How to Use Joint Compound

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Use Joint Compound

Joint compound does what its name implies - it fills joints between drywall. Here's how to use it correctly, as well as a few tips on other helpful uses for this stuff. Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

  • Joint Knives
  • Drywall Joint Tape
  • Sandpaper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Finish a drywall joint by applying joint compound directly to the joint with a joint knife. The layer should be about 1/8 inch thick.

    • 2

      Smooth a strip of joint tape over the area. (Tape with adhesive doesn't require the first layer of joint compound.) Press the tape down firmly with a joint knife, squeezing out air bubbles and excess compound.

    • 3

      Let it dry. This could take up to 24 hours.

    • 4

      Sand any areas that poke up and cut off any tape that sticks out or has obvious bubbles under it.

    • 5

      Apply a thin coat of joint compound about 6 inches wide over the taped area.

    • 6

      Let that layer dry.

    • 7

      Sand the compound down so it's smooth and flat.

Tips & Warnings

  • Joint compound can also be used to fill knotholes and deep dents in wood that will be painted.

  • Patch a hole in a finished wall with a little bit of joint compound and some joint tape. (See "How to Patch a Hole in Drywall" under Related eHows.)

  • Repair a missing piece of plaster with a gob of joint compound. Let it dry completely and sand it down to the needed shape.

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