Seaming Wall Joints After Removing Battens

Removal

• Seaming the wall joints first requires that you completely remove the battens covering them. The battens will generally come out with little effort on your part, although in some cases some significant prying and pulling may be necessary. You can loosen the battens with a utility knife by sliding the tip and sharp edge of the blade downward between the batten and the wall. Once you create some space, use a putty knife or another flat-edge tool to pry the batten away from the wall. Start at the top near the ceiling and pull the entire batten out, if possible, by pulling out and down.

Tape

• Once the seam is fully exposed, you can then proceed to apply seam tape used by most drywall contractors to eliminate space between drywall pieces. This tape is usually composed of some type of fiberglass composite material that is both strong and moisture-resistant. The tape should be run from the top of the seam all the way to the floor. The tape provides the necessary preparation for the permanent covering for the seams.

Joint Compound

• Joint compound is the material that you should use to fill in the gaps between the wall boards. This is a putty that contractors use in the installation of drywall as well. He putty will dry in place, forming a hard and durable surface that resembles the exterior surface of a piece of drywall. Apply the joint compound using the edge of a putty knife. The putty will be thick like mud and will need to be spread evenly down the seam between the walls. Allow the putty to dry overnight. Some joint compounds come in a pink color and then turn white once they are fully dry.

Finishing

• Once the drywall has dried, you can then put on the finishing touches to eliminate the seam. Start by smoothing the joint compound with a piece of medium and then fine sandpaper. Ensure that the surface of the wall and joint compound are even with one another. If necessary, apply a second layer of joint compound to eliminate any holes or dips. Sand again once dry and then apply the wall covering of your choice such as paint or wall paper.