Drywall & Plastering Glossary for Erie Homeowners

A metal or plastic strip installed at outside corners of drywall to create a straight, sharp edge and protect against dents and damage.

Panels of gypsum plaster sandwiched between paper, used for walls and ceilings. Standard sizes are 4x8 feet. The most common wall material in Erie homes built after 1950.

Drywall with glass fibers for increased fire resistance. Required by code for garage walls, utility rooms, and certain multi-family separations.

Thin strips of wood or metal attached to walls or ceilings to create a flat surface for mounting drywall. Used in Erie basements over uneven concrete or masonry walls.

A paste used to cover joints, screw holes, and imperfections in drywall. Applied in multiple thin coats with sanding between for a smooth finish.

Paper or fiberglass mesh tape applied over drywall joints before joint compound. Prevents cracks from developing along seams.

A popular wall texture created by spraying joint compound and then flattening the peaks with a wide knife. Common in Erie homes built in the 1980s-2000s.

The highest quality drywall finish, with a skim coat over the entire surface. Required under gloss paint or critical lighting. More expensive but provides a perfect finish.

Drywall with water-resistant facing (green board) used in bathrooms and kitchens. Important in Erie homes where humidity and moisture are ongoing concerns.

A bumpy wall texture resembling the skin of an orange. Applied with a spray gun. A common texture in Erie homes that can be matched during repairs.

A thin layer of joint compound applied over an entire wall surface to create a smooth, even finish. Used to repair textured walls or cover imperfections.

Smoothing dried joint compound with sandpaper or a sanding sponge between coats. Creates a seamless surface for painting. Proper sanding is what separates professional from amateur drywall work.