Why does the Vinyl Spackling compound( joint compound ) when applied to the sheetrock cracks , particularly in thick (
by RAVI
+5
deep ) areas ?
What can be done to overcome?
Is there any additive that can be used to add to the spackling?
When I added some water in the mix, it got worse.
Robby N.
What can be done to overcome?
Is there any additive that can be used to add to the spackling?
When I added some water in the mix, it got worse.
Robby N.
8 answers
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Water is the issue, Robby. There is so much of it in regular compound, that it shrinks dramatically when it evaporates and cracks. You must either put it on thinner or use a different material. One good option is Durabond Quickset that comes in a powder form that you mix with water. This product does not shrink and sets up rapidly. It is available in different drying time versions from 20 minute to 60 minute. You can also purchase the more expensive regular type compound that is higher quality and has less water. One version is called Lightweight and comes with a blue top. Best, Charles
![Peace Painting Co., Inc.]()
Peace Painting Co., Inc.
on Dec 10, 2011
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I agree with Peace, particularly on the recommendation to put it on thinner. That will really help. Taking the time to do more thin layers really pays off in the long run. Less sanding and less cracking.
![3po3]()
3po3
on Dec 10, 2011
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Vinyl spackle is not joint compound, so it could be the wrong product is causing the trouble. Are you trying to do repair or ? The premixed lightweight is OK for a topping finish mud but has less bonding agent so it will crack more rather than less. Agree that Durabond is a good choice, but DB 90 is better than DB 60 for a novice - longer working time
![Nichter's Home Services Corp]()
Nichter's Home Services Corp
on Dec 11, 2011
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Thin to win....is my motto. Some folks can "do" a drywall job in 2-3 coats I like to mine in 4 or so. Generally sanding is only done before the last coat and after the final...which by then is very minimal. for "big" fills using the "setting" kind is a good place to start...then finish with light regular coats.
![KMS Woodworks]()
KMS Woodworks
on Dec 11, 2011
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Thanks for all your suggestions and ideas.We are using the compound as a patching material to fill and cover gouaches and holes etc , typically up to 1/4 " thick. In the past we have always used the joint compound to fill holes, irregular surfaces etc. The only thing that needs to overcome is the hair cracks in thin areas and bigger cracks in thick built up areas. I wish there was an additive or something that can be added to this joint compound to avoid the cracks and shrinkage.
![RAVI]()
RAVI
on Dec 11, 2011
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The proper additive for cracks is paper tape
![Nichter's Home Services Corp]()
Nichter's Home Services Corp
on Dec 11, 2011
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please let me know how to use the paper tape you mentioned. I use the tape to join the 2 sheet rocks - is that the same tape you mean?
![RAVI]()
RAVI
on Dec 11, 2011
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Ravi, that is exactly what Nichter meant. But in your case your cracks are from to thick of layer of spackle that you applied, not damage in the wall caused by cracking. You should use the quick dry mix your own spackle instead of the pre-mixed stuff. It does not shrink and dries really fast. So you can do another coat if needed. This is the product that Peace Painting told you about in the first posting.
![Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com]()
Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com
on Dec 11, 2011
Peace Painting Co., Inc.
on Dec 10, 2011
3po3
on Dec 10, 2011
KMS Woodworks
on Dec 11, 2011
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