ceiling Removal | $2 | $4 |
| Level 5 Finish (smooth walls) | $3 | $6 |
| Moisture-Resistant Board Upgrade | $0.50 | $1 |
| Insulation (before drywall) | $1 | $2 |
ProScore estimate, figures as of February 24, 2026. Ontario-wide ranges compiled by ProScore — not measured from ProScore listings, contractor quotes, or a pricing survey.
How Ontario drywallers compare on ProScore
ProScore lists 311 drywallers in Ontario, and has published a ProScore for 262 of them. 132 of those reach Trusted (70+) or higher. Google stars alone do not separate them: 209 of the 262 scored average 4.5 stars or higher on Google, but only 132 reach Trusted on ProScore.
Counted from ProScore's current listings, refreshed daily. How ProScore scores
Fees, rebates and rules from official sources
- Job Bank puts the median wage of a drywall installer and finisher in Ontario at $35.48 an hour (low $24.00, high $48.73; 2023–2024). That is the wage the worker is paid, not the rate a business bills. Government of Canada, Job Bank
- Statistics Canada's renovation price index for interior additions and remodels rose 0.2% in Toronto in the year to the second quarter of 2026. Statistics Canada
- Ontario's labour ministry says asbestos can be found in buildings built in Canada, especially before 1986, and lists drywall compound among its most common sources. Before a project, section 30 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act requires the owner — including the owner of a home who undertakes a project — to determine whether asbestos is present, list it, and make sure the contractor has that list before signing a contract. Government of Ontario
What Affects the Cost?
Finish Level
Level 3 (standard) is cheapest. Level 5 (perfectly smooth for paint) costs nearly double due to extra sanding and skim coating.
Height & Access
Standard 8-foot ceilings are straightforward. Vaulted ceilings or stairwells require scaffolding and significantly more labour.
Moisture-Resistant Board
Bathrooms and basements need moisture-resistant (green board) or mould-resistant drywall, adding $0.50–$1 per sq ft.
Insulation
If walls need insulation before drywalling (common in basements), budget an additional $1–$2 per sq ft.
Licensing in Ontario
Ontario does not require a specific licence for drywall work, but reputable contractors carry liability insurance and WSIB coverage. For basement finishes, ensure building permits are pulled.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to drywall a basement?
A typical 1,000 sq ft basement runs $3,000–$7,000 for drywall install and finish, depending on the finish level and complexity.
How long does drywall take to finish?
A standard room takes 2–3 days: one day to hang, 2–3 coats of mud over a few days, then sanding. Larger projects take 1–2 weeks.
Should I DIY drywall?
Hanging is doable for DIYers, but taping and mudding to a smooth finish is a skill that takes years to master. Most homeowners save money long-term by hiring a pro.
What is Level 5 finish?
Level 5 is a skim coat over the entire surface for a perfectly smooth wall. It is needed for glossy paints or areas with strong raking light.
Disclaimer: All prices shown are ProScore estimates for Ontario, figures as of February 24, 2026. They are not drawn from ProScore listings, contractor quotes, or a pricing survey. Actual costs vary based on job complexity, location, materials, and contractor. Always get 2–3 written quotes from professionals before committing. ProScore is not responsible for pricing accuracy — use these figures as a starting point for budgeting.
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Sources
- Government of Canada, Job Bank, Drywall installer and finisher in Ontario: wages (2023–2024 wages, updated November 19, 2025). Accessed October 19, 2026.
- Statistics Canada, Residential renovation price indexes, percentage change, quarterly (table 18-10-0286-02) (Second quarter 2026, released August 7, 2026). Accessed October 19, 2026.
- Government of Ontario, Asbestos in the workplace (Updated November 9, 2023). Accessed October 19, 2026.
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