Bulging drywall — Aurora, CO

Drywall finishes range from smooth to textured. The most common smooth finishes are Level 4 and Level 5, which provide a uniform surface for paint. Textured finishes, like orange peel or knockdown, can hide minor imperfections and add visual interest. The choice of finish often depends on the desired look and the quality of the underlying drywall installation. The pros can explain the options and recommend what works best.

To spackle holes in drywall, first ensure the area is clean and free of dust or debris. For small holes, apply a small amount of spackle with a putty knife, smoothing it flush with the wall surface. For larger holes, you might need to use a drywall patch or a piece of drywall. Allow the spackle to dry completely, then sand it smooth before priming and painting. The pros handle this efficiently.

Half-inch drywall is the most common type used for standard wall and ceiling applications in residential construction. It's versatile and provides a good balance of strength and flexibility. Thicker drywall, like 5/8 inch, is often used for ceilings or areas requiring greater fire resistance or sound dampening. The crew uses the appropriate thickness for each application in Aurora homes.

For drywall repairs, both paper and fiberglass mesh tape are commonly used. Paper tape is generally preferred for inside corners as it creates a sharper angle when embedded in mud. Fiberglass mesh tape is self-adhesive, making it easy to apply, and is often used for patching larger holes or seams where a perfect corner isn't critical. The pros choose the tape that ensures the strongest, smoothest repair.

All-purpose drywall mud is a versatile joint compound suitable for various stages of drywall finishing. It's commonly used for embedding drywall tape, filling screw and nail indentations, and for the initial coats of mudding. It dries relatively hard and can be sanded. While good for most jobs, some professionals prefer specialized compounds for specific applications or final coats. The crew uses it effectively for many tasks.

Greenboard drywall, also known as moisture-resistant drywall, has a facing that is treated to resist moisture. It's often used in areas prone to humidity, like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. While it offers some protection against moisture, it's not waterproof and should not be used in areas that will be directly exposed to water. It's a good choice for many areas in Aurora homes.