Tips for Using Sheetrock and Joint Compound

Choose the Appropriate Type of Sheetrock

• Sheetrock comes in many types designed for different applications. Consult your local building codes department to determine if there are specific codes that apply to your project. You may need to use panels that offer additional fire resistance. Some Sheetrock varieties come with foil backing to act as a vapor retardant. Some varieties offer water resistance while others are designed specifically for use on interior ceilings. To get the best results you need to choose the right type of Sheetrock for the job.

Use the Right Tools

• You can make your job of installing Sheetrock panels a lot easier if you have all the right tools for the job. You might be able to get by with a utility knife, a tape measure and a hammer, but the job will take much longer and probably won't look as good. To do the job right you need a razor knife, a 6-inch joint knife, an 8-inch taping knife, a 10-inch taping knife, a tape measure, a 4-foot T square, a carpenter's pencil, a 7-inch utility saw, a drywall hammer, a mud pan, assorted sponge sanding blocks and a stepladder. If you are going to put Sheetrock on the ceiling, it really helps to have a drywall lifter.

Choose the Right Type of Joint Compound

• Three basic types of joint compound are available, including general purpose, hot mud and topping compounds. It is important to use the right type of joint compound for the job. Choose general-purpose joint compound for your basic taping and bedding, to fill the cracks and joints between sheets of drywall. Use topping compound as a top coat to provide a smooth finish. Hot mud, also known as quick set joint compound, is formulated to set rapidly, sometimes in as little as five minutes. If you are going to use hot mud, be prepared to move quickly and accurately.

Plan Your Work

• The old adage, plan your work and work your plan, applies to any Sheetrock job. Measure the area you need to cover with Sheetrock so you can buy the proper number of sheets. Determine how each sheet will need to be arranged to provide maximum coverage with minimum waste. Make note of any cuts that you will need to make for electrical outlets and light switches. Ensure you have all the supplies you need before you start working, and it doesn't hurt to have a little extra to make up for those inevitable mistakes.