How to Tape and Float Sheetrock
Let’s talk about taping and floating sheetrock. The goal of floating and taping is to make the wall as flat and seamless as possible. This could include, building a completely new structure, remaking a room, or simply repairing a hole in the wall. It’s all done basically the same way.
Before getting started there are some things that you’ll need:
6” taping knife
10” taping knife
Utility knife
Electric Drill (if you’re using powder)
Ribbon mixer (if you’re using powder)
Drywall hammer
Screwdriver
Mud pan
Dust mask
Sand Paper
Drywall tape (fiberglass mesh type, not paper)
5 gallon bucket(s) of sheetrock mud (drywall compound) or powder
1. Before you begin taping the wall, first you want to look at each section of wall to ensure that the nails or screws that you used are not sticking out beyond the sheetrock itself. If you used a hammer, nail the nails in further. If you used screws, make sure they are in below the surface of the sheetrock itself.
(Note: if you haven’t done so already, you should use COARSE Screws, not Fine) They are much easier to install.
2. Next, take your fiberglass drywall tape and begin covering all the seams on your wall.
3. Next, if you bought the powder mix, you’ll want to follow the instructions on the bag and mix the joint compound to its specifications. If you bought the ready mix, open the container.
Take your taping knife and begin covering all the seams and screw holes. The screw holes are easy, just cover them up with the joint compound, making sure to not over apply, use thin layers.
Note: the more joint compound you use, is not better, it just means more sanding. Applying joint compound is easier than sanding it off, so take your time, do not over apply.
When doing the seam, make sure to press the joint compound into the seams, covering it and the tape that you applied earlier. The tape should still be rigid and visible after the first layer of compound. A general rule of thumb is to apply three layers of compound, one on top of the other, after each layer dries.
Make sure you taper the seams to the best of your ability. This will aid in reducing sanding and the look of your wall when your done.
Once you’ve finished applying the joint compound, wait for it to dry. After that, some people prefer to sand in between each layer, and others prefer to wait until all the layers they want have been applied.
4. It’s time to start sanding. Go over all screw holes and seams. Sand them down, but on the seams, do not go overboard, or you’ll end up re-exposing the tape underneath, then you have to reapply joint compound.
