Had to pick between a 12-inch or 14-inch taping knife for a big ceiling job

I was working on a full basement finish in a new build over in Maple Ridge last week. The main rec room ceiling was huge, maybe 500 square feet. My usual 12-inch knife felt too small, but I was worried the 14-inch would be too heavy and hard to control for the long passes. I went with the 14-inch, loaded it a bit lighter than usual. First coat was a bit shaky, but by the second coat I had the rhythm. It covered way more area per pull, so I saved a solid hour and a half on the job. My shoulder was definitely feeling it by the end, but the finish came out super flat. Anyone have a trick for keeping a bigger knife from getting too heavy after a few hours?

3 comments

3 Comments

roberts.aaron1mo ago

My old foreman in Surrey always said to tape the handle for a bigger grip. Honestly, I find the 12-inch is the sweet spot for control on ceilings, even if it takes a few more passes. The extra time is worth it for my arms at the end of the day.

smith.matthew1mo ago

My arms hurt just reading about ceilings, mate.

murray.gray1mo ago

Did you try switching hands partway through? I find that helps a bit.