Drywall

Article Tools

Image Gallery

Print

E-mail

Comments

RSS

All the dimples and fastener depressions can be filled with the 6" joint knife. First check to make sure that the heads are seated correctly by drawing a clean knife over each spot. A tinny ring signals a high fastener, which should be sunk below the surface.

Make the initial fill by holding the loaded blade nearly flat to the panel as you draw it across the dimple. Then raise the knife to a steep pitch and scrape across the first stroke with a second lick at a right angle. After drying, the patch can be smoothed over with a final application.

It's unlikely that you can avoid sanding altogether, so be sure to do it safely and carefully. Wear a dust mask and glasses, and try to work over a broad surface. Use several layers of folded sandpaper, a padded block, or a damp sanding sponge if you wish, and wipe excess powder away with a damp cloth.

Be prepared to refill some spots you may have missed, and of course, to resand them as well.

Sealed and Delivered

Before putting away your tools and the bucket of compound for good, make a final inspection of all the wall and ceiling surfaces. Once you're satisfied, clean the sides and lid of the container, and level the compound in the bucket with a knife, before snapping the lid on tight. Then wash your tools and mud pan in warm, soapy water.

All the drywall work must be sealed with a latex sealer/primer coat before any paint is applied. The sealer levels the finish, blends the patches with the paper face, and protects the whole surface against moisture and dirt particles.

A latex-based primer is the best choice because it's compatible with most finish paints and will not raise the fibers in the drywall. For the smoothest base, use a shortnapped quality roller. Be sure to paint before you put the trim on-the job will go much faster.

Few people actually enjoy drywall work. But those that put up with it have to admit that the job gets almost easy when they hang on to their patience and do it by the numbers.

Plan your layout so the joints are supported by framing members.

THE STUD-SCRAP DRYWALL JACK

IF YOU CONSIDER THAT A 4 X 12 ' sheet of 5/a" drywall weighs 110 pounds, you may have second thoughts about lifting a dozen or more panels overhead and placing them accurately as well. A few good friends will make the job go faster, but a dryw all jack will let you work independently and at your own pace.

A jack (unlike some friends) won't get frustrated and go home-it just lifts each board to the ceiling and holds it there until you've driven in the fasteners. This jack, designed by staffer Dennis Burkholder and built in MOTHER'S research facility, was meant to be made quickly from random 2 X 4 scraps-none more than 4' long-and such common hardware as door hinges, pulleys, and plumbing parts.

RSS | Comments | E-mail | Print