To sand plaster joints effectively, you start at the edges of the compound and work your way towards the middle of the joint.
Sanding is a crucial step in finishing plasterboard or drywall joints to create a smooth, seamless surface ready for painting or other finishes. The goal is to feather the edges of the joint compound smoothly into the surrounding wall or ceiling surface.
Here's a breakdown of the process based on common techniques and the provided reference:
Steps for Sanding Plaster Joints
- Prepare the Area: Ensure the joint compound is completely dry. Protect surrounding areas with dust sheets or plastic sheeting. Wear appropriate safety gear, including a dust mask or respirator and safety glasses.
- Choose Your Tool: You can use a hand sander, pole sander, or power sander (like an orbital sander) with appropriate grit sandpaper (starting with medium-grit, around 120-150, and potentially finishing with fine-grit, 200+).
- Begin Sanding Technique: As highlighted in the reference, the technique involves:
- Starting at the edges of the applied joint compound.
- Working towards the middle of the joint.
This method helps to carefully feather the tapered edges of the compound flat against the wall surface without creating dips or sanding away the compound over the tape in the center of the joint.
- Apply Even Pressure: Use light, consistent pressure. Sanding too aggressively can gouge the compound or create uneven surfaces.
- Check for Smoothness: Periodically run your hand over the joint to feel for bumps or ridges. You can also use a light held parallel to the wall surface (a raking light) to highlight imperfections.
- Mark Areas Needing Filling: If, while sanding, you identify areas that were missed or need more compound (e.g., pinholes, low spots), the reference suggests marking them lightly with a pencil. These areas will require another thin coat of compound and subsequent sanding after drying.
- Clean Up Dust: Sanding creates a significant amount of fine dust. Use a shop vacuum with a HEPA filter to clean the area thoroughly after sanding is complete.
By following this method of starting at the edges and working inward, you achieve a well-feathered joint that blends seamlessly with the surrounding surface.
