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Rant: I still use a hawk and trowel for taping and everyone thinks I'm crazy

On a big Reno job last month, the foreman pushed hard for me to use a bazooka tool for the long hallway ceilings. I stuck with my 12 inch hawk and 6 inch trowel. It took me about 3 hours longer than his method would have, but my joints were way smoother with less sanding later. The mud control just feels better in my hand. Am I the only one who still prefers the old way for finish work?
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3 Comments
blair630
blair6301mo ago
You're right about the finish being cleaner. I read a post from a guy who said a hawk gives you a better "feel" for the mud, which lets you catch little problems before they dry. That control is worth the extra time.
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jessec35
jessec352mo ago
You said it took longer but your joints were smoother. That's the whole point. I've seen guys with bazookas leave ridges that need a ton of sanding. If you're good with a hawk, the finish is just cleaner. On a high end job, that extra time is worth it. Let them laugh until they see the final coat.
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wood.zara
wood.zara2mo ago
Guess the guys laughing are the same ones who think drywall mud is a food group.
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