Dry liner
Put up internal walls and ceilings to re-shape a room, change ceiling heights, hide pipes and wiring or improve insulation.
Also known as: drywaller, ames taper
About the job
What it's like
As a dryliner you'll put up internal walls or ceilings with plasterboard. You'll do this to:
divide a room or create new rooms
lower or raise ceilings
hide pipes and wiring
improve insulation
improve a room’s acoustics, or
smooth out uneven walls during renovation work
You’ll build the internal walls in houses, offices and shops using plasterboard panels. You may also install removable wall partitions, suspended ceilings and raised flooring.
Your tasks might include:
following technical diagrams to measure and cut the plasterboard to the right sizes and angles
fixing the panels to timber or metal frames - or ceiling joists - using special studs
cutting panels around doorways or windows
sealing joints with filler or adhesive and taping over the seal
applying a thin layer of plaster over the tape (skimming)
sanding the walls, ready for a painter and decorator
Physical fitness and the ability to work with your hands are essential. You’ll also need to follow building regulations, work safely and be a team player.
It can be really rewarding when you transform a space for a client, using your skills and hard work.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
GoConstruct – resources for anyone looking for a career in the construction and built environment sector
Finishes and Interiors sector – news about the sector, from a recognised trade body
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- time management
- managing resources
- implementing ideas
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- observation
- working with numbers
- verbal communication
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Practical Craft Skills
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Skills for Work: Practical Experiences: Construction and Engineering
Through work
You can become a dryliner through applying directly with an employer or getting an entry-level job as a dryliner's mate and working your way up. You can use the My World of Work job search to look for job vacancies.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you secure a job as a dryliner. Useful subjects include:
Construction or Construction Management
Built Environment
Architectural Technology
Building Services Engineering
Use My World of Work's course search to find courses.
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in Construction.
Qualifications that demonstrate an understanding of construction and practical skills, such as Skills for Work Construction Engineering (SCQF Level 3) or Construction Crafts (SCQF Level 4/5).
Relevant work-based experience such as dry liners' assistant.
A driving licence can be useful.
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