sponge sanding drywall question

[wncrjb]

A while back, I was reading on here about using a sponge instead of sand paper to sand drywall...... I gave it a shot and was quite impressed but I now have a question.

What is the best kind of sponge to use?

I used a big, thick soft sponge like you use to wash a car with and the wall turned out smooth but was a little wavy. Would a smaller, thinner sponge make a difference or am I missing a step or 2 here?

Thanks.....

 

[LORDY611]

Re: sponge sanding drywall question

I love this method of smoothing joints. I never had any trouble with various sponges. Use sweeping motion well past compound, dont get too wet. Easier to add water than to let it dry. Rinse sponge frequently, and dont pour the dirty water down your drain. I think you'll be sorry if you do. All that gypsum will settle in your pipes and traps and you'll have trouble before long.

 

[wncrjb]

Re: sponge sanding drywall question

Thanks lordy611, must be I don't have the right technique quite yet. I was hoping I could blame it on the sponge :devil: LOL
Do you rub with the joint or across it?

Thanks...

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: sponge sanding drywall question

Nice circular motion works for me.

 

[LORDY611]

Re: sponge sanding drywall question

depends on how big the bump is. I now work harder at doing a GOOD job with the knife so I dont need much sponging. Use your hand to feel for smoothness. It should be nearly dry when you are done sponging an area. Just enough water to soften it a bit. Thinking about it now, scrape big bumps with a dry joint knife, then sponge. Feather edge into non-compound areas. If you get a bit too deep, put on another coat, let dry, sponge smooth. Think of it as sandpaper without the dust.