In fact, after you fix a hole with spackle, the surface can be sanded and painted within an hour whereas when you fix it with joint compound, itll take a lot longer to dry. It usually comes in a white paste primarily made of limestone and water. With spackle, you can apply it and be painting your walls within the hour. Joint compound is a thick, muddy substance that is used to patch drywall seams and generally just fix walls. There are different types of joint compounds, but most people choose an all-purpose compound because they can use it in all construction phases. DuraBond is a setting-type joint compound that can be mixed into various consistenciesthicker for deeper holes because it is self-drying and doesn't need air exposure; thinner for shallow holes and for skimming. Generally speaking, dry formulas last a bit longer than wet formulas, making joint compound, which is not premixed, last several months longer than premixed spackle. Understanding which tool to use for your patches and reinforcements is a serious make or break type of deal. I always use joint compound if I can help it, but that stuff dries rock hard and must be sanded flat and painted. Its actually a regional speech difference, so if you want to call joint compound mud, you absolutely can. The price between joint compound and spackle is another difference worth mentioning. Joint compound shrinks so much that many pros apply multiple layers to get the surface fully finished. If you have joint compound thats left in the container but dried out, you can rewet it by adding water to the mix. Spackle (especially the lightweight variety) dries too quickly for the kind of coverage needed to make big repairs or install drywalljobs which definitely call for joint compound. Once the holes are filled and covered, let the spackle dry. One of the best parts about using spackle to repair minor drywall is how quickly it dries. However, joint compounds have a longer drying time. Heck, both of these items even have similar consistencies and are found in the same parts of your local hardware store. Similarities of Joint Compound vs. Spackle. Joint compound is sold in 1 quart containers to a 5-gallon buckets. Plaster contains similar ingredients as spackle and joint compound, but with the addition of sand. It really all comes down to the kind of job youre needing to accomplish. When comparing them, joint compound is lighter and harder to apply while spackle is thicker and easier to apply. When comparing them, joint compound is lighter and harder to apply while spackle is thicker and easier to apply. Consider these pieces of information when choosing the right compound for your next project. Even drywall joint compound, which is a gypsum product, can serve as spackling compound, as can some . Then, a trowel helps to apply and smooth the joint compound over the joint tape. Joint compound, otherwise called drywall mud or just mud, features gypsum dust as a primary ingredient. It takes some skill hide the seams, but when it's applied correctly joint compound creates a smooth, unblemished surface. Before we continue though, its important to have a good understanding of what joint compound and spackle are. It is also versatile and is highly useful for conducting minor repairs. You can find them in several sizes to fit various tables, so Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you. Today we are going to chat about what to use to fix a hole in the wall. Repeat as necessary. You also may be aware that spackle is typically used to patch up holes in the walls. Spackle is easy to use, while joint compound can be challenging to smooth out. If you go to the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, or other parts of Europe, things change. Both joint compound and spackle are used for wall repair and construction. You would see that through the primer and paint? This makes joint compound the clear winner when conducting larger-than-average repair jobs. However, joint compound is used for large projects. They consist of similar ingredients, and to the average person unfamiliar with either of them, they look the same. In other words, if you have some leftover after an install and need to repair a hole, you can use the joint compound instead of buying some spackle. If youre needing to fill in and cover some small holes in your drywall, then youll want to use spackle instead. At the same time, joint compound is more versatile than spackle, offering two-in-one functionality. Curing Time Joint compound takes longer to dry than spackle. Since spackle also tends to rewet fairly easily, there is a chance that this could cause damage to the repairs you already made. Let the spackle dry according to the manufacturers instructions; apply another coat if necessary. If youre thinking about using joint compound vs. spackle, you might be wondering where. Use a joint compound in place of spackle in a pinch. Now, that doesnt mean you cant fill holes with a quality joint compound, but joint compound typically dries much slower than spackle. Spackle dries inside of an hour, but a joint compound takes roughly 24 hours to dry. 2. If you are preparing to install or repair a wall, keep reading to learn the differences between joint compound and spackle. If you have a lot of area to cover, then the larger bucket is the better choice. spackle is almost more like clay, it'll dry and shrink. Both can dry out quickly in the air so only mix up what you are using at that moment; Shrink when they dry Spackle- dries quicker than joint compound in less than 30 minutes. Spackle is not durable enough to fill a screw hole for reuse. Lighter Spackle is generally made from vinyl and used to smaller fill holes made by nails, pins, and needles. Many old houses have an "L" header with the 3-1/2" vertical on the outside for the trim to fasten to. Typically, you use joint compound when youre hanging drywall. When placing slabs of drywall next to each other, youll need to join the seams. Furthermore, you can find the "Troubleshooting Login Issues" section which can answer your unresolved . Spackle is the preferred choice for small repair jobs, as it dries in 30 minutes. Stir gently, and you should be able to use it again. Painters use caulk and spackling compound to fill gaps and holes, but that's about all these two materials have in common. Wood putty is meant to fill holes in wood and help even out wood surfaces. They are also both used to make walls smoother, especially when it comes to repairing holes. Spackle is a little more expensive than joint compound. Her interests include art and real estate investments. Remove excess spackle with the putty knife. As such, it is commonly used for taping and finishing drywall seams. Caulk and spackle are not interchangeable, nor are they even made for similar purposes. Doesn't spackle have a texture to it though? Both may be used to repair drywall (seam repair, hole-patching, skim coating, etc. Sand the surface down until you have a smooth surface. Spackle, on the other hand, is meant to fill in holes in walls made from plaster and drywall. The multiple types of joint compounds available to average consumers also increase this learning curve. If youre putting up drywall, you will most likely need to get joint compound. The lengthy drying process means youll play the waiting game before busting out that paintbrush. When making minor repairs to plaster or sheetrock, spackle is the way to go. Is there really any difference, and when should you use each tool? If you need joint compound, you need a level of density that spackle doesnt have. If youre used to working with spackle, just be aware that joint compound tends to shrink a lot more, so you might need to layer it, and it will take longer to dry. Spackle vs. Joint Compound | The Big Differences. Know that you can use spackle and joint compound for some of the same jobs, but these are two different compounds with different uses and behaviors. Use spackle for simple wall repairs, such as fixing dents or filling in nail holes. After some drying time, you sand everything smooth. Which do I think is the best, Dry . As a result, the overall cost is typically higher. It will crumble if used in larger spaces than recommended. While you might be tempted to use plaster in place of joint compound in larger projects, it wont give the same smooth finish you get with joint compound. Using joint compound instead of plaster allows you to get a smoother wall surface with less manual effort. However, you cannot use spackle instead of joint compound. Even under optimal temperature and humidity conditions- drywall mud may still take as long as 12-hours to fully cure. Spackling compound, or spackle, has a thicker, paste-like consistency than joint compound. When directly comparing joint compound to spackle, youll find some stark differences. Inspect it to see if more applications are needed. This makes it ideal for repairing more extensive damage to walls, including holes. Feel free to substitute drywall mud for spackle for small drywall repairs. However, if youre trying to cover a large area, thicken up a wall, or you want a surface thatll be easy to sand, then joint compound is the better pick. The similarities end there, however, as they have various formulations that affect factors like dry time, shrinkage, and project scope. Spackle, also known as joint compound or "drywall mud," is not as durable as true drywall. Take note that while joint compound is most commonly used on drywall, spackle can be used on both drywall, plaster walls, and even wood. Putting caulk on a wall hole will make it very difficult for paint to cling to the wall properly and will also potentially damage your overall texture. ), spackle is generally more expensive and a little more versatile than joint compound. First, youll typically have to mix it up in the container, though some brands offer joint compound as a premixed formulation. Great for adding extra layers for increased durability. Its only limitation in this application is its self-drying feature. Be careful, as its easy to end up with spackle that is too watery to use! Spackle on the other hand is the more appropriate pick for smaller jobs like covering nail holes and other minor blemishes on your walls. Joint Compound vs. Spackle Highlights Joint compound is extremely durable and suitable for drywall installations. Prepare for your next home project by ensuring you have answers to all your questions about spackle and joint compound. The price between joint compound and spackle is another difference worth mentioning. But once dry, it doesnt sand as easily as a joint compound. Was worth mentioning in this article that for purposes of painting over the repaired wall, you must apply a wall primer to joint compound or you will notice "flashing" or a paint sheen difference. If youre planning on using joint compound, youre going to need joint tape. The main difference between Spackle and Joint Compound is Spackle, and Joint compound is Spackle has a liquid texture, but Joint Compound has consistency little thicker. Then apply the joint compound, letting it dry completely according to the manufacturers instructions, before sanding and finishing. The short answer is that you cant use it in place of joint compound, but you can use it in place of spackle in small projects. This, in turn, becomes one of the bigger differences between joint compound and spackle abroad. The end result after using joint compound (left) versus spackling (right). However, unless you want anything more than a slim layer, joint compound is probably the better choice. Then paint, and you have a completed wall. Both of these products are valuable for their specific jobs. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. You can use joint compound instead of spackle. It's thicker than joint compound and harder to spread. Youre better off going back to the hardware store for more drywall mud instead. If you attempt to install a screw or anchor in joint compound, it will pull out of the wall. Joint compound is available in powder or premixed form. Let it dry for 30 minutes before sanding smooth. Joint compound has use in more significant projects such as drywall installation and larger drywall repair projects. Joint compound is designed to fill in gaps between drywall panels. To make sure that your patches stay in place, its better to stick to joint compound for rooms prone to humidity. Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you. Spackle dries more quickly with less shrinkage than joint compoundand that fast dry time (usually about 30 minutes) means. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). There, spackle is generally called Polyfilla, and is actually slightly different in chemical makeup compared to American spackle. Blue Sheetrock Joint Compound Features Because of its lightweight, this product dries quickly and is easier to sand down than the green lid option. Joint compound is the best choice when it comes to fixing large holes and cracks in addition to covering the seams between two pieces of drywall. It has a similar consistency to cake frosting or mud. You might use more joint compound for one project, but it costs less per quart. We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. . Anytime you cut or sand material that creates dust, protect yourself by wearing the appropriate protective gear. Joint compound has a high-quality finish, while also saving you the trouble of having to sand. Always wear a proper dust mask or respirator and goggles when sanding these compounds. Spackle costs more, but you use so little of it that a quart will last you forever. If you have spackle, you cannot use it in a job that requires joint compound. Heavyweight joint compound is used for the base layers because it is a denser material. Joint Compound vs. Spackle People often assume that joint compound and spackle are the same product. As someone whos been there, I totally understand the confusion. It also allows you to spread a thinner coat that can be more easily sanded when the project is finished. Check out how these products compare so you can make the best choice when it comes to your home repair projects. Joint compound is the better choice for taping and finishing drywall seams whereas spackle is the better choice for filling in small to large sized holes in your walls. Here are some of the major pros to using joint compound for your next wall building or repair project. Personal preference aside, these products will both patch holes but the size of the hole may determine which one to use. A major difference between spackle and joint compound is the latters frosting-like consistency, whereas spackle is thicker. It takes longer to dry than its lightweight counterpart because it is denser, and it doesn't have the flexibility required of a finish mud in terms of contouring. If youre just trying to fill some holes and want to spread a thin layer, then spackle is the best choice. Apply mesh tape or a patch to the prepped surface, covering the hole completely. Joint compound will take care of both large and small repairs in drywall, but you usually have to wait to let it dry overnight before sanding. fits into the mix. Spackle dries inside of an hour, but a joint compound takes roughly 24 hours to dry. The short answer is no. When using joint compound at the initial phase of drywall installation, youll have to apply joint tape, lay down multiple coats, and sand it down to ensure an even layer. Since joint compound is usually used to cover large areas, more of it is needed. Spackle dries faster than joint compound. What makes it great at what it does also makes it challenging to use. It comes premixed, eliminating a frustrating step for some, and requires little or no experience to get it right. Believe it or not, spackle is the more expensive option when it comes to a pound-by-pound basis. Spackle is also a thinner paste thats easier to spread. Sand, prime, and paint. However, there are more robust versions than an all-purpose compound that you might want to consider. Even better? Ossiana Tepfenhart is an expert writer, focusing on interior design and general home tips. It also is technically a trademark name that is supplied by the company that created it, Muralo. A drywall hole that has been filled with spackle will not support a screw. Here are some ways in which these two drywall tools differ. To use spackle: After you have sanded down the surface, you can then paint or tile your wall the way you want. Because joint compound shrinks so much, multiple applications are usually needed to get the surface fully finished. This is when you would look for a particular type, such as an acrylic spackle for other surfaces, including brick or wood. The short answer is that you cant use it in place of joint compound, but you can use it in place of spackle in small projects. If you have to choose one of these two tools, its best to err on the safe side and pick drywall mud. You can also buy a quick-drying version thats in powder form and add water. Topping compound: Boasts the perfect thickness for spreading on a wall after using a taping compound. While you can be a little rougher with joint compound as it is usually applied over large areas, spackling is usually thicker in texture. Then cover the seam or hole with joint tape and apply joint compound to the wall. This will keep your joint compound or your spackle fresher for a longer period of time. Using spackle would be very difficult and take quite a long time to get the job done. But they can also include things such as perlite, talc, and silica that help it lay smooth. This stuff can be used in almost any situation that spackle can, and then some. Compared to joint compounds classy finish, spackles finish is rough, splotchy, and absolutely requires sanding after an application. Spackle does smooth out better while wet. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It can be used to fill gaps, cracks, and holes in the . Spackle is made for small repair jobs. Now that you know just about everything there is to know about joint compound and spackle, you should have no problem deciding which one is the better choice. (add enough water so that it's more like pudding and less like mashed potatoes) Top coat with the all-purpose joint compound or with lightweight pre-mixed joint compound (Sheetrock Plus-3, for example). Showerhead clogs can be caused by deposits of calcium, magnesium, lime, silica, and other minerals in hard water, especially well water. Katelin Hill, Bob Vila, patch it with a piece of drywall, some joint compound and a reinforcing scrap of lumber, 11 Ways to Make the Most of Your Towns Curbside Cleanup Day, Cool Tools: The All-in-1 Fix for Just About Any Hole in the Wall, Know Your Moldings: 10 Popular Trim Styles to Spiff Up Any Space. This propensity toward shrinkage is not a huge deal when initially installing drywall, however, thanks to the inclusion of joint tape and, of course, multiple coats. Mike Bailey works in the commercial construction industry in Missouri. Quick-setting compound: Dries quicker than other compounds, making it ideal for fixing cracks and holes. When trying to decide whether to use spackle or joint compound, always consider the job at hand. Joint compound and spackle are two fantastic products that are designed to help you fix the imperfections on the walls in your home. We are also a member of several other affiliate networks. It's a versatile product that doesn't shrink as much as other options. So, if the damage is on something other than drywall or plaster, spackle is probably a better choice. Spackle on the other hand tends to get used more to cover holes. Once applied, wait the necessary 30 minutes or so, and then carry on with your next steps. Though a great choice for fixing small holes and the like, spackle is not a great choice for the initial installation process. This all depends on what youre trying to do. Whats the difference between joint compound and spackle? Spackle also shrinks, but it just doesnt do it nearly as much as joint compound. Spackle takes only 30 minutes or so to dry completely. Choosing the right product for home repair projects is half the battle, especially in the world of wall repair and construction, where youll find both joint compound and spackle. Spackle varieties, meanwhile, include lightweight spackle (made with a vinyl binding agent) suitable for small repairs and an all-purpose formulation (made with acrylic) ideal for holes up to to inch in diameter. Theyre similar to one another, but each one also has their own purpose. Most all spackle comes in a convenient container ready to use, and although a lot of joint compound does too, there are some you have to mix yourself before applying. Shrinkage: There is also a massive difference between joint compound and spackle when it comes to shrinkage. There are different types of joint compounds, but most people choose an all-purpose compound because they can use it in all construction phases. This special construction tape is typically either a paper or mesh fiber that holds drywall slabs together. Joint compound, also known as drywall compound, is a putty with a plaster-like consistency that is intended to be used on larger projects. A drywall hole that has been filled with spackle will not support a screw. Most homeowners are going to need spackle for the majority of their projects. By Katelin Hill and Bob Vila | Updated Oct 17, 2022 2:06 PM. A premixed joint compound is convenient because it does not require mixing with water. Joint compound features the same main ingredient as drywall itself, along with limestone and perlite, contributing to its renowned durability. The great thing about joint compound is its versatility, as it shines with the initial installation and with conducting minor repairs. The thing that you need to remember about joint compound is that the more compound you put on, the more youre going to have to sand down. Spackle is used for small home repairs. However, when you go to the store, you wont pay as much for spackle because you probably wont need as much. To help you choose the right tool for your job, were going to explain everything you need to know about each. It is very durable when dry, but this makes it difficult to sand down smoothly. While applied similarly, they are different products, each with its own pros and cons. Here are the major advantages of reaching for a spackle tub for your next drywall repair project. Both products are putties used in wall repair and drywall installation. However, spackle is generally designed for smaller holes in drywall or plaster, while joint compound is typically needed to distinguish between sheetrock boards during construction. Neither product is particularly expensive, though, so its a wash here. Are Joint Compounds and Spackles Safe to Use? Joint compound is susceptible to shrinking and cracking if not applied properly. Both names refer to the exact same thing. But, isnt that what joint compound does, too? As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Theyre both primarily made of gypsum powder. Spackle does not fare well in areas that are prone to high humidity, such as a bathroom where people regularly take hot showers. But what makes them different also impacts their use. On the other hand, if youre all out of joint compound but have what looks like enough spackle to patch a large hole or finish your drywall installation, hold off. In other parts of the world, Polyfilla/spackle isnt actually made out of gypsum. Since joint compound is usually used to cover large areas, more of it is needed. Take a Minute to finally learn the difference between spackle and joint compound! Different formulas work better for different surfacesepoxy spackle works best for wood, for examplebut all of them will work better than joint compound. Valspar vs. Behr, Which Is the Better Paint? If youre about to tackle wall installation or repair, read on for the 411 on joint compound vs. spackle to handle the job like a pro. A joint compound is used to seal gaps and seams in drywall. Joint tape can be purchased at most home improvement companies and is available in two different kinds, paper and fiberglass mesh. Spackle generally costs more than $14 a quart, but youll buy one bucket and use it forever. Fixing a few small holes in the wall dont require than much spackle but covering the joints between panels does require quite a lot of joint compound. Joint compound does take a while to dry, up to 24 hours in some cases. Joint compound is the better choice for taping and finishing drywall seams whereas spackle is the better choice for filling in small to large sized holes in your walls. Apply spackle with a putty knife. There are some spackle-specific cons worth considering before starting your repair project. Use joint tape when working with joint compound to hang drywall or repair large areas. Using a putty knife, just apply the spackle to a hole. That is caused by the porosity of joint compound. Thats just not the way it is with joint compound. Its made from cellulose. While spackle can't stand in for joint compound - it dries too quickly to be smoothed out properly - you can use joint compound in place of spackle. When your drywall needs to be repaired, you have the choice between joint compound and spackle. This will allow you to cover the seams. Then, a trowel helps to apply and smooth the joint compound over the joint tape. Spackle is more expensive than joint compound, but you use less of it per job. Joint compound tends to crack if used in too thin of an amount. This handy, dandy gypsum-based compound is the go-to choice for repairing small cracks, nail holes, or gouges in drywall. Painting Over Powder Coat and What You Need to Know, How to Get Rid of Humidity in a Basement Without a Dehumidifier, How to Fix a Crack in Drywall That Keeps Coming Back. The reason why deals with the durability of the joint compound. It is substantially less expensive than joint compound and usually comes with a brush on one side making it easier to apply the product." Joint Compound vs. Spackle Local drywall pros use joint compound during the initial installation process after affixing the large sheets of drywall board and taping the seams between each board. Fixing very large holes may also require joint compound, as will doing things like patching up holes with tape. Which is best for . Spackle will not hold up when it comes to sanding. The best thing you can do, whether youre using spackle or joint compound, is to make sure you put the lid back on the container when youre finished using it. Anytime youre unfamiliar with a product that you need to work properly for you, its wise to learn what affects its performance. This translates to another crucial step while patching up holes, but also increases cleanup tasks after finishing the work. Among professionals, joint compound is also called drywall compound, or drywall mud. During drywall installation, contractors affix large sheets of gypsum board to a walls framing, apply drywall tape to the boards seams, and then cover the tape with joint compound. Use joint compound if you have more extensive wall repairs or holes to patch. This mineral deposit may block the canal, which will prohibit A table runner adds a festive touch to your decorative tablescape, provides protection from spills, and helps tie your design together. After some drying time, you sand everything smooth. You can use joint compound instead of spackle. But joint compound is usually thin enough to be quite unaffected. However, when faced with the decision of having to pick between the two, which one should you choose? To keep the powdered mixes from going bad, make sure you only mix enough for the job youre about to do. Spackle is simple to use, suiting most DIY drywall aficionados. So, how are joint compounds and spackles the same and how are they different? REthority is reader-supported. Always wear a proper dust mask or respirator and goggles when sanding these compounds. Patching a drywall hole with spackle is simple when considering that paint is used to cover up any imperfections. Typically, you use joint compound when youre hanging drywall. Whereas caulk is a flexible coating that resists moisture, spackling compound dries hard and isn't water-resistant. Spackle, made of gypsum powder and binders, has a gooey paste-like consistency and is sold pre-mixed in tubs. So, use it sparely. Spackle is not durable enough to fill a screw hole for reuse. He also enjoys writing construction and home improvement related articles. Filling in a nail hole or repairing a series of imperfections is an easy DIY, especially when you follow these tips. This works because it holds up well in small spaces. This is how we keep the lights on (i.e. And when two products have some overlap in their intended purposeas spackle and joint compound dothe choice can get even trickier. Joint compound has a longer working time, which could be ideal if you are unaccustomed to taping drywall seams. Best of all, it can handle larger projects and even sealing. Wallboard Joint Compound Vs Spackle will sometimes glitch and take you a long time to try different solutions. Writing is her life, and it's what she does best. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. It's used to fill small dings and dents, like nail holes, in walls. Also, dont forget to cover it up after use to prevent it from completely drying out. It's one of those things that you know aren't the same product but aren't r. Spackle is used in a small area compared to a large area for joint compound, thus costing more. pay for content, product research, guides, and more). For holes in drywall or plaster that are smaller than a half-inch, opt for a premixed spackle and follow these steps: A similar technique applies for medium-sized holes or cracks in drywall or plaster measuring several inches, but opt for joint compound and reinforcing mesha backing material typically made of aluminum that, once adhered to damaged drywall or plaster, gives the joint compound something to bind to. Let dry before sanding smooth. Sand down recently spackled areas to level it out with the rest of the wall, and then lay down the paint color of your choice to match your home decor. Stateside, spackle is just spackle. Joint compound is made by mixing gypsum dust and water into a paste. Joint compound takes a long time to dry, often 24 hours or longer. https://www.youtube.com. The consistency of joint compound is thinner. Everyone knows spackle. when entered into the human body. That said, if you're not careful, spackling can also flake off and break apart if you don't apply it properly or if you try to sand too soon. There are also various types to choose from, adding to its versatility. Both are applied by spreading them evenly over surfaces, sometimes over fiberglass mesh or joint tape. If we link to any product, you should assume that well receive a commission when you buy it, at no extra cost to you. This is the most commonly used joint tape, and its probably the easiest to use as well. If youre used to working with spackle, just be aware that joint compound tends to shrink a lot more, so you might need to layer it, and it will take longer to dry. Both joint compound and spackle are sold in pre-mixed and powdered forms, which means you get a lot of control over the consistency. (Actually, youll need multiple types!) Smooth the surface with sandpaper when completely dry, and wipe away any remaining dust. With that said, some spackle is now being rated as waterproof. Just be aware that joint compound runs the risk of shrinking, which calls for multiple coats and a longer dry timesometimes up to 24 hours. Spackle is a little more difficult to reuse, simply because you might not have enough to make it worth reusing. If you attempt to install a screw or anchor in joint compound, it will pull out of the wall. However, spackle on average is more expensive, but because you dont have to buy as much, you end up paying less. But they can also include things such as perlite, talc, and silica that help it lay smooth. Joint compound is extremely durable and suitable for drywall installations. Were going to go through each aspect of their use, their purpose, and what you should expect from each. All told, spackle goes bad in around nine months, while a non-mixed joint compound lasts slightly over a year. It works with joint compound to reinforce the drywall beneath and create a smooth finish on your walls. However, when in doubt, consider how much you need to use. In addition to this, joint compound is also more dense, thicker, and all-around durable. With that said, there are a lot of differences that you need to know about before you grab a bucket of compound or spackle. Just confirm that on product directions. Spackle is better suited for smaller repair jobs such as filling in nail holes and covering up dents and small cracks in walls. Is Spackling Compound the Same as Joint Compound? Standard: Standard spackling compounds use gypsum in their formula, which is the same material used in drywall. Joint compound and spackle contain materials such as silica and gypsum, whichare harmfulwhen entered into the human body. With a little bit of finish work, the joint compound helps create a smooth surface with undetectable seams. Spackle works wonders in small spaces, as long as you know how to use it. Why does that matter? So, it has three names rather than one. You can use multiple layers to fill in and thicken up certain areas of a wall. How Much Does It Cost to have Someone Finish Drywall? All-purpose compound: Great for installation and all phases of wall-patching. Spackle is a lot like joint compound in the sense that its spread on walls and is meant to patch up holes. With spackle, you will need to gradually add more water in small spurts. The main difference between Compound and Spackle is that Compound is somewhat simpler to shape and sand, while spackle will establish properly in difficult cracks. Spackle comes in two categories: Yes, but not in the United States. It dries too quickly, significantly reducing your working time. If we link to any product, you should assume that we'll receive a commission when you buy it, at no extra cost to you. Look at the job you need to be done. If you have extra joint compound, you probably can use it in place of spackle. Visit the Solution Center to Explore Articles, Photo: KatarzynaBialasiewicz/ iStock/ Getty Images. It will crumble if used in a larger area. Copyright 2022 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Make sure you choose the right spackle if you go that route. Its usually comes in a pre-mixed container for your convenience and is commonly used for taping and finishing drywall seams. If you take a look at how theyre applied or what they look like, you would think theyre basically the same thing. It comes premixed, features an amateur-friendly application process, and one tub lasts a long time (as you only use it a bit at a time.). To a point, you wouldnt be wrong. This is a tough one. These extra joint compound applications are both time consuming and sometimes a hassle. Joint compound and spackle contain materials such as silica and gypsum, which. Subscribe to Ask Any Difference! Joint tape, a paper or plastic mesh roll of tape used in drywall construction, is put over the seams. Builders don't use spackle for initial construction, but instead for repairs. However, spackle on average is more expensive, but because you don't have to buy as much, you end up paying less. Home Homeowners Improvements Spackle vs. Joint Compound | The Big Differences. Spread some of the spackle in and over the hole youre trying to cover. Spackle is designed to dry quickly with little or no shrinkage, which makes it a bit more convenient if you want to get on with your painting. Cant You Just Substitute Joint Compound for Spackle? It's just not thick enough, even if you do multiple passes with it. Lastly, spackle is much easier to use. Joint Compound vs. Spackle: How to Choose. If necessary, replace the damaged drywall with a new piece. Spackle is the preferred choice for small repair jobs, as it dries in 30 minutes. 12 Colors That Go With Burnt Orange in 2022, The 19 Types of Levels for Your Toolbox in 2022, The 10 Types of Pavers for Your Patio in 2022, The 10 Main Types of Bathroom Faucets in 2022, The 90 Best Buying a Home Quotes to Use in 2022. Spackle, however, is typically made of vinyl and is used for filling small holes, cracks, and blemishes made by screws, nails, and pins. All you do is apply it with a putty knife, spatula, or palette knife and then wipe off the excess with a rag. If you're redoing a wall or a room, you may need joint compound. Caulk is meant to seal items, making them watertight. This is why pros make multiple trips when installing some drywall and why putting up drywall costs an average of $1,800. Types of drywall mud include all-purpose joint compound designed for easy application to drywall seams, quick-setting joint compound thats better suited to patching jobs because it dries more quickly, and taping and topping joint compounds, which are applied in sequence over drywall tape. There are four main types of joint compound, each with its own unique purpose: Nope! Apply it full strength across the joints and at corners for bedding the tape. Do this for all the seams you want to cover. Both popular putties are used in wall and ceiling repair and construction, and they look almost identical to the untrained eye. Never use joint compound without priming it afterward. It bonds readily to wood, brick, stone, and even metal. While you generally use spackle for minor repair jobs such as touching up nicks in your walls, you might need it to go the extra mile. Well, after applying a compound, youll want to paint, sand, apply sealant, or otherwise finish the wall. Anytime you cut or sand material that creates dust, protect yourself by wearing the appropriate protective gear. Joint Compound vs Spackle! As a result, the overall cost is typically higher. Joint compound does take a while to dry, up to 24 hours in some cases. It only averages $8 a quart, but you use a lot. Spackling compound, often identified simply as spackle, is available at any hardware store, and it's inexpensive, costing about $5 for a pint container. However, you cannot use spackle instead of joint compound. In fact, spackle dries out much faster. Cut the tape to the exact length youll be needing. Anytime youre unfamiliar with a product that you need to work properly for you, its wise to learn what affects its performance. 2.1K Dislike Share. Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=109961. They include: Spackle on the other hand is a name brand product made by Muralo Company. So, how are joint compounds and spackles the same and how are they different? Both can even be rehydrated and reused. Spackle comes in small tubes, whereas joint compound arrives in large containers of 1 gallon or more. Angle the knife about 45 degrees and run it in downward motions until the hole is filled. When would you use one product instead of the other? Joint tape, a paper or plastic mesh roll of tape used in drywall construction, is put over the seams. That means less dust and less mess than spackle would offer. It generally works best when used with joint tape. If you have a large repair job and would typically use a joint compound, spackle will not work. As a result, most purchases that are done for joint compound tend to carry a higher price tag. . Spackle compound is a relatively thicker compound used in wall repairing jobs and for filling in cracks, holes, or gaps. How Do You Get Rid Of Hard Calcium Deposits In The Shower? Home repairs is picking the correct product to use, things change cause damage to the hardware store more. 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