Taping Drywall

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

by Kathy Maynard, reprinted courtesy of ServiceMagic.com

Q: What is the correct procedure for installing drywall tape at the seams?

A: Service Magic has a description of taping and texturing drywall on our website. Visit ServiceMagic.com, select Walls and Ceilings on the pull down menu, then look for Drywall Installation Techniques under Project Planning. (If it doesn't pop up on the right of the page, you could also type Drywall Install into the Search box at the top of the page.)

As far as learning how to do it, many large home improvement stores offer classes in taping drywall. Although you could read about how to do it, I think watching a live demonstration and trying it yourself under the guidance of an instructor would be more helpful.

However, it is somewhat of a craft to properly tape and mud drywall in order to hide the seams. Though applying texture will cover many flaws, you can see a bad tape job across a room. So if you are doing this in a room where you (and your guests) spend a lot of time and would notice flaws in the walls, you might consider hiring someone to just do the drywall taping (and sanding) and perhaps texturing for best results. If you've hung your own drywall and will finish by painting or papering it, you can still enjoy a lot of savings and personal satisfaction from having done most of the work yourself without feeling irritated by seeing flaws every time you enter the room!

To locate a reputable drywall specialist, visit ServiceMagic.com, fill out a service request and let us match you with the ideal service professional in your area.

Good luck!

Kathy Maynard

-- Tips courtesy of Service Magic