Tips for applying repair compounds
A few helpful tips about applying repair compounds:
- Joint compound, lightweight spackling compound and spackling compound each have their own texture and consistency. Experimenting with each repair compound will help you to find the right amount to load onto your 6” taping knife for application. You will likely find that it is easier to work with smaller amounts of lightweight spackling compound than spackling compound or joint compound.
- A flexible blade putty knife or a flexible blade 4” taping knife can be used to apply repair compounds into small or tight spaces.
- Humid conditions will lengthen repair compound drying times. Allow compounds to dry before re-coating or sanding.
- Repair compounds often shrink between coats. Lightweight spackling compound shrinks the least, if at all, while joint compound shrinks the most. To compensate for shrinkage, and to allow for sanding, it is acceptable to apply a little extra repair compound to fill a hole or indentation past “flush.” Careful sanding will bring the repair flush to the surface.
- The application of excessive thicknesses of joint compound or spackling compound in one coat will result in cracking of the applied material during drying. Avoid excessive applications and follow directions concerning the layering of deep fills.
Detailed information about interior house painting surface preparation can be found in the book:
The Homeowner's Guide to Surface Preparation for Interior House Painting.
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