Drywall joint compound, better known as drywall mud, is used to seal seams and cracks as well as to cover the screws that are used to mount drywall sheets. If drywall mud is too moist or too rough, it can be difficult to get paint to stick to it properly while trying to paint a room. If you take the time to properly sand drywall mud and allow it enough time to dry, however, painting drywall can be as easy as painting any other material.
Instructions
Applying the Mud
1. Mix the drywall mud you will use thoroughly with a power mixer to ensure uniform consistency.
2. Cover the joints and screw heads with a liberal amount of mud using the taping knife or putty knife.
3. Apply the drywall tape on every seam over the mud, pressing it firmly in place. Use the taping knife to apply a second layer of mud. Allow the mud to set up for one hour.
4. Use a damp sponge to smooth the mud you applied, gently removing any rough or thick areas. Let the drywall mud dry completely.
Sanding and Painting
5. Using an electric sander on a low speed, sand the dry mud down to the level of the wall.
6. Mix and apply more mud over the seams already sanded, allowing it to dry completely. This will help to ensure that the mud thoroughly fills the seams.
7. Sand again, using a finer grade of sandpaper on the sander. Once you have finished sanding, apply another layer of mud, and allow it to dry.
8. Use a very fine-grit sandpaper, and sand the mud even with the wall again. Use an industrial vacuum, broom, and damp sponge to clean the dust from the walls and the rest of the room where you will be painting.
9. Mix your paint and begin painting as normal. So long as you have removed the dust and given the mud sufficient time to dry between sandings, you should have no trouble with the paint applying smoothly to the drywall and the joint compound.
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