What About Hot Mud?
But . . . they have some disadvantages for the family handyman. 1. They come in powder form, not pre-mixed. You have to mix your own. 2. Once mixed in water, the chemical timer kicks in. Now you better get a move on, because you have limited time to use the batch before it locks up solid. With this timing feature, chemically setting compounds are more akin to gypsum plaster than to joint compound. 3. You also have to clean thoroughly your mixing container and all your pans and tools after each batch. Old material not removed from these will accelerate the setting time of the new batch, giving you even less time to use it up before it hardens. I carry 5 minute, 20 minute, 40 minute and 90 minute sacks of hot mud powder in my van at all times. If I have a large crack or deep cavity in a plaster surface, I can make a small batch of the faster stuff and fill quickly. As soon as it hardens, I can go over it right away with another fill coat, or begin to apply tape. Using chemical compound, you can tape, top and even texture. But unless you are pressed for time, I recommend you reserve hot mud for filling large cracks, etc. and use other joint compounds for taping and topping. For additional information on the advantages and the proper use of quick set "hot mud" compounds, go to my __________________________________________________________ |