The Art of Drywall Taping
Tuesday, 17 November 2009 09:17 | 
Written by Anthony Bidiforu |
If you're in the process of improving your home, there's a good chance you'll need to learn to tape drywall. It can be a pretty intimidating process if you don't know what you're doing, but it's really extremely easy. Even kids can manage to tape drywall successfully. Here's a look at all the drywall supplies and techniques you'll need to do the job right.
If you're in the process of improving your home, there's a good chance you'll need to learn to tape drywall. It can be a pretty intimidating process if you don't know what you're doing, but it's really extremely easy. Even kids can manage to tape drywall successfully. Here's a look at all the drywall supplies and techniques you'll need to do the job right.
Keep in mind however, that the taping process isn't fast. No, it's not difficult, but sometimes hanging the actual drywall sheets takes a lot less time. If you do tape off your room however, you will appear to be much more professional, and you'll be able to get rid of issues within the wall. Now if you don't believe you can do this, then see about hiring a professional. Better safe than sorry, as they say.
So what kind of drywall supplies will you need? Well you're going to need joint compound, that's for sure. You will also need a drywall knife and some grit sandpaper. This will help with the finishing, though larger projects will require an electric sander.
Step one of the process involves applying compound over every joint in the drywall. This is usually done in three layers. Allow the compound to completely dry between layers, and sand it smooth before applying another one. It's generally a good idea to apply the compound as smoothly and evenly as you can.
Yes, you can sand it down later, however isn't that an utter waste of material? Experts will not need to do any sanding, though being a beginner you probably won't achieve results like that. In any case, make sure that you do the best you can.
When you have finished sanding, then the time has come to tape. Now as you've probably figured out, you won't be able to see the joints clearly because they are covered in compound. You'll just have to do your best, and remember that the tape can be moved so long as the compound is wet.
Once you've put the tape on, smooth the tape with your knife. The excess compound will be squeezed out from under the edges of the tape, and can be removed from the knife. Finish by spreading a very thin layer of mud on top of the tape, You should be able to see the tape through it. Once everything is dry, use your sandpaper to smooth any bumps or rough edges. Start with the coarse paper, then blend the joint into the wall with the fine paper for a professional look.
Doing your own drywall taping is remarkably easy, once you get used to it. Take the time to learn how to do it, and you'll have great looking, professional walls without hiring a contractor.
If you're in the process of improving your home, there's a good chance you'll need to learn to tape drywall. It can be a pretty intimidating process if you don't know what you're doing, but it's really extremely easy. Even kids can manage to tape drywall successfully. Here's a look at all the drywall supplies and techniques you'll need to do the job right.
Keep in mind however, that the taping process isn't fast. No, it's not difficult, but sometimes hanging the actual drywall sheets takes a lot less time. If you do tape off your room however, you will appear to be much more professional, and you'll be able to get rid of issues within the wall. Now if you don't believe you can do this, then see about hiring a professional. Better safe than sorry, as they say.
So what kind of drywall supplies will you need? Well you're going to need joint compound, that's for sure. You will also need a drywall knife and some grit sandpaper. This will help with the finishing, though larger projects will require an electric sander.
Step one of the process involves applying compound over every joint in the drywall. This is usually done in three layers. Allow the compound to completely dry between layers, and sand it smooth before applying another one. It's generally a good idea to apply the compound as smoothly and evenly as you can.
Yes, you can sand it down later, however isn't that an utter waste of material? Experts will not need to do any sanding, though being a beginner you probably won't achieve results like that. In any case, make sure that you do the best you can.
When you have finished sanding, then the time has come to tape. Now as you've probably figured out, you won't be able to see the joints clearly because they are covered in compound. You'll just have to do your best, and remember that the tape can be moved so long as the compound is wet.
Once you've put the tape on, smooth the tape with your knife. The excess compound will be squeezed out from under the edges of the tape, and can be removed from the knife. Finish by spreading a very thin layer of mud on top of the tape, You should be able to see the tape through it. Once everything is dry, use your sandpaper to smooth any bumps or rough edges. Start with the coarse paper, then blend the joint into the wall with the fine paper for a professional look.
Doing your own drywall taping is remarkably easy, once you get used to it. Take the time to learn how to do it, and you'll have great looking, professional walls without hiring a contractor.
About the Author:
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