Better Warm-Weather Drywall Finishing (NAPSA)—Warm weather and remodeling seem to go hand in hand. If you’re tackling a remodeling project or putting on an addition, you'll want to take certain precautions when using drywall. That’s because summer weather— whether it’s hot and dry or wet and humid—affects the performance and working qualities of the joint compounds that conceal gypsum paneljoints. A good first step in any drywall project is to use high-quality gypsum board panels. United States Gypsum Company’s SHEETROCK Brand Gypsum Panels, for instance, snap cleanly, requiring less rasping and joint compound. Also, stick with brand-namejoint treatment products, which offer reliable consistency and performance. Some additional good-sense practices to consider when finish- ing drywall: When the weatheris hot and dry, use setting-type joint com- pounds such as SHEETROCK Brand Lightweight Setting-Type Joint Compound (Easy SAND”), as these products harden quickly and help minimize the effects of very fast drying conditions. Work shorter lengths in orderto finish each section before the compound becomes too dry. Prevent extremely rapid air movement from reaching wet joints, especially if a thin-consistency mix is applied. This combination can cause cracking. When conditions are wet and humid, allow each coat of compound to dry thoroughly before applying subsequent coats. Don’t rely on a visual inspection to check joint dryness. Use settingtype or lightweight setting-type joint compounds, as their rates of Whenfinishing drywall, it helps to usetheright joint compounds. hardeningare virtually unaffected by high or fluctuating humidity. No matter what the weather conditions, be sure to follow these basic installation practices: DO keep tools and mixing containers clean at all times. Always use clean water for mixing. DO add powder compounds to water when mixing—not water to powder. And sift compounds when pouring. * Do use 150 grit or finer sandpaper when sandingall-purpose joint compounds. DO remove all sanding dust from surfaces prior to decorating. DON’T roughen the surface paper of drywall panels when sanding. This raises the nap of the paper and can cause joint and fastener areas to remain visible after decoration. DON’T begin painting before the joints are thoroughlydry. For more drywall tips, write to United States Gypsum Company, 125 S. Franklin St., Chicago, IL 60606-4678 or call (888) 874-2450 and ask for the company’s Quality Drywall Finishing in All Kinds of Weather brochure.
