Step by Step Instructions on Repairing Cracked Drywall Taped Seams
By Mark J. Donovan
Cracked drywall tape typically occurs
because there was insufficient joint compound applied underneath the drywall
tape when it was applied to the drywall seams. When insufficient joint compound
is not applied underneath the drywall tape, air bubbles form and appear as
bulges on the wall. Over time, the drywall tape begins to separate from the wall
and drywall tape lines begin to show. Fortunately it is relatively easy to
repair cracked drywall taped seams.
To repair cracked drywall tape seams
the best solution is to remove the old cracked drywall tape.
To do this use a utility knife and
score the edges of the drywall tape just beyond the bad edges of the tape.
Next, run a utility knife down the center length of the cracked drywall taped
section.
Remove the cracked drywall tape section using your hands. You may need to use
the utility knife to lift the edges to start the process.
After removing the drywall tape, use
100 grit sandpaper or drywall sanding screen and sand over the seam. The purpose
of this is twofold (1) to remove much of the old joint compound and (2) to rough
up the surface to enable better adhesion of the new joint compound. After
sanding the cracked seam, wipe it down with a rag to remove any dust.
Now apply mesh drywall tape over the seam. Apply the sticky side surface to the
wall.
Alternatively you can use paper
drywall tape however you will first need to apply a layer of joint compound over
the seam to imbed the paper tape into. Use a 6” drywall taping knife to apply
the tape to the wall.
After applying the drywall tape to the wall, apply a thin layer of joint
compound over the tape and allow it to thoroughly dry. Again, use a 6” wide
drywall taping knife to apply this layer of joint compound.
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After the first coat of joint
compound has dried, apply a second coat of joint compound over it, however use a
10” wide drywall knife and flare out the seams to about 6 inches wide. Also,
just prior to applying the second coat of joint compound you may want to use
your 6” taping knife to knock off any high spots on the first application of
joint compound.
After the second coat of joint compound has fully dried, apply a final skim coat
of joint compound, again using the 10” drywall knife and flaring out the seams a
little more, to approximately 10-12 inches.
Once the third application of joint compound has dried use drywall sanding
screen to gently blend in the joint compound edges into the surrounding drywall
wall panel area. Make sure you are careful to not sand too much over the actual
drywall tape.
Immediately wipe down the wall and vacuum up the dust.
Finally apply a coat of primer over the repaired cracked drywall taped seam, and
then paint the entire wall.
How to Repair a Large Drywall Hole Ebook
- If you have a large hole in your drywall and need to repair it,
you can
either call in a drywall contractor and pay an arm and a leg, or you can fix
it yourself.The "How
to Repair a Large Drywall Hole Ebook" will show you how to
repair your damaged wall so that it looks as good as new.
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Additional Drywall Resources from Amazon.com
Tools for Repairing Cracked Drywall Tape From Amazon.com
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