Instructions
The ideal tool for the do-it-yourselfer or contractor, the Taping Tool applies both mud and tape simultaneously to drywall seams. Faster and easier than bedding tape manually, the Taping Tool does in one-step what is otherwise a two-step process. The Taping Tool lets the user adjust and maintain a consistent coat of mud under the tape. The Taping Tool is a helpful aid in achieving a properly bedded tape joint prior to finishing coats and sanding.
- Mix Bedding Mud:
Mud to be used in the Taping Tool should be thinned and mixed to a smooth, creamy consistency so that it is just able to pour like cake batter. Use a separate mixing bucket for mixing the bedding mud and use a drill and mixing bit. - Feed Tape Through Housing:
Unlatch all three black latches and remove cover. Do not use “hot mud” or “fiber tapes” with the Taping Tool. Use with 21/16” width tape. Install tape roll onto hub. Feed tape through the back slot and out the front slot. Push tape ‘up’ against the top of the housing. (Note: To keep tape from unrolling during use, adjust the tape tension by tightening the gray dial.) - Pour Mud Into Housing:
With tape against the top of the housing, pour mud into taping tool until full. If mud won’t pour, it is still too thick. - Adjust Mud Thickness:
Rotate Mud Control Knob to desired thickness. It is recommended to begin with a setting between 2-3. - Run Taping Tool Along Seam:
Your hand should fit snugly under the strap. Adjust the side strap by loosening the screws. To begin, hold end of tape at top of seam. Once started, gears will engage for tape for automatic dispensing. You are applying the right amount of mud if a 1/8” to 1/4” excess bead appears on both sides of the tape. - Cut Tape Using Taping Knife:
When ready to cut, place knife firmly across tape. Use a quick upward twisting motion against the taping knife to produce a clean cut. You may want to practice on a few short strips to learn the technique. A utility razor could also be used. Always leave about 2” of tape in front of the gears after the cut, as the weight of the mud may pull the tape back into the housing. - Embed Tape:
After applying tape, smooth seams with a 4-6” taping knife to embed tape and remove excess mud. - Corners:
Apply tape to corner seam. Use taping knife or corner trowel to push tape into the corner. At end of seam, use corner of taping knife to puncture and cut the tape. - Clean Up:
Use warm water and a brush to clean out the housing. Red gear assembly and Mud Control Knob should be removed for cleaning. Clean all mud residue from inside the Mud Control Knob. - Finishing Seams:
Once all seams have been taped, you are ready to apply finish coats. After taping coat is dry, apply a 6-8” wide coat of mud over the tape. When this is dry, a final 12-14” wide coat should be applied using a wide taping knife.
Let the final coat dry 24 hours or longer, until there are no damp spots. After the compound has thoroughly hardened, lightly sand all joints with a medium (120 grit) sandpaper. Use a sanding block and take care not to dig into the compound or rough up the drywall. A damp sponge can be used to smooth and remove any sanding marks.