15 Finish Surfaces Flashcards
(203 cards)
1
Q
What material has been used in buildings since prehistoric times?
A
Plaster
Archaeological evidence shows plaster walls and floors dating back to 6000 B.C. in Mesopotamia.
1
Q
What is the first step in finishing drywall?
A
Seal the panel joints with tape or cover corners with corner bead
2
Q
What is the core material of drywall?
A
Gypsum rock
Gypsum rock has been used since ancient times to make plaster.
2
Q
How many coats of joint compound are typically applied?
A
Three coats
3
Q
What book is recommended for readers interested in installing drywall?
A
Myron Ferguson’s Drywall
Published by The Taunton Press in 2012.
3
Q
What is the purpose of the first coat of joint compound?
A
To bed the tape
4
Q
What is another name for drywall?
A
Sheetrock®
Sheetrock is a popular brand of drywall.
4
Q
What type of compound is used for the second coat?
A
A thin layer of topping compound or all-purpose compound
5
Q
How are drywall panels typically attached to walls?
A
Screwed or nailed to ceiling joists and wall studs
Drywall consists of 4-ft.-wide panels sandwiched between layers of paper.
5
Q
What should be done after applying a layer of compound over the tape?
A
Remove the excess
6
Q
What distinguishes drywall from plaster?
A
Drywall is applied dry, while plaster is applied wet
Plaster may take weeks to dry thoroughly.
6
Q
What is the recommended tool size for applying the second coat of compound?
A
10-in. knife
7
Q
What are the common thicknesses of regular drywall?
A
1⁄4 in., 3⁄8 in., 1⁄2 in., and 5⁄8 in.
These come in sheets ranging from 8 ft. to 16 ft. long.
7
Q
What is the function of the third coat of joint compound?
A
To feather out the compound and create a smooth surface
8
Q
What is moisture-resistant drywall also called?
A
Greenboard
Named after the color of its facing.
8
Q
What is the proper technique for filling nail holes or screw dimples?
A
Apply compound in an X pattern
9
Q
What type of drywall is recommended for high-humidity areas?
A
Moisture-resistant (MR) drywall
Commonly used in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.
9
Q
What is the correct procedure for applying paper tape?
A
Cover the seam with a generous bed of joint compound and press the tape into it
10
Q
What is the purpose of paperless drywall?
A
To resist mold growth
It replaces paper facing with fiberglass mats.
10
Q
What type of tape should be used for self-sticking mesh tape?
A
Bedding compound must be setting-type compound
11
Q
What does fire-resistant drywall (type X) contain to improve its properties?
A
Glass fibers
These fibers strengthen the gypsum core under fire conditions.
11
Q
How long should the first coat dry before sanding?
A
About a day
12
Q
What is the purpose of using double layers of drywall?
A
To increase fire resistance and sound deadening
More often, a single layer of 5⁄8-in. drywall is used for this purpose.
12
Q
What grit sandpaper is recommended for sanding the first coat?
A
120-grit to 150-grit
13
What is the maximum framing spacing for 5/8 in. drywall on ceilings?
16 in. on center
## Footnote
This helps prevent sagging.
13
What is the second coat also known as?
The filler coat
14
What is USG Sheetrock UltraLight Panels' advantage?
They weigh one-third less than regular drywall
## Footnote
This reduces sag and makes handling easier.
14
What tool is often used to smooth out the second coat?
14-in. trowel
15
What type of drywall is used as a base for single- or two-coat veneer plastering?
Blueboard
## Footnote
It is widely used instead of metal, wood, or gypsum lath.
15
What is the recommended sanding grit for the second coat?
150-grit to 220-grit
16
What tools are commonly used for drywall installation?
Framing square, hammer, tape measure, utility knife
## Footnote
Specialized tools can speed up the installation process.
16
What should be done with the third coat of joint compound?
Use a fine consistency compound and feather out edges
17
What is a key safety consideration when using stilts for drywall work?
They can cause falls and injuries
## Footnote
Many state regulatory agencies ban their use.
17
What is the best practice for the final sanding of the third coat?
Use fine, 220-grit sandpaper or a very fine sanding block
18
What should be done before sanding joint compound on drywall?
Allow each layer to dry thoroughly
## Footnote
This ensures a smooth finish.
18
What type of primer is suggested for finished drywall surfaces?
Flat, oil-based primer
19
What is the purpose of using construction adhesive with thin drywall?
To ensure a secure attachment
## Footnote
Particularly important for 1/4-in. and 3/8-in. drywall.
19
What are the four groups of drywall repairs?
* Nail pops and surface blemishes
* Fist-size holes
* Larger holes
* Discolored, crumbling, or moldy drywall
20
What are common lengths for drywall sheets?
8 ft., 10 ft., 12 ft., 14 ft., 16 ft.
## Footnote
Available in 2-ft. increments.
20
What is the recommended fix for popped nails and screws?
Drive another fastener 1.5 in. away from the popped one
21
What is a drywall router used for?
To make quick, clean cuts around outlets and ducts
## Footnote
It is preferred by professionals for precision.
21
What is the recommended method for repairing lifted drywall tape?
Cut free the loose tape, cover exposed seams with mesh tape, and apply joint compound
22
Why are stilts banned by many state regulatory agencies?
Because they are awkward and can easily lead to falls and injuries.
22
What should be done for small holes in drywall?
Cover the hole with self-adhering fiberglass mesh tape
23
What is the purpose of using benches for drywall installation?
To support platform planks and enable workers to raise and attach panels easily.
23
What is the procedure for large holes in drywall?
Cut back until reaching solid drywall and install a patch backed with furring strips
24
What is a panel lifter?
A homemade tool that raises a drywall panel an inch, leaving hands free to attach it.
24
What is the ideal texture for creating a stippled plaster look?
Thin joint compound to the consistency of thick whipping cream
25
What type of nails are often used to tack up drywall panels?
Ring-shank nails.
25
What tool is suggested for achieving a flat but hand-tooled look on plaster?
A stippled roller
26
How do drywall screws compare to drywall nails?
Screws can be installed faster, hold better, and are less likely to damage the panel's paper facing.
26
What should be done before the compound starts to set when texturing drywall?
Use a rubber-faced Magic Trowel to knock down high spots
27
What is the recommended tool for attaching drywall screws?
A corded screw gun or a drill with a Phillips screw bit.
27
What type of drywall is suitable for mold-prone areas?
Paperless drywall
28
What is the advantage of using a drywall hammer?
Its convex head is less likely to damage the paper facing of a panel.
28
What safety equipment is recommended when working with paperless drywall?
Respirator, safety glasses, long-sleeved shirt, and work gloves
29
What is the purpose of a caulking gun in drywall installation?
To apply construction adhesive for attaching drywall panels.
29
What is the advantage of using mechanical drywall taping tools?
They apply tape and compound simultaneously and create uniform surfaces
30
What is the workhorse tool for taping drywall seams?
A 6-in. taping knife.
30
What should be done to minimize dust when working with paperless drywall?
Use hand tools rather than power tools
31
What does wet-sanding drywall joints help to reduce?
Dust.
31
True or False: Large cracks running diagonally from corners of windows or doors may indicate foundation settling.
True
32
What type of sandpaper is recommended for sanding drywall?
Special black carbide-grit sandpaper.
32
Fill in the blank: The first coat of joint compound is usually a _______.
high-strength taping compound
33
What is the function of corner knives in drywall installation?
To apply mud to both sides of an inside corner simultaneously.
33
What tool is used to knock down high spots and smooth out knife marks in drywall?
Magic Trowel
## Footnote
The trowel should glide and should have excess compound unloaded into a mud tray.
34
What should you do before using new taping knives and trowels?
Sand the edges and corners lightly with very fine emery paper.
34
What type of joint compound is recommended for quick drying and minimal sag?
Setting-type compound like Durabond® 90
## Footnote
This type of compound dries quickly, making it suitable for drywall repairs.
35
What is a dust-free sander used for?
To reduce dust while sanding drywall.
35
What should be done with the edges of a drywall patch before applying joint compound?
Cover with self-adhering mesh tape
## Footnote
This helps secure the patch and provides a surface for the joint compound.
36
What are the three principal types of drywall screws?
Type W, Type S, and Type G screws.
36
What is the recommended action for drywall discolored by moisture?
Wash with soap and water, allow to dry, and prime with stain-resistant primer
## Footnote
This applies if the drywall is solid but has discoloration.
37
What is the minimum screw penetration requirement for Type W screws?
At least 5/8 in. into framing.
37
What should be installed in basements to combat condensation when replacing drywall?
Paperless drywall
## Footnote
This helps prevent moisture issues in humid environments.
38
What is the advantage of using construction adhesive when installing drywall?
It allows for fewer screws and provides peace of mind for screws that miss the mark.
38
What tools are needed for plaster repair?
* Screw gun or cordless drill
* Taping knives (6-in. and 12-in.)
* Mason's hawk
* Respirator for cutting plaster
## Footnote
These tools are similar to those required for drywall repair.
39
What are the two types of joint tape available for drywall seams?
Paper tape and fiberglass mesh tape.
39
What is the first step in traditional plastering?
Nail the lath to the framing
## Footnote
This provides a base for the plaster application.
40
What is the main benefit of self-adhesive mesh tape?
It can be applied directly to seams without needing a layer of joint compound first.
40
What is a key feature of the scratch coat in plastering?
It oozes through the gaps in the lath and becomes a mechanical key when it hardens
## Footnote
This ensures a strong bond between plaster and lath.
41
What are corner beads used for in drywall installation?
To finish off and protect drywall edges.
41
What indicates that plaster should be replaced rather than repaired?
Widespread discoloration and cracks wider than 1/4 in.
## Footnote
This suggests instability in the plaster structure.
42
What are J-beads used for?
To keep exposed ends of drywall from abrading.
42
What should be done if small cracks in plaster are found?
Strip surface paint, clean loose plaster, and undercut the cracks
## Footnote
This prepares the surface for patching material.
43
What is the ideal storage temperature for premixed joint compound?
60°F to 70°F.
43
What is a good method for patching small holes in plaster?
Use plaster washers and screws to reattach the plaster to the lath
## Footnote
This stabilizes the area before applying patching compound.
44
Fill in the blank: A _______ is used to hold enough joint compound to tape several joints.
mud pan
44
What is the best way to ensure a good bond when patching plaster?
Wet the exposed plaster and brush on a PVA bonder
## Footnote
This helps the patch adhere to the old plaster.
45
True or False: Fiberglass mesh joint tape is stronger than paper tape.
False.
45
What alternative material can be used for patching irregular holes?
Pegboard
## Footnote
Pegboard can be easily cut to fit and provides a good substrate for plaster.
46
What should be done with tools after finishing a drywall job?
Rinse them repeatedly with warm water and dry them.
46
What is a cost-effective alternative to restoring plasterwork?
Replacing with plastic or composite reproductions
## Footnote
These options are lightweight, easy to install, and visually similar to plaster.
47
What is the recommended grit for finishing sanding drywall?
220 grit.
47
What is the first step in creating a mold for casting replacement plaster sections?
Support the section that will be removed
## Footnote
This is crucial to prevent damage during the removal process.
48
What is the role of a shop vacuum with a fine dust filter during drywall installation?
To minimize dust by vacuuming at each break.
48
What is a cost-effective strategy for installing plaster ornaments?
Using easy-to-install materials that are indistinguishable from plaster ornaments.
49
What are L-beads used for?
Used where panels abut windows, suspended ceilings, paneling, etc.
49
What should you do if your plaster ornament has a repetitive pattern with damaged sections?
Cast replacement sections by creating a mold from an original, undamaged section.
50
How do flexible arch beads come?
Often in rolls that are presnipped to assume the shape of the arch.
50
What is the first step in removing an ornamental section for casting?
Support the section that you will remove.
51
What are the two broad categories of joint compounds?
Drying types and setting types.
51
What tool is recommended for cutting around the section of plaster ornament?
A circular saw with a Carborundum blade or a reciprocating saw with an 18-teeth-per-inch bimetal demolition blade.
52
What is the main characteristic of drying-type joint compounds?
They dry as water evaporates from them.
52
What should you wear while performing dusty work on plaster ornaments?
A respirator mask and goggles.
53
How long after applying the first coat can you apply a second coat of drying-type compound?
24 hours.
53
What is the recommended material for creating molds for replacement sections?
Room temperature vulcanization (RTV) silicon rubber.
54
What is the nickname for setting-type joint compounds?
Hot mud.
54
What should you do after removing an original section before making the mold?
Use a toothbrush to remove flaking paint and repair any small damage with plaster of Paris.
55
What is a common use for all-purpose, drying-type joint compound?
Used for all three coats.
55
What type of casting material is recommended for large objects like ceiling medallions?
Lightweight polymer such as polyurethane or polystyrene.
56
What is Rule 1 for installing drywall?
Use the longest panels possible to minimize the number of joints.
56
How should you support the mold when casting larger pieces?
In a bed of sand.
57
What does Rule 2 suggest about panel orientation?
Run panels horizontally to reduce the number of joints.
57
What is the purpose of predrilling holes in the replacement piece?
To receive drywall screws with plaster washers.
58
What should you do to minimize butt joints according to Rule 3?
Position them away from the center and stagger them.
58
What should you do if your replacement casting is a lightweight polymer?
Use construction adhesive or white glue instead of screws.
59
What thickness of drywall is recommended to avoid sagging?
5/8-in. drywall.
59
What is a common misconception about soundproofing?
That it is simple and inexpensive.
60
What is the consequence of scrimping on materials when ordering drywall?
Results in weak joints and screw pops.
60
What are the two primary ways sound travels?
Airborne sounds and structure-borne sounds.
61
How can you estimate drywall materials from blueprints?
Walk the job, measuring walls and ceilings.
61
What can help stop structural sounds?
Isolating them with foam or heavy vinyl.
62
What is the recommended factor for estimating square footage of drywall for 8-ft. ceilings?
3.5 multiplied by the room length and width.
62
True or False: Resilient channel screws should all be the same length.
False.
63
What should you do with door and window dimensions when estimating drywall?
Note them but don’t deduct their square footage from the total.
63
What type of flooring can be a better sound suppressor than insulation?
Carpet with a substantial pad.
64
What type of drywall should be installed in moisture-prone areas?
Paperless or moisture-resistant drywall.
64
How can appliance noise be mitigated in an upstairs unit?
By installing vibration isolators and using foam pads under appliances.
65
What is the purpose of flexible 1/4-in. drywall?
Used for curves.
65
What should you wrap forced-hot-air ducts in to suppress sound?
Insulating jackets.
66
What is the optimal moisture content for framing lumber?
15% to 19%.
66
What is the purpose of filling holes around plumbing pipes and electrical cables?
To suppress sounds and stop drafts.
67
What is the recommended storage method for drywall?
Stack panels on the floor rather than leaning against walls.
67
What is the recommended way to soundproof between floors?
Gutting finished ceilings and exposing joists.
68
True or False: You can use construction adhesive to reduce the number of fasteners needed.
True.
68
What is mass-loaded vinyl used for in soundproofing?
As a sound-deadening layer before installing drywall panels.
69
What should you check for alignment before installing drywall?
Sight along studs and ceiling joists.
69
How can you boost Sound Transmission Class (STC) ratings?
Using sound-control drywall such as 1/2-in. Suppress® panels.
70
What should you use to determine if corners are square?
A framing square.
70
What is a crucial detail to remember when installing drywall for soundproofing?
The fewer screws you use, the better the soundproofing.
71
What is a drywall clip used for?
To secure drywall edges in corners with insufficient blocking.
71
What should be done to the gap between ceiling and walls during soundproofing?
Fill it with resilient acoustic sealant.
72
What is the main challenge with butt joints?
They are difficult to feather out and likely to crack.
72
What is the purpose of attaching resilient channel and a layer of 5/8-in. drywall to existing walls?
To reduce sound transmission through the wall.
## Footnote
This method is commonly used in soundproofing to enhance acoustical performance.
73
Fill in the blank: A 5-gal. bucket of joint compound will cover ______ sq. ft.
400.
73
What is the spacing for resilient channel when installed perpendicular to studs?
24 in. o.c.
## Footnote
'o.c.' stands for 'on center,' which indicates the distance between the centers of two adjacent channels.
74
What is a common mistake when ordering drywall?
Trying to piece together remnants.
74
What are the methods to deaden noise between floors?
* Carpeting the floor
* Insulating between joists
* Installing a ceiling of resilient channel and drywall
## Footnote
These methods collectively help in soundproofing between different levels of a building.
75
What is the recommended method for carrying a 60-lb. panel?
Lean the upper part of the panel against your shoulder
75
Fill in the blank: For optimal sound deadening, insulate with special _______.
sound-attenuation batts.
## Footnote
These batts are designed specifically to reduce sound transmission.
76
Why is hanging ceilings considered a two-person job?
To minimize joints while hanging long panels
76
What is the function of applying sealant around wall edges?
To interrupt sound path.
## Footnote
This technique helps in minimizing sound leaks through gaps.
77
What should you do if walls aren’t plumb in the corners?
Take at least two measurements to know the angle to cut the panel
77
True or False: Double walls with discontinuous flooring are effective but do not consume living space.
False.
## Footnote
While effective for soundproofing, they do take up additional living space.
78
What is the maximum variation in measurements before trimming a panel end?
More than 3/4 in.
78
What is the construction of the special 3/4-in. drywall used in the sound studio?
Fabricated from three layers of 1/4-in. drywall of different densities, glued together with elastomeric adhesive.
## Footnote
This construction helps in enhancing soundproofing capabilities.
79
Where should butt ends of panels meet when running them perpendicular to framing?
Over joist or stud centers
79
What is mass-loaded vinyl and its role in soundproofing?
A pliable material that weighs about 1 lb. per sq. ft., used to help sound-deaden crucial areas.
## Footnote
It is particularly effective in areas like electrical boxes and window coverings.
80
How much shorter should panels be cut to avoid forcing them into place?
About 1/4 in.
80
What was the solution for high-performing sound windows in the studio?
Sliding window covers constructed from mass-loaded vinyl and rigid insulation.
## Footnote
This approach allows for effective soundproofing without the high cost of specialized windows.
81
What is a cost-effective way to deal with deteriorated plaster?
Drywalling over plaster
81
How were the ceiling panels installed in the sound studio?
Ceiling panels were cut 1/4 in. shy of walls to ensure they never touch the walls.
## Footnote
This design helps in isolating the ceiling for better sound absorption.
82
What should be done before attaching drywall over plaster?
Repair leaks and control excessive indoor moisture
82
What equipment was needed to handle the heavy three-ply drywall panels?
A drywall lift and supplemental help to hold them flat to the resilient channel.
## Footnote
Due to their weight, special equipment is necessary for installation.
83
What tool can be used to locate ceiling joists or studs behind plaster?
Stud finder or drill exploratory holes
84
What type of screws should be used for ceilings?
2-in. type W drywall screws
85
What should be done to loose or sagging plaster sections before installing drywall?
Reattach them using screws and plaster washers
86
What is the purpose of attaching resilient channel when drywalling over plaster?
To bridge surface irregularities and deaden sound
87
What should be checked before hanging drywall?
Studs are plumb, corners are square, and studs align in a plane
88
What happens if the drywall is installed over an out-of-plumb corner?
The square factory edge will not fit correctly
89
What is the best method for cutting drywall?
Score the paper covering with a sharp utility knife
90
What should you do if the cut edge is rough?
Clean it up with a drywall rasp
91
What technique is used to make outlet box cutouts?
Use a drywall router for accuracy
92
What is the recommended screw spacing for drywall if studs are spaced 16 in. on center?
A drywall screw every 16 in.
93
What is the purpose of construction adhesive when installing drywall?
It reduces the number of screws or nails required
94
What is the ideal depth for screw heads when attaching drywall?
Just below the surface of the panel
95
What should be done if a screw misses the joist or stud?
Remove the screw and fill the hole later
96
What should be done when panel edges meet over a stud or ceiling joist?
Apply two parallel 3/8-in. beads of adhesive down the middle
97
What is the maximum fastener spacing for ceiling joists spaced 24 in. on center with adhesive?
16 in.
98
What is the first step in hanging drywall panels?
Attach ceiling panels first
99
What should be used to elevate workers for ceilings less than 9 ft. high?
Drywall benches
100
What can be used to hang ceiling panels solo?
Two tees made from 2x4s
101
What should be done to prevent slippage when using tees to hang ceiling panels?
Staple strips of rubberized carpet pad to the tee’s top
102
What is the recommended height for tees when installing drywall?
1⁄2 in. taller than the height of the finished ceiling
103
What should you staple to the tee’s top to reduce slippage?
Strips of rubberized carpet pad
104
True or False: It is easier to hang drywall on ceilings than on walls.
False
105
What should be marked on the top plates to help locate studs once they are covered with drywall?
Stud centers
106
What is recommended to use when the ceiling height is higher than 9 ft.?
Rent a drywall lift
107
What does corner bead protect?
Fragile drywall edges and ensures a clean finished edge
108
When hanging wall panels horizontally, what must be level?
The top panel edge
109
What is a homemade panel lifter used for?
To free hands for aligning panels and sinking screws
110
How far should panel edges run past door or window trimmers?
At least 8 in.
111
What is the consequence of running panel edges directly against doors or windows?
Weak joints likely to crack
112
What should be done to achieve the best results when covering curved walls?
Use two layers of 1⁄4-in. drywall hung horizontally
113
What materials are available for corner bead?
* Galvanized metal bead
* Vinyl bead
* Paper-faced beads
114
What type of bead is less rigid and can accommodate corners that aren’t exactly 90º?
Vinyl bead
115
How should galvanized metal bead be attached?
Nail it up, spacing nails 8 in. apart, on both legs of the bead
116
What is the purpose of the Ultraflex® structural corner?
To reinforce inside or outside corners with a flexible spine
117
Fill in the blank: A _______ is handy for raising lower drywall panels snug against the upper panel.
homemade panel lifter
118
What should you do with larger cutoffs from drywall panels?
Use them in out-of-the-way places such as closets
119
What technique can be used for sharper curves in drywall installation?
* Back-cutting panels
* Wetting the panels
* Special-ordering flexible drywall panels
120
What type of compound should be applied over corner beads?
Joint compound
121
True or False: You can use a taping knife to press vinyl bead into a bed of joint compound.
True
