Mudding and taping drywall is a crucial step in finishing drywall installation. Done properly, it creates a seamless surface ready for priming and painting. However, for DIYers learning how to mud and tape drywall themselves, it can seem daunting. Have no fear! With the right materials, techniques, and a bit of patience, you can successfully mud and tape drywall and achieve professional-looking results.
Gather the Proper Materials
Before starting any drywall project, ensure you have all the necessary materials on hand. Trying to mud and tape without the proper tools will make the job much more difficult. Here is a list of must-have items:
- Drywall joint compound – Pre-mixed all-purpose joint compound is the easiest to work with for beginners. Avoid lightweight compounds as they are harder to work with.
- Joint tape – Paper tape is best for amateurs as it is the most forgiving. Fiberglass mesh tape requires more skill.
- Drywall knives – You’ll need a 4′′ knife, 6′′ knife, and 10′′ or 12′′ knife for embedding tape and smoothing compound.
- Drywall pan – Makes it easy to hold compound while working. Disposable plastic mud pans are convenient.
- Sanding pole and drywall sanding screens – Necessary between coats for a smooth finish.
- Taping knives – Helpful for applying compound to joints and embedding tape.
- Mud mixer – A drill attachment to mix up dry compound.
- Utility knife – For cutting drywall and tape.
- Taping tool – Makes applying tape quick and easy (optional).
- Dust mask – Protects lungs from drywall dust when sanding.
- Drop cloths – Keep the work area clean and collect dust.
- Spackle or drywall primer – For covering up tool marks, dents, and scratches.
- Low-adhesion painter’s tape (optional) – For crisp paint lines.
Before starting, clear the room and cover the floor with drop cloths. Apply painter’s tape along trim or ceilings for straight edges. Gather plenty of clean water and rags to keep tools clean. Now you’re ready to start mudding!
Prep the Drywall Surface
It’s impossible to create a smooth finish without a properly prepped drywall surface:
Fill all gaps and imperfections. Go over the drywall and fill any gaps, holes, or indentations with joint compound using a taping knife. Allow to fully dry before sanding smooth.
Sand rough edges. Lightly sand any high spots or bumps on the seams and knock down any pointy paper edges sticking out on the drywall surface.
Clean away dust. Wipe the walls with a slightly damp rag to remove all dust and debris left over from drywall installation.
Spot prime if needed. Use primer to seal any problem areas on the drywall, like bubbles or cracks, to stabilize the surface and prevent air bubbles when taping.
Now the drywall is ready for taping and mudding!
Apply Joint Tape Over Seams
Joint tape reinforces and strengthens the joints between drywall sheets. Here’s how to apply it correctly:
Load tape in applicator. For beginners, use a taping tool to apply tape quickly and accurately. Load the tape roll into the applicator and cut any creased tape at the end.
Apply thin layer of compound. Use a 4″ or 6” taping knife to apply a thin, even layer of joint compound over the seam about 2” wide.
Press in tape. Unroll the tape over the seam while gently pressing it into the fresh compound. Glide the taping knife over it to make it adhere.
Cover tape with compound. Using a 4” or 6” knife, apply a thin layer of compound over the embedded tape, just enough to cover it. Feather the edges.
Smooth with knife. Once dry, lightly sand any ridges or bumps. Then smooth another thin layer of compound over the tape with a wide knife to hide the tape.
Let dry and inspect. Allow compound to fully dry. Inspect for bubbles, cracks, or tears and re-tape any problem areas.
Repeat as needed. Build thin layers of compound over the tape until the seam is completely smooth and even with the wall surface.
Be patient and allow each layer to fully dry before applying the next. Rushing the process can lead to cracks and bubbles in the finish surface.
Mud and Tape Drywall Joints
Once the seams are taped, it’s time to reinforce the joints where sheets meet. Here are the steps:
Load tape in applicator. As with the seams, start by loading paper joint tape into an applicator tool.
Apply thin layer of compound. Use a 4” or 6” knife to spread a thin, uniform coat of compound over the joint, about 2-3” wide.
Embed tape into compound. Unroll the tape while pressing it into the fresh mud, centering it over the joint. Embed fully.
Cover with compound. Immediately apply another thin layer of compound over the tape with a taping knife to fully cover it. Feather the edges.
Apply second coat. Once dry, smooth a second thin coat of compound with a 6” or 10” knife to further hide the tape. Extend the compound several inches beyond the first coat.
Build layers as needed. Continue applying additional thin coats with wider knives, extending the compound further each time, until the joint is completely smooth.
Let dry fully. Give the compound time to dry thoroughly between coats. Sand smooth any ridges before moving to the next layer.
Inspect before priming. Scan joints for cracks, bubbles, or imperfections. Re-tape any problem areas and make repairs before priming.
Take your time with the joint taping process to create a flawless surface. Patience is key!
Mud and Tape Inside Corners
Applying tape to inside corners helps prevent future cracking around these high-stress areas. Follow these steps:
Pre-fold tape. To get tape to adhere into the corner, pre-crease paper joint tape down the middle with a taping knife.
Apply thin mud layer. Use a 4” knife to apply a thin, uniform layer of compound to one side of the inside corner.
Embed pre-folded tape. Press the pre-creased tape firmly into the corner over the fresh mud. The center crease should open up.
Cover tape with mud. Apply a thin coat of compound over the embedded tape with a 4” knife to fully cover it.
Build layers. Apply progressively wider coats of compound over the tape to form a smooth corner, letting each layer dry fully before the next.
Fill corner. If needed, apply a final thin layer with a 12” knife to fill in the inside corner and make it flush with the rest of the wall.
Pro tip: For easier application on inside corners, try using fiberglass mesh joint tape instead of paper.
Finish Outside Corners
Finishing the outer corners where walls meet provides a professional touch:
Apply corner bead. First, install corner bead – perforated metal or plastic edging – over outside corners using joint compound. This strengthens the corners.
Embed tape over bead. Next, cut paper tape to length and embed it over the corner bead using compound and a taping knife. Cover fully.
Apply corner finish. Build up layers of compound over the corner, extending the coat beyond the previous layer each time. Feather out edges.
Fill taper. Apply a final coat with a 10” or 12” knife to create a nice, symmetrical rounded or tapered edge.
Sand between coats. Lightly sand each coat as it dries to maintain a smooth surface and prevent ridges.
Take care to keep edges straight and smooth when finishing outside corners.
Second Coat/ Skim Coat Application
Once taping is complete, the taped joints and seams need a second coat or “skim coat” of joint compound to hide any imperfections:
Let tape dry. Allow taped areas to fully dry before attempting to skim coat, typically 24 hours.
Sand if needed. Gently sand any ridges or uneven areas on the taped joints. Avoid sanding down to the actual tape.
Mix compound. Thin premixed joint compound with a bit of water so it spreads easily without dragging. Follow manufacturer’s directions.
Apply thin coat. Working in sections, use a 10” or 12” knife to smoothly apply a thin skim coat over all taped joints and fastener heads.
Feather edges. Pull the compound 2 to 4 inches beyond the seams, feathering out the edges to create a seamless appearance.
Spot fill as needed. Use compound to fill any remaining voids, depressions, or irregular spots to create a flat surface.
Sand lightly. Once dry, do a light sanding to remove any minor high spots or tool marks. Avoid excessive sanding.
Prime before painting. Spot prime after final sanding and before painting for best results.
Be sure to properly prepare the surface before applying the finish skim coat. Taking the time to do this will help hide all imperfections.
Sand Between Coats
Proper sanding is crucial for achieving a smooth surface when taping and mudding drywall:
Let compound dry fully. Each coat needs to dry completely before sanding or you can create dips and ridges in the surface. Wait at least 24 hours.
Use proper grit sandpaper. Start with 120 or 150 grit sandpaper for the first coat between taping and skim coating. Use finer 180 or 220 grit for final coat.
Sand by hand. Only sand by hand using a sanding block or pole sander. Power sanders can damage the soft joint compound.
Work in circular motions. Use light, circular motions to blend the taped areas evenly into the drywall surface. Avoid aggressive sanding.
Clean surface. Carefully wipe away all dust between coats using a damp rag or tack cloth. Remaining dust creates flaws.
Spot prime as needed. Lightly apply primer to any porous areas that show white after sanding to prevent air bubbles in finish coats.
With the proper sanding techniques, you can achieve an ultra-smooth surface ready for painting. Don’t cut corners here!
Avoid Common Drywall Mudding Mistakes
When learning how to tape and mud drywall, it’s easy for beginners to make certain mistakes. Being aware of potential pitfalls will help you avoid them:
- Rushing the drying times – This causes cracks and peeling. Allow sufficient time between coats.
- Applying coats too thick – Thin coats dry faster and create a smoother finish.
- Overworking the compound – Excessive smoothing creates indentations and tool marks.
- Sanding too aggressively – Light, circular motions prevent sanding down to the tape.
- Leaving high spots/ridges – Carefully sand out any imperfections before the next coat.
- Not feathering edges enough – Well-feathered edges prevent compound buildup.
- Not cleaning dust before recoating – Dust sticks in tacky compound causing flaws.
- Using lightweight compound – It’s harder to work with. Stick to all-purpose or topping compound.
- Applying finish coat too soon – Joints may still be drying and can crack.
Patience and proper techniques will help you avoid these common mistakes on your drywall project.
FAQs About DIY Drywall Mudding and Taping
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about taping and mudding drywall yourself:
What is the ideal temperature to mud and tape drywall?
The ideal temperature is between 50-90°F. Extreme cold or heat causes the compound to dry too quickly or too slowly, making it difficult to work with.
How long does joint compound need to dry between coats?
In general, allow 24 hours between coats. Cooler temperatures require longer drying times. Check that surfaces are hard before recoating.
Should I use fiberglass mesh or paper drywall tape?
Paper tape is more forgiving and better for DIYers. Fiberglass mesh takes more skill to use well. It can show imperfections easier.
How many coats of joint compound are needed when taping?
Typically it takes two coats over seams and three coats over corner bead and fastener heads for a smooth finish.
Can pre-mixed drywall compound be re-wet after drying?
No, trying to rehydrate dried-out premixed compound creates a weak finish prone to cracking. Always mix fresh batches.
What grit sandpaper should be used between coats?
Use medium 120-150 grit paper after the taping or first coat. Use fine 180+ grit paper after the final skim coat.
Should I use a drywall sander or sand by hand?
Always hand sand when taping drywall to avoid over-sanding. Power sanders remove too much compound.
Do I need to use primer before painting new drywall?
Priming creates a uniform surface for paint to adhere to for a professional look. Use drywall primer or PVA primer.
How long should I wait to paint after mudding drywall?
You should wait at least 24 hours after applying the final skim coat or spot repairs before painting for proper curing.
Tips for DIY Drywall Mudding Success
Here are some pro tips to help ensure success taping and mudding drywall yourself:
- Work in small sections so compound doesn’t dry out before applying. Throw out any stiffened compound rather than trying to re-wet it.
- Keep tools clean by rinsing often in water. Built up dried compound on knives causes uneven finishes.
- Store any leftover premixed compound in sealed containers and use within a few weeks before it loses effectiveness.
- Load knives evenly from end to end to maintain even pressure and avoid ridges. Hold knife at a 45° angle, pressing just hard enough to smooth but not gouge compound.
- To create perfectly tapered outside corners, cut an angled crease into the side of the finishing knife using another knife. Run this edge along the corner when applying the final coat.
- Wearing a head lamp when taping drywall allows you to easily spot and smooth imperfections in the surface. The angled lighting shows flaws.
- Lightly sweep or vacuum the walls before final sanding to remove any fine dust that can get trapped under the final skim coat.
- Apply painter’s tape along the edges of trim or ceilings after the final coat dries to create super crisp paint lines. Pull it after priming but before painting.
- To repair minor nail pops or dents after priming the finished walls, use spackle paste and a putty knife to fill the holes. Smooth flush and spot prime.
Follow these tips and with some patience and practice, you can achieve seamless, professional looking mud and tape drywall results!
Conclusion
Taping and mudding drywall is an essential process for achieving smooth finished walls ready for paint or wallpaper. While it takes some skill, with the right materials and techniques, even novice DIYers can learn how to successfully mud and tape drywall themselves. Paying close attention to the surface preparation, applying thin consistent coats, allowing proper drying time between steps, keeping tools clean, and sanding properly are all critical to producing quality results. Avoiding common beginner mistakes like overworking the compound or rushing through steps also helps create a flawless drywall finish. Follow the recommendations outlined above and don’t be intimidated – you can tackle drywall finishing with confidence!