How to Recoat Drywall

When installing drywall, it is sometimes necessary to recoat seams between pieces of drywall. Drywall mud and drywall tape fill the seams between pieces of drywall and around corners. The tape covers the seam, and the mud covers the tape, blending in with the surface of the drywall to create a seamless wall. Sometimes the tape doesn't get covered well initially and requires recoating. Recoating drywall involves first sanding the existing compound so that you are able to see clearly where recoating is necessary.

150-grit sandpaper
Drywall hand sander
Pre-mix drywall compound
Drywall knife
Damp rag

Instructions

- 1
  Install 150-grit sandpaper onto a drywall hand sander, a flat piece of metal with a handle. There is usually a screw clip or compression clip on each end of the sander to hold the sandpaper.
- 2
  Sand the seam area with the hand sander. Apply light pressure and hold the hand sander flat against the seam. It is only necessary to sand just enough to remove ridges.
- 3
  Apply pre-mixed drywall compound to the seam area with a drywall knife. The drywall knife looks like a standard putty knife, but the blade is more flexible. Recoat the drywall seam, ensuring that you cover any exposed drywall tape.
- 4
  Allow the drywall compound to dry completely. Sand the area again with the hand sander and wipe it clean with a damp rag.

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