I recently did some drywall patching and soon will have to drywall my entire basement. From my little experience I have found that my results were not so great. While I understand that practice is probably key to success I see some problems that probably come from doing something wrong. I use self-adhesive tape to seal joints. I apply 3-4 coats of joint compound each time waiting at least one day to let the compound dry completely. I send usually only after third coat. The first problem that I encounter is air bubbles. after third and fourth coat and sending the surface turns flat but with small holes I believe due to bubbles. How to eliminate them? Second problem is that I don't understand how to make two sheets of drywall be flat with joint when there is tape and several coats of joint compound over it? It makes the joint bump a little. Also I realize I have to do a lot of sending. much more then it should be? What's the secret to little sending? And last question: what's the proper way to cut openings for switch boxes and especially for recessed lights? Should I put the sheet, screw it and then use utility knife or rotary tool to cut opening? Or I just measure and cut the opening before putting the sheet?
- posted
20 years ago