I needed to tape and coat this ceiling with 6 sheets of 4 x 12 drywall. I wanted to fast track it and get it done quickly. Here how I did it...with some beginner tips so you can do it as well.
Transcript:
Drywall Tape and Finish a Ceiling in 4 Hours
Okay, so today we're going to start a small project. It's a ceiling that has two recessed seams in it and three butt joints. We're going to show you how we'll fast-track this process using mesh tape and Durabond. After that, we'll get the first coat on, get it bedded in, fill the recess, apply a double coat to the butt joints, and then get ready for another coat tomorrow. But today, we'll start by demonstrating how to prep the joints, apply mesh tape, and bed it in with Durabond.
Prepping Butt Joints
To prep these butt joints, we need to ensure that any loose paper is removed. Often, I'll cut a small V groove in the butt joints, which helps eliminate loose paper and prevents blistering under the tape. Using a knife, I trim the loose paper and a bit of the drywall to create a V groove. This ensures that the butt joint is properly prepped.
Prepping the Ceiling
Additionally, I need to prep the rest of the ceiling for taping and finishing. There's a problematic spot in the drywall, so I've already removed a portion of it. I'll cut it further to clean it up and remove loose paper. I'll then fill the gap using Durabond, which will require a bit of mixing. I'll demonstrate how to pre-fill these areas.
Mixing the Mud
For the Durabond 90, I'll use a white pail to mix a specific portion of mud. I'll start by adding about 48 ounces of water to the pail, and then I'll dry it out to prevent the powder from sticking to the sides. Gradually, I'll add the Durabond powder while mixing it until I achieve the desired consistency. This consistency should be workable but not too thin.
Applying Mesh Tape to Butt Joints and Factory Edges
Now, let's begin applying the mesh tape. First, I'll show you how I handle butt joints. I spread a thin layer of mud on the corner and then spread it using a six-inch knife, maintaining steady pressure. To fill the recess, I use an eight-inch knife to smooth it out without wiping all the mud away. This method minimizes the need for additional coats.
For factory edges, the process is similar. I use the six-inch knife to spread mud along the edge and then use the eight-inch knife to feather out the edges and create a smooth surface.
Bedding Mesh Tape
Now, it's time to apply the Durabond to bed the mesh tape. I typically use a pan instead of a hawk for convenience. I spread mud on the tape using the six-inch knife, and then I use the eight-inch knife to clean it up, ensuring the recess is properly filled.
Fast-Tracking Butt Joints
When dealing with butt joints, I use the same technique. I spread mud on the joint and then use the eight-inch knife to create a smooth surface. This method helps expedite the process while maintaining quality.
Conclusion
So, we've completed all the butt joints and seams. For today, we'll let everything dry and set up. When I return, I'll apply additional coats to the butt joints and screws to ensure a well-finished ceiling. This method allows me to complete the project a day or two earlier than using regular taping mud. Fast-tracking with Durabond is a reliable approach.