my Old Workshop

Drywall taping and finishing tips

Dry pieces of drywall compound (“mud”) cause problems, so scoop mud with a clean trowel… or keep a scoop in the container and the lid on. Scrape the side of the pail constantly. At the end of the day, lay plastic wrap directly on the mud, and pour a cup or two of water on it before replacing the lid.

Keep the room fairly warm, and make sure each coat is dry before applying another.

Drywall blades are curved to allow you to apply pressure on the outside. Make sure you position them properly, cupping the seam with outside edges touching either side. Apply enough pressure to feather the edges, leaving less sanding for later.

In a pro job, the main purpose of sanding is to rough up the slick compound so the texture matches that on the walls. Try not to overdo your mud, and you may only need to sand the final coat.

Use 150 or 220 grit sandpaper, or use a drywall screen and a pole sander to reach further and keep yourself far from the dust. Speaking of dust, drywall creates a lot. Wear a mask, seal all openings to the rest of the house, and cover any furniture with dropcloths or tarp.

If you keep mud to a minimum, you may be able to avoid dust altogether. Use a special drywall sponge to feather edges and smooth minor flaws. Dip it in water, squeeze it out, and use it like a sanding block, being careful not to soak the drywall paper.

Paint shows up flaws. After a coat of primer, walk around with a light and sand or fill as necessary. (Make sure you prime any new compound.)