Why Your Drywall Might Need Multiple Coats of Mud

Why Multiple Coats?

After laying that initial coating, issues could start to show in the walls and ceilings. Amateurs would ignore these problems and move on to the next phase of drywalling. But you’re no amateur. So you know that your first coat is going to need some backup. Here are a few issues you might see as clear signs that there need to be additional coats:

• Distinct crevices
• Cracks
• Textured areas
• Not enough coverage
• A lack of straightness in walls

If even one of these issues makes an appearance, you need to get that drywall mud mixing paddle going again because another coat should be on the way. Don’t be so hasty with it, though. Some of these problems you won’t see immediately. Plus, you need to do a great deal of sanding before adding another coat. The wall needs to appear as smooth as possible.

How Many More?

Now for the pressing question: How many more coats does the wall need? All this depends on a few things:

• Expendable time
• Type of mud
• Desired level of finishing

All these factors play a major role. For some jobs, you might be running low on time, so that first coat is all you can add at that moment. You’ll probably be able to come back later and give the proper care. But for now, consider just adding one more coat to see where that gets you.

The type of mud you’re using might be thicker than others and not require too much additional help. Or it might not be thick enough. Here at Timothy’s Toolbox, we recommend mixing until it’s at the right texture you need for the taping tools. The ideal thickness of the mud is often different when using it to smooth walls compared to using the mud in a taping banjo or automatic taper.

And lastly, consider what level of drywall finishing you’re after. There are five levels all drywallers know about, and each one requires specific steps. For some areas, such as basements, closets, or attics, you might not need too many additional coats because they don’t go past level two.

What’s the Wait Time?

If you’re adding another layer, you can’t do it immediately. As previously stated, you need to sand that first one down. And it needs to dry before you do that. Consider letting everything sit overnight. Drying overnight leaves nothing to chance.

This way, you can square away everything and thoroughly check just how many additional coats you think it will require. Keep in mind that temperature plays a role in the drying process too. Test out that first coat before moving forward.

Your drywall mud isn’t playing tricks on you. It just might need multiple coats and our tips. If you need drywall tools for the job, visit our website.