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How To Fix Drywall Seams After Painting?

Since the COVID-19 pandemic took over the world, it seems that we’re all turning to do things ourselves. That means DIY home projects to fill in our time and endless internet searches on how to do them properly, including tackling home painting projects or giving rooms a complete renovation makeover.

Whether you need a fresh coat of paint or want to change the color of the room, painting can actually be a relaxing and rewarding project to do yourself, but there are certain guidelines you should follow so it’s done properly the first time around, particularly if there is uneven drywall or loose drywall mud after they’ve just been hung. After the drywall installation process, you should take extra precautions before diving into painting.

Repairing Drywall Seams After Painting

It’s essential to tape and mud the walls properly to avoid so everything blends in, however, mistakes happen.

What You'll Need:

  • Drywall knife
  • Utility knife
  • Sandpaper
  • Drywall tape
  • Drywall joint compound
  • Topping compound
  • Pail or garbage bagPail or garbage bag
  • Paint
  • Primer
  • Vacuum

Step 1: Getting Started

Drywall mud, also referred to as joint compound, is used to hide drywall seams, joints, or corners following new drywall installation. It's also used for drywall repairs such as holes or cracks. The end results should be a nice, smooth finish. Professionals will use different kinds of joint compound during different stages of the process, but all-purpose joint compound is also available for homeowners to purchase. However, sometimes this isn't as strong as the others.

Applying drywall tape and mud should actually be done in stages. After each stage, let the mud dry overnight before you fix drywall seams. If you want it to dry quicker, have a heater running in the room.

Extra tip: Paper tape is much less likely to show through paint than mesh tape.

Step 2: Sand Between Coats of Joint Compound Application

Before applying each new coat of joint compound, you need to sand it down to smooth it out, otherwise, you're going to end up with excess compound that's chunky and unappealing. Wait until it's completely dry to start sanding. Remember, as you sand away excess mud, have a pail or garbage bag ready to catch it or you'll have quite a mess to sweep up afterward.

Step 3: Scrape Away Excess/Loose Mud

If any air bubbles formed, pop them with your drywall knife. This is where you'll also pull up any loose tape with the help of your drywall knife and scrape away any loose mud. You may need a utility knife to actually cut away the loose tape. Now you're ready to apply your second coat. Once the second coat dries, apply a third coat and repeat the above steps.

Step 4: Add Skim Coat

Once you're done applying multiple coats and they've all dried and been sanded, adding a topping compound can really make your drywall seams completely invisible after painting. You'll need to sand it again, but it's a lot easier to work with. It'll blend in well with the edges and corners, limiting any uneven seams.

Step 5: Add Drywall Primer

You never want to paint a drywall surface without adding a primer first. Without it, it'll appear very uneven and even textured. However, before you prime it, make sure to sand down all of the walls again and vacuum them to ensure there is no drywall dust left behind. If there is a lot of dust, wear a dust mask as protection. Let it dry and then proceed with painting.

Before adding the final coat of paint, add a second layer of primer.

Matte Paint Will Help Hide Drywall Imperfections & Drywall Seams Better

If you’re still worried that drywall seams or the paper drywall tape will be noticeable, opt for matte paint. This type of paint creates more of a smooth surface appearance and does not reflect light. It’s the perfect choice for both walls and ceilings in any room of your home. Semi-gloss paint, however, does reflect a lot of light and is known for showing imperfections. You’ll really need to make sure you’re prepping the drywall correctly as any bumps, dust, or seams will show.

Professional painter coating roller with blue paint

Need Help With Drywall Repairs & Painting?

If you’re wondering how to fix drywall seams after painting your walls or have had trouble hiding seams and tape in the past and don’t feel like tackling it alone this time, give our professional team of contractors a call today. Located in Canton, MA, we have many years of experience handling issues such as bulging drywall, repairing holes or cracks left by drywall nails, hiding any drywall seam or tape, and more. You don’t have to tackle this project by yourself. We’re here for you.

Contact us today to get started on your project. We'll also provide you with a free quote!

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About the Author

Jamie

Jamie Cox

Jamie has spent three decades in the painting business delivering superior workmanship for happy customers. A proud member of his community, Mr. Cox works hard to provide superior attention to detail, unparalleled customer service, and competitive pricing packages. ProServ Painters began out of a place of love and experience, and has retained its excellent standing through Mr. Cox’s unwavering customer loyalty.

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