DIY Network

Drywall: Taping Drywall Joints From "DIY Tools & Techniques" episode DIT-235

Host David Thiel offers tips on finishing drywall joints.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F

Drywall tape is a very important part of finishing drywall because it acts as reinforcement of the seams.

There are two kinds of drywall tape; fiberglass and paper tape.

• Fiberglass tape (figure A) is used primarily for patching holes in drywall. It has an adhesive on one side to help it stick to the wall.

• Paper tape (figure B) will work with either type of drywall mud.

Applying paper tape:

1. Prepare the surface by spreading drywall compound over the entire seam so that there are no dry spots. This is called bedding.

   Tip: when you see a bubble in drywall, it was caused by a dry spot. If the spot is dry when the tape's applied, it will not stick. Use a utility knife to cut out the bubble without having to remove the entire piece of tape.

2. Apply the tape to the wall over the joint compound. There's a tapered area at the joint (figure C) where the taping should be done.

3. Run your knife along the tape. The tape should stick to the wall.

4. Let dry, then apply a second coat of joint compound (figure D). This is called the fill coat.

5. Again, let dry and apply a third coat of compound with a larger knife. This is called a skim coat.

6. When dry, the area is ready for sanding. The surface should be completely smooth.

Applying compound to corners:

Metal or paper covers are available for corners. They're application is similar to regular joint tape.

1. Apply a layer of joint compound to each side of the corner (figure E).

2. Press on the corner cover using your fingers.

3. Then, run the knife over the joint to smooth.

4. Allow 12-24 hours to dry before applying the next coat.

   Note: there are covers available for both inside and outside corners (figure F).

RESOURCES :

US Gypsum Company
Phone: 800-USG4YOU

GUESTS :

Cameron Kemp
US Gypsum Company
Phone: 800-874-8870 ext: 6538