Finish drywall joints

1.1. For standard compound, pour drywall mixture into a pail and add water following the manufacturer instructions. For premixed drywall compound, simply add a small amount of water to the compound. Do not add too much.

1.2. Whip up the mixture with a drywall mixing tool and power drill to the consistency of porridge or icing. Do this slowly. It must be free of lumps and containing no air bubbles.

1.3. Scoop large dollop of drywall compound on the drywall hawk. This tool allows the compound to be available at the level and area where needed.

2.1. Fill the hole with compound

2.2. Level with the knife

3.1. Pull a narrow row of drywall compound from top to bottom with a 6" putty knife starting on one side of the corner. Repeat on the other side.

3.2. Remove a length of paper drywall tape the length of the corner height and fold it in half along its factory-made crease.

3.3. Press the tape into the corner starting at the top making sure that the tape is even on both sides of the corner.

3.4. Place one edge of the blade about 1/2" from inside corner of each side and squeeze out the excess compound from underneath.

3.5. Pull drywall compound over the tape down each side of the corner in one, continuous stroke.

3.6. Remove the excess compound by feathering out the edges.

4.1. Install either metal bead with screws or nails every 6". Use a level or plumb line to make sure that both sides are of the bead are equal.

4.2. To set plastic corner bead, including the bull nose type, tap it with a rubber mallet so that the bead's teeth sink into the drywall. If the plastic does not have setting teeth use a screw or nails making sure that the edge is plumb.

4.3. Apply joint compound with a trowel so that the trowel is flush with the metal or edge of the corner bead. There should be no need to feather as the compound will fill the spaces evenly. Let dry.

4.4. Sand with paper between 120 and 320 grit using a firm sanding block or specialized drywall finishing tool. Now feather the joint to achieve seamless corners.

5.1. Use the 6" putty knife to spread a thin coat of compound about 3" wide on all the joints.

5.2. Press firmly and evenly making sure that the compound is right down to the stud.

6.1. Measure the length of the joint and cut a piece of drywall tape to match. To save time hold the tape roll while pressing it onto the mudded joint.

6.2. Press the tape into place over the fresh compound.

6.3. Hold the tape in place with one hand and pull the taping knife over the tape to set it into place. Remove the excess compound by feathering out the edges with the putty knife. Remember that all excess must be sanded.

6.4. Apply another thin layer of drywall compound to cover the tape and fill each nail or screw head.

6.5. Let the compound dry overnight. The drying time depends on the type of drywall compound used.

6.6. Clean all the tools and return the lid back to the mud bucket.

 

7.1. Before applying the second coat, remove any large build ups of compound over the entire wall with you drywall knife.

7.2. Lightly sand the tape coating being careful not to rub through to the paper.

7.3. Vacuum the dust before continuing, Use a particle mask for protection.

7.4. Spread on the second coat with the 8" drywall knife so the edges of the joints are feathered out. Let dry and sand.

8.1. Apply third coat with a 10" knife to widen the job for a more professional job.

9.1. Sand all excess compound and rough spots using a fine (100 or 120 grit) sandpaper.

9.2. Clean the surface using a fine broom or shop vacuum cleaner.

9.3. Wipe the surface with a damp cloth or sponge to eliminate any residual dust before applying base paint.

9.4. Seal the walls with a good quality primer/sealer paint.