Replies

1. 
   Barry_E | Dec 10, 2001 04:21pm | #1

   *
   Nanuk

   I prefer durabond to ready mixed. You can get more coats on in a day.

   If your not in a hurry the ready mix is fine. Depends on how bad the wall is. Not sure how to describe the consistency. But the first coat I would probably add 1/2 to 1 cup to a 5. Start out with a 1/2 cup and see how it works for you. The second coat I would thin a little more.

   Have fun, Barry

1. 
   Jason | Dec 11, 2001 12:33am | #2

   *I've done similar things. I like to use premixed topping compound; it has a better consistency (and is made for this application). I thin it down until it's the consistency of yogurt, then throw in ten or so drops of dishwashing detergent and mix it in good to keep down bubbles and boogers. I put it on however I can, and use a 24" knife to smooth it.

1. 
   Joseph_Fusco | Dec 11, 2001 01:40am | #3

   *Nanak,

   If you are using the "stuff" straight from the pail you don't need to thin it at all. If you thin it it will just fly onto everything but the wall you are aiming for especial if you've never done this before. Just open the pail and mix it well. This will cause it to loosen up and make it easier to spread.

   View Image"The first step towards vice is to shroud innocent actions in mystery, and whoever likes to conceal something sooner or later has reason to conceal it." Aristotle

1. 
   Geoff_B | Dec 11, 2001 02:14am | #4

   *I wouldn't recommed durabond for a novice as it is not sandable. You may try ez sand by USG but for skimcoating redimixed direct out of the bucket should dry in no time and you shouldn't need more then 2 coats.

1. 
   dave_c | Dec 11, 2001 05:57am | #5

   * I know many guys use the soap thing i have seen it for years but i Never use dishwashing soap it can react with some paints and you may have a problem with the paint holding up in the way it was designed too when the wet paint comes in contact with the soap in the dry compound. I have many buissness associates that are high end painters and tapers and they have always said if you add a little water and mix the mud well, and keep a clean knife you wont have all the boggers and bubbles. Dont try to put so much on at once remember its called a skim coat for a reason.

2. 
   james_johnson | Dec 11, 2001 06:07am | #6

   *mite want to try a bonding agent like plaster weld, it will make the skim coat stick better. also i usually start with ez sand 20 or 45 ( these bond well without the plaster weld) and top with bucket mud out of a 12" box or large taping knife, then come back when dry and fill any voids, wait and sand.

3. 
   Rich_ | Dec 11, 2001 08:02am | #7

   *I've done this several times. Best results with the consistency straight out of the box. Instead of dry sanding, use a wet sponge. Those hydra sponges work great.

4. 
   piffin_ | Dec 12, 2001 03:15pm | #8

   *I'd prefer USG ez sand but you can use premixed and thin it. If you use it straight, it's ok too but it'll kill your arm and shoulder. Thin it too much and then Joe is right - you'll be cleaning up a mess.

2. 
   Nanuk_ | Dec 12, 2001 03:15pm | #9

   *
   I posted a discussion about ripping down wall paper, and now I need a little help on the next step. I've used Diff and cleaned up the wall, now I need to skim coat it so I can prime and paint. I'm using All Purpose Mud out of the bucket. Should it be thinned to use it as a skim coat, and if so, how much? I'm looking for some kind of comparison to know what consistency I'm supposed to use, such as honey, or peanut butter, or anything in between that my small brain can relate to. Or if I should be using something else instead for a skim coat. Any help, as always, is greatly appreciated. Thanks.