So many muds--what do you recommend?


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Old 09-19-14, 06:53 AM
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So many muds--what do you recommend?

It's been 20 years since I did any drywall work and there now looks to be many more choices in types of mud.
What would be the recommended progression of types for normal taping?
Is ultralight topper better/easier than general purpose for the final coat?

Anything new I should look into? This time it's just some repair work but in the not-too-distant future I'm going to replace a large ceiling. I tried a roll of very thin fiber mesh tape this time & hated it--not sticky enough & wouldn't stay put so I'll avoid that stuff when working over my head!
 
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Old 09-19-14, 06:58 AM
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Avoid the mesh tape altogether - the paper tape is stronger.

Personally, I just use regular joint compound but I don't mud often enough to base your choice solely on what I do.
 
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Old 09-19-14, 07:03 AM
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If you are only going to buy 1 bucket - get the general purpose mud [green lid] It has better adhesive qualities than the light weight mud and is best for both the tape coat and texture [if used] Using a setting compound like Durabond or EasySand is also an option.
 
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Old 09-19-14, 10:01 AM
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It's a big ceiling--about 20x25--so if the job would be easier I can certainly afford a 2nd bucket if there's any real advantage to it.

On the repair job I'm doing now (drywall patches replacing plaster/wood lath) I leveled with 20 minute setting compound. Hated it but the store was out of 45. Wasn't sure if I should try the feather-light topping for the last coat or 2. Job has taken an entire week because of how long mud takes to dry--and it's the kitchen :-/
 
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Old 09-19-14, 12:07 PM
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The lightweight mud is supposed to spread and sand a little easier than the all purpose mud. I've never noticed a big difference but I don't do a lot of drywall work.
Are you saying the 20 minute mud is taking a long time to dry I prefer the 20 min mud but often have use the 45 min because they don't stock much 20 min mud around here. I like to use ready mix mud on the final coat because it's easier to sand.
 
 

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