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How To

How to Use Joint Compound

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(33 Ratings)
Use Joint Compound
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.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Joint Knives
  • Drywall Joint Tape
  • Sandpaper
  • Sandpaper
  1. Step 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. Step 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. Step 3

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

  4. Step 4

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

  5. Step 5
     

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

  6. Step 6

    Let that layer dry.

  7. Step 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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