How Do Drywall Banjo's Work?
A drywall banjo, also called a banjo box, is a device drywall installers use to seal the seams where different drywall boards meet. You don't need a drywall banjo to cover seams with joint compound and paper tape, but it is a faster alternative than using hand tools, so many professional drywall finishers use banjos to save time. Does this Spark an idea?
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Preparation
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To set up the banjo, place it on a flat surface and open it up. Install a roll of paper drywall tape on the spindle. Thread the end of the tape through the section that will hold the joint compound and out the far side of the drywall banjo. Push the tape up against the interior of the joint compound section so that the bottom of the tape will rub against the joint compound before it emerges out the other side. Add your mixed joint compound to the banjo. How much joint compound you should add depends on the size of the banjo, but typically several large scoops with a 6-inch drywall knife will suffice.
Joint Compound
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Joint compound consistency affects how well the banjo coats the paper tape with joint compound. If the joint compound is too thick, the coverage might be spotty. If the joint compound is too thin, it will drip out of the banjo. Generally, premixed joint compound has a thick consistency, but you can add water to it if necessary. Your goal should be to achieve a consistency somewhat like pancake batter. If you're working on a ceiling, it might be best to go for a slightly thicker consistency, such as that of toothpaste.
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Function
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To use the banjo, pull the coated tape out the end. As it emerges, the joint compound will coat the tape. Remove the end of the tape if it is dry. Hold the banjo against the seam you wish to cover. Use one hand to hold the end of the coated tape on the seam. Pull the banjo across the seam to lay the tape. When the seam is covered, cut the tape to size. Use a 6-inch drywall knife to wipe away the excess joint compound and smooth the tape over the seam.
Considerations
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It takes time to get used to the movements a banjo requires, so practice on a spare piece of drywall before moving on to the actual project. Practice using different joint compound consistencies to find the mix that works best for your finishing style.
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