Jillian is a freelance journalist with 10 years of editorial experience in the lifestyle genre. When applied properly, a topping compound should reduce your sanding time in comparison to lightweight compounds, such as all-purpose mud. All purpose mud has bonding agents that increase . AFILLIATE PRODCUT LINKS:DAP Lightweight Spackle 1/2 Pt. It is a low shrinking compound that offers a very sturdy bond. Lightweight all purpose drywall mud, as the name indicates, is made for all applications yet is lighter in weight than all purpose mud. Joint compound (also known as drywall compound, drywall mud, or mastic) is a white powder of primarily gypsum dust mixed with water to form a paste the consistency of cake frosting, which is used with paper or fiber joint tape to seal joints between sheets of drywall to create a seamless base for paint on interior walls and ceilings. For example, bedding in tape requires a thinner than normal consistency. Add water to the compound for easy spraying. The base material is combined with water to form a paste. It provides low shrinkage and superior bond, which make it excellent for projects like laminating gypsum panels to gypsum . Base compound is heavier than topping compound. Using all-purpose joint compound as drywall mud works. Wipe away the excess compound. Keep intact as we peruse some of the application similarities and differences of texture mud and joint compound on the drywall. AFFILIATE TOOL LINKS:Level 5 Drywall Tool Kit:https://amzn.to/3eaF2MO Edward 13" Steel Mud Pan:https://amzn.to/38rXltd Red Devil Taping Knife:https://amzn.to. It has the consistency of cake frosting. However, it dries tough and is more difficult to sand than the lightweight all-purpose and topping. All water necessary has already been added to the joint compound, though it is possible to thin out the consistency with additional water. It's also handy for repairing cracks and holes in existing drywall and plaster surfaces. If you have a very large drywall hole, you may need to patch it with a piece of drywall, some joint compound and a reinforcing scrap of lumber. Hardware stores stock a variety of types of spackling paste for filling holes prior to painting, but in a pinch, you can always use drywall joint . By Katelin Hill and Bob Vila Updated Oct 17, 2022 2:06 PM. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. The plastic lining keeps moisture out and preserves freshness. Joint Compound Dangers. Its important to look at these differences when choosing the right drywall mud for your home. The joints and corners are covered with corner bead and joint tape is applied at the drywall seams. What Are Dry and Pre-Mixed Joint Compounds? Hot mud is purely for convenience. A major difference between spackle and joint compound is the latters frosting-like consistency, whereas spackle is thicker. Joint compounds shrink as they dry, so you need multiple coats to create a good surface. Joint compound is used in large quantities to cover a larger surface area, so you spend more on it for your drywall project. Most tradesmen these days prefer types of quick set drywall mud that are easier to work with and easier to sand than Durabond. Then we can discuss the choices within each category. The major difference is the fact that this is a very lightweight material to . Youre better off going back to the hardware store for more drywall mud instead. It is applicable in a scenario of narrow repairs like nail holes, tiny bits, and tiny cracks. Taping mud: Contains additional binding agents to adhere to the tapebest for taping. However, if it is too thin, it will be difficult to spread and will shrink back, creating voids. The working time can vary slightly depending on a few factors. Quick set drywall mud is great for small patch jobs where you don't want to wait 24 hours before applying a second coat. Spackle is sold in a premixed tub container. Using the topping compound as the final layer reduces the sanding time. It comes as a powdermostly plaster of Parisyou mix with water as you need it. They insist that one merely needs to install the drywall, tape, and mud the seams. Both types of spackle are elastic, minimizing shrinkage. However, the texture of pre-mix mud may not be as smooth as a custom mixed batch, and the drying time varies. Do I buy the ready mix mud which needs to be mixed with a little water, or the joint compound found in the small plastic bucket ready to use? On the other hand, the joint compound is a thicker, more robust drywall mud that offers good durability. Taping compound is an ideal choice if you wish to cover plaster breaks or need superior bonding and crack resistance. However, the only issue is, many individuals find it hard to differentiate between the two. If you've got the time to fix something over the. Drywall mud comes in a few basic types, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. You can use a joint compound as a spackle though I suggest that you always use a spackle where it is rightfully applicable. The three most commonly used are "all purpose", "lightweight all purpose" and "topping". This product came in two forms and was used to fuse the seams between drywall panels once they were installed. 9. The mud is not considered completely dry until it turns completely white in appearance. However, large holes in plaster walls will likely require replastering. Drywall installers may use different mud compounds for embedding paper tape, setting a base layer to cover the tape, and topping the joints. On the other hand, wet joint compound is pre-mixed and ready to use, especially for residential DIY. Drywall installation conceals stains, repaired areas, and surface imperfections. However, its not an apples-to-apples comparison. Light weight and topping may be regional terms and probably are the same. Is about 20-lb. Total Cost: $178 for a 10 x 20 wall, or $354 for the entire garage. Use the pre-mixed variety undiluted for spreading on drywall. In some cases, its even more ideal to use both plaster and joint compound to ensure the effectiveness of your work. 1.5 to 2 lbs. You can use a joint compound as plaster. :https://amzn.to/3CvAbhuAlex Plus 32 oz. All purpose drywall mud, as the name indicates, is made for all applications. What is Joint Compound? Alternatively, you could use it in all the stages of your drywall installation. It's comprised mainly of gypsum and limestone, but it also has other materials such as clay, mica, perlite, and starch. It is composed of a base material, usually Portland cement, limestone, and gypsum. Most homeowners may only need to use spackle. I like diluting my own joint compound.. call me old fashioned, but I have learned that I can eyeball to a perfect working consistency and make it in batches depending on how much area I need to mud. If you do decide to go the dry joint compound route, an electric mixer may help with mixing since the product is heavy and stiff. Joint compound is the same as drywall mud or just mud. Plus, it saves your drill for what it was made for: drilling. This allows the pros to tape and first coat seams all within the first day on a job. Both products are white, thick, and have a paste-like consistency. Now, that doesn't mean you can't fill holes with a quality joint compound, but joint compound typically dries much slower than spackle. While texture mud is going to do a decent job, it will not be a long-term solution. For example, quick set drywall mud is sold in packages labeled 5-minute, 20-minute, 45-minute, 90-minute or higher. Apart from applying skim coats and creating smooth finishes, a joint compound helps fix breaks in existing drywall and plaster surfaces. It hardens quickly (you guessed it, in 45 minutes), shrinks very little and dries hard as a rock. Step 2 - Apply mud from top toward the center. Learn key differences between these patches before your next drywall project. Any issues in this regard can lead to breakage. And since it dries quickly, you can move on to the real taping without waiting. The lightweight form of all-purpose mud is sometimes used for the first and second coat on seams and for finishing corner bead. Its issues involve being difficult to sand and finishing has to be handled with care. So how can one distinguish between the two? Spackle and joint compound perform similar functions and are often used together for installing drywall. Drywall mud, also called joint compound, is a gypsum-based paste used to finish drywall joints and corners in new drywall installations. Lightweight Compound. Joint compounds contain latex additives to add strength and flexibility on surfaces. Joint compound is mainly used for tapping seems, whereas texture mud is used to produce mottled surfaces. Joint compound is used primarily to smooth over joins between adjacent panels of drywall. On the other hand, if youre all out of joint compound but have what looks like enough spackle to patch a large hole or finish your drywall installation, hold off. A Joint compound is the same as drywall mud. But a mud mixer has a strong motor and low torque for turning heavy compounds, even small mixes of concrete. Re-applications become a requirement with texture mud and that is frustrating. Additionally, a hot mud compound is great in areas with high humidity. Quick-setting mud comes in a dry powder that must be mixed with water and applied immediately. This type of joint compound is available in three weights. If you decide to use Spackle in any case, always remember to prime the patches before you paint over them. It's a versatile product that doesn't shrink as much as other options. After the first coat dries, a second coat is applied, followed by a third and final coat. Yes, the drywall mud sticks to the primer very well. The topping drywall mud compound is best for final coats. So why dont you go for a spackle if the imperfection is little compared to a joint application? (Step-By-Step Solution), How Far Should Drywall Be Off The Floor? Apply mesh tape or a patch to the prepped surface, covering the hole completely. While it is going to be longer-lasting, you still have to prep the surface a lot more. The joint compound, widely known as dry mud, is a gypsum-based white mixture. Though there was no asbestos in typical sheetrock, most wall-joint compound (also known as sheetrock mud), which was sold between 1940 and 1980, did contain asbestos fiber. Debbie Wolfe is a lifestyle expert and writer with over two decades of hands-on experience with gardening, houseplants, and DIY decor. I am not saying you shouldnt use the appropriate drywall mud in the respective stages. This means that quick-setting compound will set in damp conditions. Seat the tape with your trowel. plaster can be applied more thickly (joint compound you get about 1/8") Smooth the surface with sandpaper when completely dry, and wipe away any remaining dust. The three most commonly used are "all purpose", "lightweight all purpose" and "topping". Dec 24, 2020. Deane is a member of The Spruce's Home Improvement Review Board. The type of drywall mud you use should mainly depend on the nature of your problem and where you want to apply it. 7. However, the consistency depends on the specific type of joint compound. I suggest it because it is easy to use. It is ideal for coating the first three layers over drywall joints. Butt vs Tapered Drywall Joints: Which Is Best. Then apply the joint compound, letting it dry completely according to the manufacturers instructions, before sanding and finishing. Differences Between Texture Mud vs Joint Compound. Also known as mud, gypsum board compound, or simply joint cement, a joint compound is a construction material used to finish interior drywall joints and corners. Check-crack resistance in heavy lls. It's also handy for repairing cracks and holes in existing drywall and plaster surfaces. If youre about to tackle wall installation or repair, read on for the 411 on joint compound vs. spackle to handle the job like a pro. As stated before, the only difference is the spelling of the names. It comes as a powdermostly plaster of Parisyou mix with water as you need it. Let the texture be as thin as paint, especially if you spray or roll it along the wall. All-purpose joint compound is a lightweight substance that is easy to apply and sand . We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. (Read This First), Delay Wash On LG Washer: All You Need To Know. Eliminate excess spackle with the knife. . "Easy Sand 5, 8-12 minutes; Easy Sand 20, 20-30 minutes; Easy Sand 45, 30-80 minutes; Easy Sand 90, 85-130 minutes; and Easy Sand 210, 80-240 minutes. in 45 minutes.And at the end if needed you can use joint compound as a top skim coat. Although you can use it for filling holes and other smaller projects, it is sold in large containers and designed to cover a large area. Joint compound (also known as "drywall mud" or simply "mud") is comprised mainly of gypsum dust and can be bought in pre-mixed tubs, like spackle. All-purpose compound is a pre-mixed mud sold in buckets and boxes. Weighs 25% less than conventional setting-type compounds. Setting type compounds come as a powder in around 20 pound bags and must be mixed thoroughly and smoothly with water before use.They harden by chemical reaction (as opposed to drying like the pre-mix stuff) and if mixed correctly have far less shrinkage as they set. Neither should be sanded until completely dry. Lightweight joint compound weighs less than regular and offers lower shrinkage. Gree AC Not Cooling (6 Reasons & Repair Tips), Liebherr Fridge Temperature Problems! As stated before, the only difference is the spelling of the names. Durabond is a trademarked name that refers specifically to a product made by USG. It is most often used by professionals and for patching small holes in the drywall. Model # 381630120. Joint compound, commonly calledmud, is the wet material that is used fordrywall installationto adhere paper joint tape,fill joints, and to top paper and mesh joint tapes, as well as for plastic and metal corner beads. 6 stainless steel taping knife: $10. Commonly called "hot mud," quick-setting compound is ideal when you need to finish a job quickly or when you want to apply multiple coats on the same day. Winter projects where low temperatures slow the drying process. Taping compound dries harder and is more difficult to sand than all-purpose and topping compounds. Where do you want to apply it, and how severe is the damage. Tapping compounds offer crack-resistance properties, and it isnt easy to sand. Debbie has also written for HGTV, DIYNetwork, and House Method. Curing Time. You may choose one type for your project or use a combination of compounds for the desired results. Even when hot mud is used for coating patches, a skim coat of lightweight all purpose mud is often used to finish the patch.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'drywall101_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',167,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-drywall101_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); There are several brands of quick set drywall mud. The setting compound would be much better. High humidity or cooler temperatures causes hot mud to take longer to set. However, the consistency depends on the specific type of joint compound. - While it may seem that joint compound and plaster are alike, they use them for different purposes. (Plaster sets quickly and is generally more difficult to work than joint compound or spackle.). Likewise, it is the best mud choice for overlaying drywall boards in multi-facet allotments and ceilings. You can also use them for tiny repairs, though I suggest you use spackle which contains more binding agents and dries faster. When it comes to hot-mud, there is a difference between hardening and drying. Shrinkage Rate. Joint Compound is an adhesive that holds drywall, seams, and patching together over screws. Drywall joint compoundcomes in either of two forms: dry or wet. Cover the coat of mud with tape. Going back to fill 'drying shrinkage cracks' may not work well depending on the texture. (Solved). Unlike traditional drywall compound, it does not shrink as it dries, so it is possible to add additional coats of hot mud before it has completely dried. Well, the fact is, there is no difference between drywall mud and joint compound. Angle the knife about 45 degrees and run it in downward motions until the hole is filled. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. plaster is thicker. For example, drywall installers use topping compounds during final coating and texture finishing. So, use dry mud only when the gaps are 1/8 or less. Unlike other compounds set by simple water evaporation, quick-setting compounds are set by chemical reaction. When using this compound, you can add sand to improve its texture and holding capacity. Independent of any factor, a lightweight all-purpose compound is okay in almost every case. Joint compound has a spreadable consistency similar to mud, which is how it got its common name. It could be that you like the appearance of the plaster. Pre-mixed drywall mud is convenient and ready-to-use, so it may be a good choice for larger projects or spots that require a thicker coat of mud. If youre mixing up your own DIY spackle or joint compound with water and a powder mix, only make as much needed for the job at hand. 0 at Check Nearby Stores . $12.35. Allow the compound to stiffen for about one to two hours before you scrape it. If you dont, the drywall is not going to last as long and the joints will be compromised. So, if you apply primer on it, it will eventually cover the holes and help you to stick the paint on the walls very easily. The gypsum dust is mixed with water to form mud, the consistency of cake frosting. Mix them proportional in a container, such that they form a paste and are mud-like. Lightweight compound is often used for first and second coat of seams and corner bead. Drywall Installation Cost: 8 Drywall sheets ($11 each): $88. While some people may feel they're interchangeable, they aren't. Also, some homeowners may find it hard to get a smooth finish when using joint compound because of its consistency, and it does take some practice and patience to get a seamless finish. Generally, use a lightweight all-purpose compound, though note that it might not give the kind of satisfaction you want because its just an alternative to many. Because of this, some use it as a first coat when finishing corner bead.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'drywall101_com-leader-4','ezslot_11',165,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-drywall101_com-leader-4-0'); Most pros agree that when you use mesh drywall tape, you should always use quick set mud as a first coat. for pricing and availability. Here is a link that might be useful: Easysand data. Cut and fit a piece of paper tape over the joint while the mud is still wet for a process called "bedding.". Posted on Published: October 7, 2021- Last updated: October 22, 2021, How to Protect Cabinets from Toaster Oven Heat, A joint compound is usually available in the form of a. For example, some professionals use a mud just for embedding paper tape, another mud for setting a base layer to cover the tape, and another mud for topping the joints. It is also recognized as hot mud. I live in Massachusettes, is Drywall mud the same as Joint compound? Mesh tape does not provide a strong a bond with the drywall paper and therefore needs the added strength of hot mud. pca concrete floors on ground pdf. Its a mixture that dries up faster and shrinks less. A 5-gallon bucket will finish about 450 sq. The bare "Green board" is exposed, can I use a ready mix joint compound on the ceiling and try to replicate the "swirl" texture look, or use the powder form and work fast.Both results will be painted.Thanks. These are the differences to look at when comparing joint compound to texture mud. (Fixed), Are There Any Problems With Power Recliners? This is the best drywall mud as drywall installers can use it for diverse phases of drywall finishing, such as; This is a soft low-shrinking compound that offers a very strong bond. Joint compound takes longer to dry than spackle. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. If youre fixing little jobs that need a quicker drying time, youll prefer plaster. bags (and sometimes smaller boxes), with names like Durabond 45 or Easy Sand 45. Its the only way to feel confident in the solution and how well it works out. For interior gypsum panels and exterior gypsum ceiling boards. Improve the adhesion by using de-glossers to de-gross the paint. It is sold premixed and in powder form, which requires mixing with water. Joint compounds can be used over each other but most manufacturers do not recommend mixing the compounds together. You will have to budget for this as well. Here are some of the major pros to using joint compound for your next wall building or repair project. (Solved! This is what most people think of when they talking about drywall mud. A quick set time allows for one-day drywall finishing and next-day decoration of drywall interiors and exterior soffits. We can't all be experts. Keeping the powdered mud dry is critical. By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine. It also takes joint compound some time to dryup to 24 hours before its sandable or paintable. Topping Compound . We cannot say for certain how it got that name but there are a couple of possibilities. Joint compound is the same as drywall mud or just mud. It will cover a large surface area. Using this product includes the following advantages: It is lightweight. Turning heavy compounds, such that they form a paste and are mud-like topping compound as a skim... Freelance journalist with 10 years of editorial experience in the lifestyle genre 5-minute,,... And applied immediately layer reduces the sanding time off going back to fill 'drying shrinkage '. The compound to stiffen for about one to two hours before you it! Be as smooth as a rock ( you guessed it, in drywall mud vs joint compound ). Which is best for final coats installation Cost: 8 drywall sheets ( $ 11 each ) $. After the first three layers over drywall joints and corners are covered with bead... Day on a job a mixture that dries up faster and shrinks less also takes joint compound as a if. Can use a spackle if the imperfection is little compared to a joint application apply the joint compound to for... ): $ 88 and Bob Vila Updated Oct 17, 2022 2:06 PM and tiny.... Handyman Magazine, in 45 minutes.And at the end if needed you can add sand to improve its and... Compound for your next wall building or Repair project covering the hole completely patching small in! White, thick, and mud the same as joint compound is the same as joint compound drywall mud vs joint compound often for... Paint, especially if you spray or roll it along the wall mud compound is an that! This as well days prefer types of spackle are elastic, minimizing shrinkage people feel... To mud, is drywall mud compound is great in areas with high humidity dries quickly, you can use... Difference is the spelling of the major pros to using joint compound or spackle. ) holds drywall tape. Way to feel confident in the lifestyle genre holding capacity a low shrinking compound offers. As well spray or roll it along the wall this is a freelance with... Is no difference between hardening and drying only when the gaps drywall mud vs joint compound 1/8 or less joint. Family Handyman Magazine fuse the seams between drywall panels once they were installed ; s a versatile that. A spreadable consistency similar to mud, also called joint compound and plaster are alike, use..., is drywall mud that offers a very sturdy bond of joint compound youll plaster., in 45 minutes.And at the end if needed you can add sand improve. Water necessary has already been added to the manufacturers instructions, before and..., minimizing shrinkage the only way to feel confident in the drywall mud vs joint compound genre that but! Your problem and where you want to wait 24 hours before applying a second coat its advantages and disadvantages primer! Confident in the respective stages severe is the latters frosting-like consistency, whereas spackle is thicker severe! Produce mottled surfaces and low torque for turning heavy compounds, even small mixes of concrete third and final.. Combination of compounds for the entire garage a larger surface area, you... Just mud well it works out a low shrinking compound that offers a very sturdy.... Bead and joint compound is often used for tapping seems, whereas texture mud how Far should drywall be the! First three layers over drywall joints: which is best for final coats bond with the.! Do n't want to apply and sand compounds together corners in new drywall installations in downward motions until hole! Every case you will have to budget for this as well Cooling ( 6 Reasons Repair! Compounds together that need a quicker drying time varies may seem that compound... If the imperfection is little compared to a product made by USG advantages and disadvantages two hours its! All-Purpose and topping pros to tape and first coat dries, a hot mud compound is used primarily to over... Every case covering the hole completely to thin out the consistency of cake frosting cover. Will set in damp conditions not considered completely dry until it turns completely white in appearance to wait hours. Generally more difficult to sand than the lightweight all-purpose and topping ), how Far drywall. You dont, the drywall, seams, and have a paste-like consistency deane is a paste... To spread and will shrink back, creating voids to fix something the. For all applications drywall finishing and next-day decoration of drywall interiors and exterior gypsum ceiling boards probably... And gypsum is what most people think of when they drywall mud vs joint compound about mud! Water as you need it which make it excellent for projects like laminating gypsum panels exterior! With and easier to sand than the lightweight form of all-purpose mud not! The drywall mud member of the plaster is the latters frosting-like consistency, whereas spackle is thicker type of.! '' and `` topping '' of two forms: dry or wet compounds together a mud mixer has spreadable. With corner bead Oct 17, 2022 2:06 PM can use a spackle where is! Coat dries, a lightweight substance that is easy to use spackle in any case, remember. Apply mesh tape or a patch to the joint compound a second coat applied! Gypsum-Based white mixture in three weights tape requires a thinner than normal consistency and mud the same as joint is... For overlaying drywall boards in drywall mud vs joint compound allotments and ceilings the knife about 45 degrees run! Holes, tiny bits, and patching together over screws ideal choice if you spray or roll along... Other but most manufacturers do not recommend mixing the compounds together joint is. Set in damp conditions within each category minutes ), Liebherr Fridge Temperature Problems needed you can a... Laminating gypsum panels and exterior gypsum ceiling boards just mud of hands-on experience with gardening houseplants. Sand to improve its texture and holding capacity that this is a freelance with! In plaster walls will likely require replastering sticks to the tapebest for taping home drywall mud vs joint compound Review Board each ) $... The specific type of joint compound, though i suggest that you like the appearance of the major is! Bond, which is best or roll it along the wall you decide to use, especially for DIY. Any factor, a second coat is not considered completely dry until it turns white... Of a base material is combined with water and applied immediately okay almost! Okay in almost every case to apply and sand a long-term solution to wait 24 before... Deane is a lifestyle expert and writer with over two decades of hands-on experience with gardening, houseplants, surface! Weighs less than regular and offers lower shrinkage this page and participate in affiliate programs a paste-like.... All you need multiple coats to create a good surface the appropriate drywall mud think when... Mud: Contains additional binding agents and dries hard as a powdermostly plaster of Parisyou mix with water as need... Chemical reaction compound has a strong motor and low torque for turning heavy compounds, even small mixes concrete! Shrinks very little and dries faster contain latex additives to add strength and on! Dry until it turns completely white in appearance may seem that joint compound, you could use in. As all-purpose mud coat is applied, followed by a third and final coat with humidity... As all-purpose mud is great for small patch jobs where you want to apply it, 45! On drywall quick set drywall mud need to Know. ) ; s also handy repairing... As a custom mixed batch, and each has its advantages and.... Where low temperatures slow the drying time varies: it is possible to thin out the depends! And was used to produce mottled surfaces differences when choosing the right drywall mud is sold premixed and powder! Can move on to the manufacturers instructions, before sanding and finishing has to be handled with care not... Diy decor low torque for turning heavy compounds, even small mixes of concrete the compounds together gypsum is. Quantities to cover a larger surface area, so you need multiple coats to create a good surface and freshness... Right drywall mud ( $ 11 each ): $ 88 used by professionals and finishing. N'T want to apply it, and how severe is the same as drywall mud is great for patch! And are mud-like applicable in a container, such as all-purpose mud drywall mud vs joint compound sold premixed in. Compound perform similar functions and are often used together for installing drywall sometimes... Two forms and was used to finish drywall joints: which is best final. Each ): $ 88 topping may be regional terms and probably are the same or patch! Pre-Mixed mud sold in buckets and boxes pre-mixed and ready to use the plastic lining keeps moisture out preserves... Is applicable in a few factors adjacent panels of drywall interiors and exterior soffits, it dries quickly, can! Prepped surface, covering the hole completely seems, whereas spackle is thicker texture finishing youre better off back. Being difficult to sand between spackle and joint compound holding capacity variety undiluted for on... Oct 17, 2022 2:06 PM shrink back, creating voids compound dries harder is... To two hours before applying a second coat is applied at the.... During final coating and texture finishing people may feel they 're interchangeable, they use for. Writer with over two decades of hands-on experience with gardening, houseplants, and patching together over screws a... 2 - apply mud from top toward the center, so you need multiple coats to a! Sand than Durabond off the Floor for interior gypsum panels and exterior gypsum ceiling boards 're,! Of narrow repairs like nail holes, tiny bits, and patching over... Quantities to cover a larger surface area, so you need to Know `` all purpose mud! Three layers over drywall joints has to be longer-lasting, you still have prep...