Best Way To Put Spacle In Corners Of Drywall

The Best Ways to Finish Drywall Corners: Achieving a Professional Look

Getting those inside and outside corners looking perfect is crucial for a professional-looking drywall finish. A poorly finished corner can detract from even the most beautiful paint job. This guide will walk you through the best techniques for achieving flawlessly smooth and straight drywall corners, whether you're tackling an interior or exterior angle. We'll cover everything from choosing the right tools to mastering the finishing techniques.

Why Corner Finishing Matters: Neatly finished corners aren't just aesthetically pleasing; they also protect the edges of your drywall from damage and chipping, ensuring a longer-lasting, more durable finish.

Tools You'll Need:

Before you begin, gather these essential tools:

• Drywall Tape: Use either paper tape or fiberglass mesh tape. Fiberglass is more durable and resists cracking, particularly in high-stress areas.
• Joint Compound (Mud): All-purpose joint compound is suitable for most applications. Lightweight compound is easier to work with, especially for beginners.
• Putty Knife: You'll need at least a 6-inch and an 8-inch knife, and a wider knife (12 inches or larger) for the final coats.
• Corner Tool (Optional but Highly Recommended): These tools, also known as corner rollers, are essential for creating perfectly straight inside corners. They come in various sizes to accommodate different corner widths.
• Sanding Block or Sander: Essential for achieving a smooth, even finish. A sanding sponge is also useful for getting into tight corners.
• Utility Knife: For cutting drywall tape to size.
• Bucket and Water: For mixing the joint compound.
• Dry Rags: For cleaning up spills and excess mud.
• Safety Glasses and Dust Mask: To protect your eyes and lungs from dust and debris.

Inside Corners: Mastering the Technique

Inside corners, often the trickiest to finish, benefit immensely from using a corner tool. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Apply the Tape: Unfold your drywall tape and carefully press it into the corner, ensuring it's snug against both drywall sheets. Use your utility knife to trim any excess tape.
2. Apply the First Coat: Using your 6-inch putty knife, apply a thin, even layer of joint compound over the tape, pressing it firmly into the corner to embed the tape completely. Remove any excess mud.
3. Use the Corner Tool: Once the first coat is dry (usually a few hours), use your corner tool to create a perfectly straight, even corner. This tool will embed the tape further, create a smooth surface and ensure the corner doesn't crack. Apply another thin coat of mud, this time over the entire corner.
4. Repeat and Sand: Allow the mud to dry completely. Apply at least two more coats, allowing each coat to dry before sanding. Use your sanding block or sander to smooth out any imperfections between coats. Remember to remove dust after each sanding stage.
5. Final Coat: Apply a final, thin coat of mud to ensure a perfect finish. Let it dry completely and sand lightly for a flawless result.

Outside Corners: Achieving Sharp Lines

Outside corners require a slightly different approach, often using a bead of mud and tape.

1. Apply the First Coat: Apply a thick bead of joint compound along the outside corner of the drywall. Make sure that you create a consistent, rounded bead.
2. Embed the Tape: Immediately press the drywall tape into the wet mud, making sure it adheres completely to the corner. Use your putty knife to press firmly and evenly, embedding the tape fully.
3. Apply Subsequent Coats: Allow the initial coat to dry completely before applying further coats. Use a wider knife for subsequent coats to ensure a smooth finish over the wider area. Aim for a total of 3-4 coats, feathering the edges smoothly outwards each time. Sand thoroughly after each coat.
4. Final Sanding: Once the final coat is dry, use fine-grit sandpaper to achieve a perfectly smooth surface.

Key Considerations for Both Inside and Outside Corners:

• Drying Time: Always allow adequate drying time between coats to prevent cracking.
• Thin Coats: Applying thin coats is crucial for preventing cracking and ensuring a smooth finish.
• Sanding: Thorough sanding is vital for a professional, flawless appearance.

By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can achieve perfectly finished drywall corners that will enhance the overall look of your room. Remember patience and practice are key to mastering these techniques. Happy finishing!