Drywall photo by DoneDaddy.P7: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bonedaddy/2940783890/
Drywall is a series of gypsum panels that are nailed or screwed to a wooden frame. Drywall comes in thicknesses of 1/4 to 5/8 inches. Once the drywall is hung it needs to be finished. This is a process of taping and plastering the flaws in the drywall. The plaster to use for this process is drywall compound, which is like a form of mud. The goal is to make the wall look and function like one continuous surface.
Instructions
1. Stir the drywall compound until it is soft. Keep the compound moist by only taking out what you will use in 5 minutes. Reseal the container to keep it from drying out.
2. Apply the compound to the joints, cracks, nail heads, screw heads, and any dings in the drywall. Use a flat-bladed plaster knife to push the drywall compound into these areas. Do not undercoat the areas needing to be fixed.
3. Scrape the plastered areas with the flat edge of the knife to remove excess compound. Leave it raised up a bit.
4. Tape the seams between the drywall panels. Spread some fresh compound along the seams and place paper tape over the top of the compound. Use the plaster knife to push out the lumps and excess plaster from beneath the tape.
5. Let the drywall compound dry for a day. Sand the drywall compound with heavy grit sandpaper until smooth and even with the rest of the drywall panel.
6. Wipe off the drywall with a damp soft cloth to clear the dust from the walls.
7. Check for any spots that need to have drywall compound reapplied. Dry and sand between coats of drywall compound. Try to create a smooth finish ready for painting.
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