DON'T USE DRYWALL BUCKET MUD!! Use this instead...(Quick Setting Joint Compound / "Hot Mud")

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When Most DIYers need to do drywall or plaster repairs, they rush out and get a bucket of pre-mixed drywall mud. Though convenient, this joint compound can be a waste! This video from The Honest Carpenter will show you a better solution for doing small drywall and plaster repairs--QUICK SETTING JOINT COMPOUND!
Quick Setting Joint compound is sometimes called "Hot Mud" in the construction industry, because it hardens by a chemical reaction, rather than an evaporative process like pre-mixed bucket drywall mud.
Quick-setting compound comes in a variety of grades--the various numbers on the bag indicate hardening time -- either 90 minutes, 45 minutes, 20 minutes, or even 5 minutes. This is your working time after you mix it. So, you need to get the quick setting joint compound on the wall before it begins to harden!
HOW TO MIX QUICK SETTING JOINT COMPOUND / DRYWALL MUD / HOT MUD
1) Dip some water into the bottom of your mud pan
2) Dump a little joint compound onto the water
3) Stir joint compound and water back and forth until they begin to mix
4) Look for a consistency similar to peanut butter for most coats
5) If joint compound looks too soupy, add a little more drywall mud powder.
6) If joint compound looks too thick, add a little more water with a sponge
AVOID OVER-MIXING! You just need to get the parts stirred together, then it's ready for use for filling dips, craters and gouges in drywall and plaster repair!
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[@stargateproductions]

My concern as a finisher is that hot mud doesn't sand well, for your average DYI person who is not experienced with it they may apply it too thick. All purpose can last up to 6 month or more after opening. Make sure you keep the bucket clean, and some water on top of the mud.

[@pchow1970]

Just use topping coat (blue bucket) as final and sanding will be much easier, if done properly, you shouldn't have to sand much

[@johnnytocino9313]

Haha. One od the brands for hot mud is " easy sand". Easy sand my arse! Watcb professionals. They put mud on super thin. Just enough to coat what they need. One otwo more time over th same areas is still better than putting mud on teo thick and having to sand for days.

[@shure46]

"All Purpose" doesn't sand well either , dries harder , but sticks the best for taping and best for final texturing (more glue and dries harder) ..... "Lightweight" sands best , but not a good choice for taping .... has less "glue" in it ..... Tape with all purpose , bed with lightweight , final skimcoat with all purpose , texture with all purpose for BEST results ..... but you CAN do anything with Lightweight EXCEPT TAPING ...... Don't Tape with it , you'll be sorry

[@TDZ43]

I have a bucket of dust control that is at least year old. I just added water little by little while mixing in between and it's fine not clumpy or anything. It was the first time I tried it(water), if it was still bad I wouldn't have used it (small repairs).

[@tripstarwellman1570]

So many experts in here 😂 I like hot 5 min for any repair in plaster or drywall, it's a setting compound, video never mentions setting vs. conventional vs. lightweight etc. Ready mix aka bucket mud is convenient and neater but mudding is messy stuff and you should have a drop cloth down anyway silly!! And buckets have a shelf life. Someone said 6 months. Ok. Use it 🤷‍♀️ I use a sponge to sand until final sanding before primer, at that point I use high grit sanding block/screen. Happy finishing. Thanks for a good vid

[@victoryak86]

As a carpenter I used to use the buckets and finally tried the quick setting mud and have never gone back. I love that at a certain point, say half way into the 45 minutes stuff, it is to the point that you can knock off ridges and work it a bit to reduce imperfections. About twenty minutes later the second coat, same process. The last coat is much easier and you can do a whole repair in a few hours or less depending on the size. This product also sets up MUCH harder than the bucket stuff, more like plaster. So much better. I can’t believe the amount of wasted time and money with the other stuff, often with a less perfect finished product.

[@ThatKiltedGuyDIY]

I warn my channel viewers against using hot mud if they are not skilled at putting it on flat. Most novices want to put it on thick and sand it smooth and hot mud is very difficult to sand and you will usually damage the drywall around the hot mud trying to do so. Plus, most novices take way too long to apply hot mud and can end up with the mud setting up in their pan to the point where they have to chisel it out and possibly ruin tools. And yes, regular joint compound can go bad over time, but stored properly, with a little bit of water on top like the manufacturer recommends, it will be good for many months in a cooler garage or something. A lightweight joint compound is much more forgiving for novices. But with the proper instruction on how to apply it to where you don’t need to sand anything but the edges, it is a great product and that is what I teach on my channel. I recommend novices to use regular weight all purpose joint compound for taping, and it will work for other things although it does sand a little bit harder. And if taping a repair with mesh tape, you absolutely must use hot mud. But for most everything else, novices should stick to a lightweight joint compound.

[@csuss]

I really like the fibafuse tape and have used that with premixed Plus3 for some patching of larger holes- my results have been good. Is that a mistake? Perhaps it acts differently than standard mesh tape?

[@user-rg4iw3yb7x]

Director, can I use 90 to apply some thickness? Is it solid? Can I mix colors with it or on top of it? I want a material close to Venetian plaster. What do you advise me? Thank you for everything you provide.

[@Megahieron]

I've had this exact mud sitting for a couple of years with only occasional use. I can add a bit of water if needed. Buckets are okay.

[@douglasemery3986]

I've been using bucket of mudd since the 80's. Use what you need and then with a brush you clean inside of bucket with water and leave water on top until next use.

[@geodude6244]

Takes too long to dry unless you don't mind taking your time and don't want dust and the mess

[@harryl7946]

Just keep the mud in the bottom together. Sprinkle a little water and reseal it. I opened one from 3 months ago, left some on the sides and had to clean it out so it didn’t get into the ‘good’ mud. Applied heat and poof! Hot Mud! 🤣 Nah, just knifed it onto the area of need and waited 24 hours before sanding and finishing. That’s the only part I didn’t like about bucket mud - 24 hour wait between coats.

[@johnarizona3820]

Prob depends on the climate. Here in WA state they do go bad quickly. I tried bleach to fix and uhhh, NO. I rehydrate now with 70% Iso Alcohol.

[@randybobandy9828]

@@geodude6244 all purpose mud is sandable hot.mud sands like shit. They both have their place.

[@TommyJH54]

From a professional standpoint, I’ve done fairly sizable repairs completely in one day using hot mud. If this video is for a DYIer, I would recommend buying the smaller containers of all purpose pre-mix. They sell it in containers as small as 1.76 qt.for around $4.00. If a homeowner is tackling a drywall repair never having done it before, they certainly don’t need to be battling a time limit or improperly mixing the powder too. Mud isn’t that expensive. Keep it simple for the DIYer! Good video though.

[@A.S.P.R.]

I agree. For a DIY, bucket mud is the safest product to use. If you are going to fill anything deeper than 1/4" however, bucket mud (pre-mixed, joint compound....whatever you want to call it) is going to take forever to dry and will most likely shrink and crack. But yes, 'hot mud' or 'Easy Sand' or Dura-bond....whatever you want to call it, is a challenge for a DIY. But they can use 90 min pretty safely. If you can't get the stuff on in 90 min....well..........

[@andoniades]

Good, someone said it. Guess I didn't have to. But I understand why he made the vid. For content.

[@thelogician1934]

The ready mix is too soft, the plaster is easily scratched.

[@dwade6322]

Im a long time painter who occasionally has to do decent sized patch work and repairs on walls..Can you please give me the basic reason why quick setting mud isnt normally used to do entire houses when drywall guys are finishing the drywall ? I figured 20 minute mud would be worth the time as long as you had a partner mixing up batches for you as you go through the house...Less dru time to wait and as long as you apply it thin enough not much harder to sand than the slower drying mud right? I heard some guys use quick setting mud to finish new drywall...is that true? If not,why? I would appreciate any answers on this,thank you.

[@rayray8687]

@@dwade6322: There are multiple reasons why tapers do not use setting compounds to tape an entire house. Here are a few in no particular order. - Setting compounds have a maximum setup time of 90 minutes and once they begin to set it is almost instant. You then have to COMPLETELY clean any pail, tray or tool used before you can mix up another batch or the next batch will set even quicker. You can’t just add powder and mix up another batch. - Setting compounds also take a long time to dry even though they set quickly. - They are not nearly as smooth as regular mud and do not feather out well when sanded - They tend to spot through the paint job if they’re not top coated with regular mud - The taping crew will be in the house for several days so there is no need for quick setting compounds - Setting compounds are enormously expensive compared to regular mud They’re great for deep repairs and for a first coat on smaller jobs but they invariably have to be top coated with regular mud to get a nice job. They have a definite place in the construction industry but not for general drywall finishing, and frankly they are never promoted as such.

[@mikewidget7610]

level off whats left in bucket and pour a skimcoat of water on it. Will last for years!

[@donr3407]

You beat me to the good tip thanks bro.

[@jasnonya3005]

Absolutely correct

[@shaneb1619]

@@jasnonya3005 absolutely...this guy needs to stick to carpentry.

[@singerh74]

I opened my bucket (small one) after about 4-5 years in the garage, it had a film of water on top but smelled like a cow's ass🤮🤮🤮

[@donr3407]

@@singerh74 Ha, did it still work?

[@greggin9116]

Thank you Ethan! As you know, I’m not a professional and don’t claim to be, but I enjoy all aspects of learning diy remodeling and fixer upper topics. I was encouraged to use the all purpose bucket because it would be easier (ie: I couldn’t mix it wrong, it would be easier to work with, etc..). We’ll, I ventured out and now can say I’ve used both the “bucket” and the “bag”! I’m glad I did! (On an inconspicuous laundry room wall). Each have their place. For me, I’m staying with the bag. As long as I keep it dry, I can mix the amount I need for the next project. What I learned as a “newby/wannabe “: probably better to start with longer working time... otherwise, the lower the number the quicker the lesson!😁. Thank you for your videos!

[@georgeobama-biden8670]

keep a bucket, and a small mixer/cordless drill. add some water, and spin until consistent. bucket mud is the way to go for small repairs.

[@mikecoffman2821]

Umm he isn't a professional either..

[@juzoli]

“If you get delayed between coats” -> Yeah, if I get delayed between coats by months or years, I will buy a new bucket. Both the scenario and the expectations are very unrealistic. In real life, I wait about a day between coats, and since it is good for weeks after opening, it is perfectly okay, And they have all the sizes, so I need to buy the small one, so the rest don’t go bad on me. By the way, I just reopened one which was like 1 year old, and it was still not bad. I had to mix it thoroughly though, and it had a slightly different color after drying, so I wouldn’t use it at prime location, but the point is that it goes for a long time.

[@MAGAMAN]

I have waited months between using mud from the bucket and never had a problem. Keep the lid on lightly while you are working, don't contaminate the bucket with mud you have already used, and seal it up tightly when done. It will last a very long time. I have a bucket scoop that is only used to remove mud from the bucket which prevents any contaminants from the walls, tape, etc from getting back into the bucket.

[@michaelhaeflinger3423]

Oh please!!!!! Throw a bit of plastic wrap on top when you’re done and it’ll stay good for a long time. Mine lasted over 6 years with no problem. It’s not rocket science.

[@mountaingirl2928]

Lol he has no clue. You win a prize lol Put some plastic sarandwrap on top the mud to the edge. And later just wipe out any dry residue . These guys on UTube just don't know.. And I'm a female drywall pro

[@steviem5279]

@@mountaingirl2928 My dad is a retired house painter and the premixed bucket of mud would last a long time. People forget that when you open the bucket there is a round plastic sheet right on top of it that instead of throwing away you can use to put back on top of the compound to keep it moisture in if not just get any old plastic bag or plastic drop cloth and use that. If he didn't cover it with plastic he would just pour some water on top and make sure the lid seals the bucket and all is good. He would also add water to it to thin it out for the final coats of the skim coat. The key is simple, just wipe clean the inside of the bucket with a sponge so that the bucket is clean as that is the part that dries up over time.

[@robertthomas5906]

Sometimes you get away with that. I did that on a bucket, lasted for a couple of years and was fine, then the next time I opened it which was about a year later it had lots of black fuzz all over the place. You're far better off mixing your own mud. Get the 15 or 20 minute, make small batches. It's great. I'm to the point where I mix almost exactly what I need for a job.

[@elmerdane]

@@robertthomas5906 oh you go get some 15 min hotmud eh?

[@elmerdane]

#1 its free anyway #2 water noob #3 call a pro

[@jonyork999]

I always use a mix of both. Sheetrock 90 for the first couple layers, followed by regular "dust control" pre-mixed mud for the final coat. Easy sand, and you can get the mudding done in 1 day.

[@CARPETMAN-zj9iv]

I remember when my first bucket molded up. After that I just started adding 1/2 capful of bleach when I opened it and started in good and it keeps it good for a few years.

[@michellegilliam2892]

Thanks for this lesson on quick setting mud. I have a request for you and Philip for when you do another patching video - show us how to patch relatively large areas and also how to tackle corners. I live in Arizona where have lots of citrus and roof rats who eat them. My house was damaged by rats and now I have lots of drywall patching to do. Small spots I have handled with the patch squares you can buy. But I am unsure how to handle corners and larger openings. Thank you so much for your great videos!

[@WorldsOkayestSorcerer]

I’ve had a bucket that was opened sitting in the corner for two months. Still perfect shape. Worked in construction for years and we never once used anything other than the bucket mud. Don’t worry about working with the pre-mix. Just remember to add water and loosen it up for texturing with a brush or roller.

[@xinixxagnix201]

lol after 6 years it is still 100% allright (seal broken) ))

[@demotutt6369]

Hello sir can I ask u a cple question

[@ozzstars_cars]

Exactly @shawn conn

[@JimDean002]

If I'm putting it away for a while I'll throw a little water on top with a teaspoon or so of bleach in it to stop mold, and I've never had a bucket go bad.

[@ozzstars_cars]

@@JimDean002 what's the secret to storing sausage? 😁 Sorry I couldn't resist.

[@e-vd]

Good tip. Hot mud definitely has its uses. In my experience it's great for patch work. But, for covering large areas the extra glue in the All Purpose bucket mud is the way to go. Also, I tend to get small bubbles/ pock marks when applying hot mud. I fill these tiny holes with a different product in the final coat. Still, I do like the fast drying action of the hot mud. It definitely speeds up the process.

[@mae2759]

Inexperienced DIY guy here. Just patched 3 holes in my bathroom from ripping out towel and toilet paper bars. Used Plus 3 bucket mud (blue bucket at 0:08 in the video). I thinned it down with water in my pan so it was kind of runny. Results were fantastic! Went on easy and sanded great. Additionally, that bucket was used about a year and a half ago to patch some ceiling drywall from installing an attic ladder and it was still usable! No issues what so ever with the quality.

[@dougberrett8094]

Years ago, there was a material that I liked. It came out of a small can and set up almost immediately. Synkoloid’s Spackling Paste. Great stuff. Also mixed paste from powder. The brand was Spackle. Worked well. I have used the premixed stuff in buckets, and have kept it useable for long periods of time by putting plastic on the top and then a little water on the plastic. Synkoloid’s and Spackle were my preferred items for small jobs. This video is excellent advice for small repairs, now and in the future. You only mix up what you need. Also I have found the multiple coats due to shrinkage are NOT necessary as they are with the bucket stuff.

[@tlnn6598]

I’ve had a 5gal bucket in my garage for over a year and the content is STILL like new. Secret: Add a little dishwashing liquid when you first open it up. Give it a good stirring and you’re good to go.

[@bulldogsv2]

Turn the bucket upside down. It forms a nearly airtight seal. (Works on paint and glues too.)

[@peterkizer6163]

Yep, I turn all my paint cans over - after making sure the top is securely pounded down!

[@maxi-me]

@@peterkizer6163 you sound like a pro. Why is it that a can of primer opened the same day as the finish paint will mold in a few months whereas the finish paint doesn't?

[@AshiStarshade]

@@maxi-me Primer is just a less stable product. It's not designed to be as hardy as paint. It's like comparing pants and underwear.

[@maxi-me]

@@AshiStarshade thanx. Makes sense, what with it being considerably cheaper and all

[@AshiStarshade]

@@maxi-me I think some paints are even cheaper than good primers, but they are definitely different :) I had some primer on some wood that looked so good that I felt tempted to leave it that way, but the handyman said nope, and he was right. There are webpages that talk about the differences.

[@edferculo8887]

Good day Ethan. Just subscribed. Huge knowledge presented by you in a way I understand. After 40 years in construction buy not sheetrock or plaster repairs aside from patches. I have learned so much in five minutes. I’am subscribed to all so keep it coming. Have a safe holiday

[@MAGAMAN]

Too bad he is completely wrong on this. The bucket will last for months after being opened.

[@woohunter1]

Remodeler here, I usually use quick setting for the first coat, then bucket for second and third. Reason I do this is, the quick setting is a lot harder to sand if you use it on final coat.

[@A.S.P.R.]

Do you hand sand or use a drywall sander?

[@joshn3042]

We do 2 coats of hot mud where I work, then final coat with light weight. But same thing pretty much

[@VC-Toronto]

I prefer hot mud for the first pass and sometimes second pass as it tends to shrink a bit less than premix (IMHO) so less premix (which shrinks a bit more) is needed on the subsequent passes.

[@urdad9853]

I've been doing the same for years.....this way I can get my bed coat n one more coat in a day then next day is ready for last coat.....no prob

[@LUckybones25]

I agree. Never finish with hot mud.

[@kevinconrad2250]

A lot of people that end up with moldy mud is because they take mud out of the bucket, use it to tape and then try to put it back in the bucket in stead of throwing it away. When you smear mud on walls or tape and then take it off it gets tiny fibers of paper in it. These pieces of paper are what serves as food for mold to grow.

[@ILruffian]

Bingo. Don't be cheap and throw worked compound back into the bucket.

[@azdeh1894]

@Marie Aussie did you add water to it? heck I wouldnt doubt high humidity trapped in a bucket would cause it.

[@joycealabama876]

@@azdeh1894 I did put unused mud back in bucket. GUILTY!

[@MAGAMAN]

@Joyce Marie Then you contaminated your mud some other way.

[@MAGAMAN]

@@azdeh1894 Drywall mud is already high humidity. Adding more water wont change that.

[@jsh3234]

I tape with Durobond 90 then my second coat once the 90 sets, with sandable setting type then when that has set, finish off with a coat of light weight bucket mud. And go back the next day to finish sand or just sponge it off. This system cuts down on having to go back and forth to the job by one.

[@julianarchuleta2830]

I hang commercial grade drywall and finish level 5 with automatic finishing tools, bazooka, flat box.......every day I’m still learning, great video dude!!!

[@dienekes4364]

I just learned about this. This is definitely the next mud I'm going to get.

[@lordrichard8184]

A big advantage of getting the mud you mix yourself is you can change the set time simply by changing your water temp. I always buy the 90 minute mud since it has the longest work time and is also the easiest to sand. If I need to do a quick dent fill right before I paint. I can mix hot water with the 90 minute mud and have it dry in a few minutes. If you use cold water it’ll take longer.

[@MAGAMAN]

I'm guessing you never skim coat walls. Using Hot mud would be a huge waste of time.

[@DrMathOfficial]

​@@MAGAMANplease explain?

[@lunarmodule6419]

And another important thing is the thickness of the coat you can apply. Super important! Pre-mixed will let you put 6 mm to 13 mm, if you put more it will take for ever to set and will crack. These pre-mixes are for very shallow cracks. If you need thickness, mix you own stuff.

[@Mang213]

I almost always use buckets. Never had a problem, just need to toss a bit of water in there for obvious reasons. Only issue I've ever had is sometimes getting mold to overtake the bucket. But thats rare too if you store properly

[@michaeljohnston7450]

Been building and remodeling for almost thirty years. I've never had a five gallon bucket of mud dry out or mold. I like the 20 minute mud for first coat. Then premix top coat.

[@thomash1284]

Drywall finisher 32 years....I use hot mud all the time but it neither sands well nor paint well. Typical patch for me is 20 minute, next coat 20 minute then relatively thick lite weight mud....your average homeowner should use 45 or 90 but ALWAYS final coat with all purpose or lite mud....my 2 cents

[@ward185]

Drywall finisher for 27 years I agree 100%. Plus the ready mix will keep fine for a few months if the lid is on and the sides are wiped down

[@stevenm.6886]

Yes, I’ve used 20min for yrs. but have learned to topcoat with plus3 as it accepts paint with no issues

[@NewBluesBros]

A buddy showed me this stuff 10 plus years ago and its great to be able to get jobs done faster because the joint compound couldn't dry fast enough. Depending on how much I need to do I will use 20 or 45 and then use the blue lid on my final coat.

[@barryulrich2170]

Homeowners and hot mud do not mix. Use a fan to speed drying time of premix mud and save yourself a lot of grief. Hot mud does not sand flat, you will sand through the gyroc around the patch and still have a lump on the wall.

[@llBanell]

Steven M. professional painter and drywaller here, who's dealt with various compounds and muds. ALWAYS prime with wallcolor before doing 2 coats of paint. you'll never have an issue.

[@ezu5131]

In my experience both are useful for different purposes. The ready-mixed stuff is great for large fill coats while hot mud is better for small jobs, taping, and filling gaps (with mesh tape). But yes for small jobs the bucket will be an absolute waste.

[@josephgries4683]

I use that exact product for small repairs around the house. Got a tub that sat in my basement for 2 or 3 years and is still fine.

[@alluchini2995]

I store my dry mud in a plastic cereal container it makes it alot easier to take with me to different jobs it also has a flip open lid for easy pouring and keeps it dry.

[@rrmorris67]

I have used that exact stuff countless times. I finished my entire basement, bathrrom and bedroom, walls and ceilings, garage walls, a couple kitchen and bath remodels. Whats the problem?

[@IggyPelman]

Quickset and regular drywall compound have different and specific purposes. Quickset is better for using as a fill because it doesn't tend to shrink as much but is harder to sand. Drywall compound is used to finish the wall's surface. And if your bucket of drywall compound has dried out then add water. What I'd avoid is the more expensive dust control compound as the difference is negligible.

[@shawnstone8924]

Wrong dude. Quickset is easier to sand, which is why it's not supposed to be used as a top coat. Other mud dries harder and is better for high traffic areas. We mix a whole bag of 45 first then use bucket mud after, this giving us 2-3 coats of mud in 1 day. Day 2 sanding

[@randomrazr]

so if u skim coat a wall, avoid quick set, go for reular all prupose? which brand do u ecomend

[@mrfixit0067]

I usually use the small buckets for small jobs. I am not really concerned if it last for another job. I find the boxed mud is best for the West Coast with really low humidity but in Florida I preferred the 20 powdered mix as you go. The high humidity makes for longer dry times!

[@MDC2020]

Solid video my guy! Good stuff.

[@yzmoto80]

When you have been in the trades for a while (33 years for me), you will learn how to work a bucket of mud. Until that time, happy hot mud sanding to you !

[@bricemantel6619]

The package or bucket says "sand if necessary"......lol

[@HipposaurusRex]

I do drywall repairs all the time and I only use hot mud. If I'm hanging new sheets I'll use all purpose for the longer working time, but for small repairs it doesn't make sense to make multiple trips, so hot mud it is. If your technique is good there's not a whole lot of difference in sanding time between the two.

[@MAGAMAN]

@@HipposaurusRex This video isn't aimed at pros, it's aimed at amateurs and it is going to make a mess for anyone who takes this terrible advice.

[@nickbrannon3251]

I recommend homeowners use premixed and finish with a sponge to reduce dust

[@roccomiers477]

I have used pre-mixed compound for years. It does take a bit to dry, but I have never had a problem with it. I have used "hot mud" on rare occasions when I need to do several coats in a single day. However, most of my spackling is done via pre-mix. I believe that pre-mixed compound is the way to go about 80% of the time.

[@getyourfeelgoodbackbjones1576]

I used some that I bought 3 months ago. I covered it with plastic then put the lid on it. Works great.

[@dougiedamit]

Yes, the mud can dry out if you leave it open. If you really want to seal it up after use place some plastic wrap (saran wrap, etc..) directly on top of the mud to create an air tight seal.

[@JasonHoningford]

It's not going to dry up in one day lol! I have some that's lasted years. I'm finally throwing it out though. Time to go blow $7 on another bucket of premixed, oh noes!!!!

[@mz_martina]

😄😂😄

[@almarosas7990]

lol

[@joshd108]

20 minute mud is my favorite. I do patches frequently and it will be ready for sanding in 15 minutes or so if you hold a hairdryer on it.

[@montufaraj7066]

that is awesome, I did not know about this. Always have to buy new container for home repairs. Just found your channel and found it very informative, already watched 10-20 vids.

[@duanedelperdang1749]

Highest respect for people who do a qualty job with this kind of work. It's not easy.

[@MAGAMAN]

It's actually pretty easy. It's one of the favorite things I do on the house I bought because it is so easy. Floor tile on the other hand is something I never want to do again!

[@sidsid9808]

I have used mud from opened bucket even after 3-4 years. BUT follow these directions: 1. Roughly clean the bucket wall with a wet rag & level the leftover mud in the bucket. 2. Sprinkle some water on the mud, just a small amount. 3. Put a shrink wrap, sticking it directly to the mud surface. 4. Close the bucket by tightly securing the lid on the bucket. You will have no issues when you reopen the bucket after extended storage. Also, it's better to store mud in the basement which is a bit cooler.

[@joshuaroman539]

I completely agree as a finisher I've seen so many different variations of styles and types of mud people will use, but as far as durock or bag mud as they call it. I use it if I'm in a hurry and or especially if I'm doing patches up against plaster, or a large gap, or if I'm busting a joint out, and sometimes even on my bedcoat for different types of beads. it gets a nice hard corner in a high traffic area. But most residential and commercial finishing companies use plus-3, the green, the lime green, box mud, bucket mud, not too often do you see a large job using bag-mud.. you don't get paid to mix mud you get paid to slap that s*** on the walls can you imagine mixing but up on a large commercial job all day long. as far as the bucket mud setting up all you have to do is throw a little water in there taking mixing paddle and that s*** will last for years as long as it doesn't freeze. It was all in a powder form to begin with anyways duh

[@mikep490]

Agreed. However, for the home owner, most jobs can be completed in a week and the small bags of dry aren't available locally. One of the mistakes I've made is it needs to be "worked" a few strokes to remove bubbles instead of apply directly from the bucket. I toss it a few days after opening, which is enough time for most DIY projects. As you say, even if the product is still workable, mold can start to grow in older buckets. I once used bucket product that was a couple months old and small spots of black mold appeared on the wall... had to strip and start again. When buying pre-mix for a project bigger than a patch, I usually purchase it in the cardboard box. The bag allows excess air to be pushed out which keeps it "fresh" for a couple months.

[@hooflungpoo8757]

This guy doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Ive had the same brand of mud for over 2yrs and still using it. When I’m done getting mud from the bucket, I level out the mud in the bucket and clean around the edges of the bucket and lay a piece of plastic directly on the mud and put the lid back on. It’s that’s simple.

[@Ciricky]

Me too.

[@yechaskelbreier1655]

Yup!

[@riding2nowhere]

You got that right. If your mud is drying out in the bucket, it means you're too slow. Been using a box and bucket mud since the 80s,no problem. He sucks with the quick service too.

[@FJBsaidcornpop]

He was probably using the mud directly out of the bucket and leaving the lid off when he went to lunch and scraped the dry mud off of his plastic mud knife on the edge of the bucket when he gets back. 😂 I'm not mixing up mud everyday, not happening, I know some that do, have fun with that.

[@nailbanger2]

Yup, he definitely doesn't clean the sides. I use hot mud when it's called for, but always use bucket mud for the final (3rd) coat.

[@JonnyDIY]

Buckets work fine. If you have a decent sized job get the Box (bag in a box) of premix. And if you need to store for a long time, add a lil bleach/water to top of pail and it won't dry out or mold 👍🏻

[@kichansilva]

As a drywaller/finisher, I like using hot mud to fill in a deep hole or wide gap, and once it sets I go over it with regular mud because hot mud can "burn" your paint and look like there's a different sheen of paint on.

[@TheDiosparati05]

I've been mixing 5 minutes set in a ziploc bag and squeezing out like a cake decorator. When it starts to harden, I just throw the zip lock back away. No mess, no clean-up. Best hack i've ever used for 5 minutes set.

[@kellyinfanger9192]

When finished using the all purpose mud and waiting for your next coat, smooth off the top with your trowel, pour a thin layer of water on top, seal up the lid. When opening again, pour off the thin layer of water. Your mud will last a long time, and you won't have the hassle of mixing up batch after patch of hot mud. The water over-compensates for any evaporation and puts a perfect airtight seal on the bucket until you are ready to use it again (eliminating most of the problems mentioned).

[@JJ-rg7yp]

yeah, but he said hot mud dries so fast, why bother with pre-mix mud and have to wait so long twen coats

[@MAGAMAN]

No need to pour water over it. Just keep the lid lightly on when working and then make sure it is sealed up tight when you are done and it will be fine.

[@MAGAMAN]

@@JJ-rg7yp If you are skim coating an entire room or doing repairs on an entire house, the dry time won't matter because you will have plenty of other things to keep you busy while you wait.

[@mdunbar008]

I bought a screw on lid at LOWES for less than $8, mud stays good for months and my wife doesn't have problems getting the lid off. When we get a new bucket we just move the lid over. No issues so far.

[@MonkeyJedi99]

I have used both, and both have their place. If you are only patching a bit of damaged wall, you CAN get those buckets of pre-mix as small as a quart. If you are doing new construction, the drying time is not that big an issue, as you are doing a lot of wall in one day, and unless you're slathering the stuff on thick, it dries plenty quick, even on humid days. - The time we use the bag mix we were smoothing out horse hair plaster walls after removing old wallpaper. So we used the powder mix as a matter of cost, with the price of a large bucket of pre-mix being more than a few bags of dry. Also, we had buckets to mix in, a large paddle mixer bit, and a drill powerful enough to do the mixing. - And fun tip? Don't forget AFTER you start mixing that you bought bags of 90-minuite AND bags of 25-minute setting plaster. Nothing was less fun than having to sprint-spread a full bag's worth of plaster that starts setting half-way through the batch.

[@waynesligar5948]

Very good to many people have no idea how to do anything i worked construction for 34 years and 18 of that was drywall hanging and finishing

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thank you, Wayne! That's a lot of drywall experience. I bet you've got enough tricks to fill a book

[@waynesligar5948]

@@TheHonestCarpenter yes i tried to show some people how to fix little patches, somehow over the years i messed my back up bad after 3 surgeries and now a pain pump I'm still in extreme pain, i do like watching your videos because it sucks that I'm on disability and can't work anymore. One thing i would like for all construction guys to know is ask for help if something is to heavy instead of just doing it your self then later on be in the shape I'm in please spread that for me

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

@@waynesligar5948 Dang, I'm sorry to hear about that Wayne! I'll confess to doing exactly the same things. In fact, this channel came about because my knee started to get really bad about two years ago. I had to slow down my hardcore construction projects as a result, and it only got worse over the next year. I'm down to very limited part-time now (which is why you see me doing shop projects so much), and it's getting a little better. But there's no way around it: this is physical work, and it takes a toll on everybody. Wishing you all the best though, and I'm definitely going to spread the "work safe" message even more in future videos.

[@trosclair434genus4]

What I’ve noticed is with hot mud, i end up wasting way more than with the premix. The premix that I’ve used I always use multiple times. It’s never hardened on me unless I leave the lid off. If you use ultra lightweight mud in the 5gal premix, it dries around the same time as hot mud if it’s a bigger patch, and I can just save it for later and not throw any rock away because it dries in 30 minutes or less

[@jonathancurrier8147]

Great tips and info on this page. However, the time it's going to cost me to sit and mix my perfect peanut butter compound compared to spending $15.00 on a 4.5 gal bucket of mud...I think I'll splurge and get the 4.5 gal bucket.

[@Mike-su8si]

Might do that for my friend cause I'm not use to the old all purpose stuff in the bucket he has anyways plus it is old puddy and i like using the pink stuff that drys fast and turns white when its dry

[@G.I.JeffsWorkbench]

Thanks for putting this together. Very helpful & informative.

[@homefrontforge]

I've opened boxes from the supplier that had the lovely pink mold growing in them. I've kept partial buckets literally for years and had no problems. Bag mud has its uses, but I generally use it in super damp conditions on big fills like corner bead. If I choose to triple coat, I will top with plus 3 or topping and sand the next day. If you get on hot mud too quick it tends to offgas while curing and give you pin holes. Sanding Easy Sand isn't too bad, but regular "brown bag" Durrobond is a bear. If you use it, underfill the joint or shave the high spots off before they set.

[@Galgamoth]

the pinholes are from patching no pinholes on fresh drywall only when plastering over paint

[@coreyrosenthal4278]

I have had my bucket open for hours and did not harden and I've had a small bucket for Over 2 years and still good as new.

[@austinbrooks965]

I’ve had a bucket for months now. Works fine

[@UAMartin7]

After watching this video I went to check on the 3.5 qt. USG All Purpose pre-mixed joint compound that I used just once over 3 years ago. No mold and still soft. Like new.

[@MAGAMAN]

Yeah, this video is stupid. Amazing the wrong information always seems to get the most views on youtube.

[@kristinekoski7345]

THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOU TIPS AND THE DO’S AND DONT’S AND THE IN’S AND OUT’S...YOUR A GREAT SPEAKER AND YOU DONT DILLY DALLY AROUND BOUT WHAT YOUR TRYING TO SAY.... YOUR STRAIGHT FORWARD AND STRAIGHT TO THE POINT! HOPE YOU KEEP. MAKIN THESE TYPES OF VIDEOS

[@MAGAMAN]

He is also full of bad advice. Don't use hot mud if you are a beginner!

[@tombryan720]

I love the easy sand 45 however My bag soaked up humidity and I gotta be flying before it sets up in the pan. Great tip on sealing it in a bag

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

45 and 20 are all I’ve used for small patches in recent years Tom 👍 But that bag trick has saved me a ton of money!

[@Irwhodunit]

Video, four minutes. Reading comments, 40-minutes. Only on KZbin.

[@Capable-opinions]

Small job, DIY, buy pre mix. Expecting a regular Joe homeowner to use any dry mix is a little ridiculous. I buy the Green top and if you keep the sides clean and lid tight, it will last a good while.

[@rolfbjorn9937]

Hahahahaha Thanks for insulting all the handy people who are not pros. Pre mix sucks. Takes forever to dry, and is fragile, will cause even MORE pain to inexperienced people because of that. Will take 3 fucking days just to patch anything significant. I sure want to get done within one day. I'll use setting mud 9/10 as a self taught tenant. Just practice in places that dont matter visually like closets or on scrap drywall then graduate to living spaces. Now Mr Pro, go mix some 2-4 component products like epoxy and fillers and tell me I can't mix miscible powder with water because I'm not a drywall pro...

[@chuckredd9131]

Years ago I had a crew in to texture a room. They mixed the drywall powder with the same color paint (latex, water base) along with a small amount of water. No primer and one roll on coat. Never had any problems years later.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

The faster the mix, the harder it seems to sand. The last coat I use the slowest, usually 90 minute mud.

[@ron75569]

has nothing to do with it ,all quick set sands harder, if you put some dawn dish soap in with it, it will sand as easy as regular mud

[@donovanbeavers3274]

I use hot mud all the time. Full 5G buckets of 20 min. Get it up, rinse your tools, relax for a few, then lay it down as it kicks off. Always finish with green dot topping, it works better as a final coating for me.

[@A.S.P.R.]

Are you doing drywall install?

[@Sheila-cm4jy]

I opened a medium-sized green bucket of All Purpose about a year ago and have been in and out of it many times to make repairs before painting and it held up well - it didn't dry out or grow mold but it sounds like I just got lucky. You have to be careful with the premixed that you don't get the dry crusties from the sides of the bucket in the compound you dip out, or else you'll have drag marks all over the place. I'm psyched to try the quickset sometime!

[@jschlaud6]

As a professional trademan working in construction and renovations i personally will use hot mud for coats one and two, and finish with a premixed bucket of dust control compound. Much easier to get the final result your looking for. Also much easier sanding when it comes to that stage. Knife sanding in between coats.

[@BobsHomeServicesLLC]

I am a home-improvement contractor and I love the all purpose mud in the green top container. The only thing you need to be concerned about is when you’re done using it you Scrape the mud off the side of the bucket so that it does not harden on the walls and then pour water into the bucket just till it covers the mud and it’ll last forever. I’ve never had any mud dry out nor have I had any mold grow. The fast setting compounds, while very useful to contractors and people experienced with drywall repair, hot mud is a wonderful alternative but usually the DIY or has trouble using these these and they don’t sound very well and often when a DIY or tries sanding these or applying them they put it on too thick and end up with more of a mess. I would recommend using all purpose but if you have zero experience with Drywall or very low experience. And I certainly wouldn’t be worried about mold growing I’ve never seen that happen in my lifetime.

[@jpaugh64]

I bet mold growth inside the bucket depends on your geographical location, and how likely it is for mold to grow _outside_ of the bucket in your area.

[@hondaguy9153]

I think having a thin layer of water on top helps keep that mold from growing. I've had stuff where it grew mold but I'll try a bit of water on top next time I store a bucket of mud.

[@pcno2832]

I don't see one as superior to the other. Hot mud is a PIA to mix, less flexible when it dries and a little harder to sand, but not being water soluble when cured, it's much better for wet areas and takes less time to be ready for the next coat. Ready-mix is much more convenient, more flexible when dry (thus better for treating recurring cracks), easier to apply in the thinnest possible coats and a joy to sand. I wouldn't want to mix up a batch of hot mud just to fill one of those little gouges you notice while cleaning, but I wouldn't want to wait a day for a deep gap of ready-mix to dry.

[@trosclair434genus4]

You also throw away a lot of hot mud. I’ve never wasted any premix. And I’ve always been able to throw the excess back in the buck, lid the bucket, and take to the next job.

[@scottwebber652]

Love the quick set. Can do the whole room in a day Only sand once. Just knock the snot off in between coats

[@chriskeel3096]

if you finish right, theres no "snot" to knock off

[@MegaLegoFace]

YES! If you're sanding in between coats, you're just wasting time and product.

[@MAGAMAN]

How can you do a whole room in a day when that stuff dries out in minutes? You must spend most of your time mixing new mud.

[@scottwebber652]

@@MAGAMAN I soon realized to only mix up the amount I could apply within the time limit. And believe it or not I am press the shit out of myself as rookie. 90 minutes at a time. After the tape is on it really goes quick

[@garrettdavis2354]

ive had a bucket of mud for 2 years that i just used today for some of my home repairs..... and it worked pretty well.🤷‍♀

[@peterbergeris6510]

I can use wtr with general purpose mud and it applies smooth and I have never had mold in bucket. Keep lid tight. Some ppl use quick setting cause they need to apply 2to 3 coats in one day. Homeowners can wait.

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

I'd say that's mostly true, Peter. But it seems that people who watch my channel are DIYers or homeowners who want to know how the pros do it. So, I show them stuff like this. Plus, as good a shelf life as bucket mud might have (if carefully stored and handled), it just can't compare to the longevity of hot mud in a plastic bag. Mine STILL hasn't gone bad, and I use it maybe a couple times a year now. You can stretch out one $12 bag almost indefinitely. Hard to beat that.

[@A.S.P.R.]

Homeowners can wait. As the owner of a very profitable plaster repair company though....I can't. The less time on site, the more money in my pocket and the more customers I can serve. The more money in my pocket, the less reason I need to go into a different career.

[@gsxrsquid]

Tried hot mud for the first time. Went on nicely and covered screwheads fine. For some reason the premix in the box stores always "humped" when skimming over screwheads. No sanding issues with it either.

[@Corman7088]

The five of lightweight Sheetrock (Blue) I had lasted well over 3yrs covering it w/slightly moist plastic bag from grocery store (print side up) I did have minor issue w/mold once about top 1/2" having sat untouched for a good 6mo. period there. After I skimmed off about 1 1/2" to be safe&fine until the last.

[@bobbybass8557]

40 years in the busines and this guy dont have a clue. Hot mud has its place. Dont listen to this guy

[@rynhanson]

Came here to say the same thing...

[@rynhanson]

@Xavier Holland no i came to this video bc i do this for a living and after watching saw they are saying shit that isnt true. I was trying to save a diy'er some issues. But dont listen. I dont give a fuck if you screw it up bc you will probably end up paying a patch guy like me to go fix your screw up for twice the price bc we have to redo your crap

[@rynhanson]

@Xavier Holland its guys like you that keep me busy lol. Do you know the glue levels of each type of mud? Do you know the sanding capabilities of each mud, or the strength level? I use both durabond and mud everyday. But i know each had its own place and purpose and one cant always do what the other does.

[@rynhanson]

@Xavier Holland mkay moron. I using simple terms for the adverage person. And no i dont own the multi million dollar drywall business i work for. But nice try. But i have been doing this for 20 years and make a good living with no call backs. I dont care what you think. Take the videos advice. And a real drywall finisher will laugh at your work

[@elmerdane]

Im a painter and even i know better

[@mrzacat3tasm3xxxico20]

Great advice. Just a lil tip. Pro ,mentor of mine worked on my house restoration, he would shave off drywall like cheese grating & add to hot mud / sometimes depending on room would use buckets & it would tremendously speed up drying time on wall/ ceiling , still kept same working time 45 , 90 etc depending on room size

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

I didn't know that Mr. Z! I'm going to try it. Just grate the gypsum board straight into your compound?

[@mrzacat3tasm3xxxico20]

@@TheHonestCarpenter yes , the smaller the batch the less you put in , vice versa. Let me & us viewers know how well it worked out for you

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

@@mrzacat3tasm3xxxico20 Will do!

[@A.S.P.R.]

Philip with the American School of Plaster Restoration here. Sounds like a lot of work! Have you ever tried using “dirty water” to speed up the setting time?

[@MAGAMAN]

No, it's terrible advice.

[@gilboston20033]

Good tips, for spot patching, add a little chalk to the mud to tint it. It will be easier to find where has been patched. For ready-mix mud, at the end of the day make sure to level your mud in a bucket, add a little bit of water and cover with a thin film of plastic. Over 30 years working as a house painter.

[@edwardbain5391]

I do not do alot of mud work but enough for me.I really respect guys who find easy ways to achieve great results.I just have not had any success with "hot mud" just does not finish well for me.I have stuck with Blue lid top coat and just am resigned to let it dry properly between coats.Wish I had more expertise because I hate sanding!!!!

[@georgegravette1132]

So . . .he's essentially saying that when you open the bucket, the bucket contents start to dry up, but the stuff you put on the wall is slow to set up and slow to dry. Makes perfect sense.

[@blazeofficial1591]

Lol he’s talking crap.

[@jefferydean3082]

No shit....

[@kulturfreund6631]

Quick and slow is relative

[@davidvickers8425]

It expires if you leave the bucket open while you mud. Open the lid get some out then shut the lid. My bucket has lasted since i opened it march 2020 i have a 3rd left i just checked it 5 minutes ago and its the same as the day i opened it, i didnt add water, just didnt leave it open for more than a few seconds and put some in a gallon icecream container to use. scrape It off the sides to the bottom as the sides do cure but not the bulk.

[@MAGAMAN]

@@davidvickers8425 A fool and their compound are soon parted. The guy who made the video is a fool.

[@dr.kennymakit1167]

I’ve never had a problem with this product.

[@CyprionMPuli]

I have used the premixed mud and it works just well. I close the lid and it keeps it soft 👍🏾

[@melvinlara-falcone2362]

As a drywall installer for 17 years I never had a problem with ready to use drywall mud compound in buckets never had mold or never had a dry up on me this video is very important to those that our first time drywaller‘s and do it yourself or‘s one thing I would like to point out all I always used the entire bucket so if you go to the store to buy the stuff that’s ready to use make sure you buy the right size bucket and use it all

[@BulletproofPastor]

Hot mud has its place but there's a lot of dis-information presented here. I've never had a bucket of mud get mold or dry out. 90 minute hot mud is a great time saver for first or second coat but I always use pre mixed for the top coat. I get a smoother finish and it dries plenty fast enough.

[@grabasandwich]

I absolutely *hate* drywall. So frustrating to work with and it breaks so easily. If you're a drywaller, you have my respect! I couldn't do it every day.

[@MAGAMAN]

Drywall is extremely easy to work with. Tile flooring is what really sucks. I now know where the saying "I would rather die on my feet than live on my knees" really came from.

[@toptendawgbaybeeeeeee]

Awesome sauce this man answered my question within first 30 secs heck i then stuck around for the whole video. Much respect for being to the point no bs.

[@MAGAMAN]

To bad it was all bad advice.

[@toptendawgbaybeeeeeee]

@@MAGAMAN personally id still use premade drywall mix but prefer to mix my own when i can. I dont know what was bad advice. Would you clarify for me how this what you said is so please?

[@illdecidemylifesdirectionl9992]

I always use Quickset 45 for my first and second coats but it’s always a 50-50 mix with regular all pork joint compound makes it easier to sand

[@garycasper2929]

Thank you for this up-load Sir. & if you can get past some of the ego in the comment section, there’s some good tips and info to gain. 👍

[@davesilvia9711]

lol, dura bond comes in diffrent drying times, hard as a brick when it dries, should only be used for first coat. blue top is good for finishing, mix a drop of dawn in it and it will go on smooth as glass.

[@danwheeler5130]

good tip never heard that thanks

[@buk6708]

Do not do that, it will fish scale the drywall.

[@davesilvia9711]

@@buk6708 just a drop

[@buk6708]

@@davesilvia9711 I trust you Sir, I heard about it, fishscaling, have not seen it happen myself. I don’t wanna disrespect you, just wanted a warning. I am not a drywaller, but I hire them and heard from several guys about Dawn fishscalings on walls. To each his own buddy lol. I would let you do it however you do it as long as that wall looks good.

[@franciscomaldonado7162]

Very helpful before I can start any mud project. Thanx my fellow craft/tradesmen. 👍

[@MAGAMAN]

This video is full of wrong information.

[@mcbull5154]

I'm using the same all-purpose mud right now. I initially opened it about a month ago and it's still good. It hasn't dried at all.

[@todaysfreedoms7069]

If your going that slow, mold is probably growing on you back side!

[@La_abbess]

🤣

[@cavsomecadence6117]

Sloth painters.

[@christianhaynes1954]

Exactly , I can sling a 5 gal bucket empty in short order

[@TheLandlordPicker]

Ha....👍

[@bricemantel3191]

Shit I never use anything except 5, 20, and 45 minute mud. Three coats in half a day. Never went back to bucket mud....too slow.

[@stevepseudonym445]

Thank you to the commenters who saved me from wasting 4 minutes by watching this.

[@willsoonmarc8711]

The pre mix sands easier but dries longer.Plus if working on ceiling the dust control pre mix is good it drops mostly straight down.Its good for when you don't want dust going everywhere when sanding.The stuff in the bag is for small projects not whole houses.I did a patch last week that cannot be done with pre mixed in a day.But I did it with the bagged stuff.Also there is a brown bag of that powdered stuff that is stronger its good for places where you have had repeated cracks.Depends on what you are doing what you need to use.I sometimes use both on the same patch the powdered first and then pre mix so I can sand it easy.Find what works for you and your skill level.Or else you will waste a lot of the powdered stuff.

[@terrythomas790]

The good about the hot mix is that it can fill larger holes, or joints and dries quick. The bucket stuff, not so much. SO, like a few mention use the hot stuff first, and finish with the bucket mix

[@ThatKiltedGuyDIY]

Novices- be VERY careful using hot mud. It could make your life miserable. I teach how to use it right but if you can only build it up and sand it down, you’ll regret using it. All purpose is much more forgiving and a fine product.

[@randybobandy9828]

All purpose and especially all purpose lite sand well. I only use hot mud for gaps and patches or if I'm in a rush.

[@Joetime90]

I wish there was a powder form of all purpose here in the States. Vancouver Carpenter in Canada has so many varieties to choose from. All I have are heavy and light pre mixed, or hot mud. Gotta make use of what you got. But hot mud is ok if you can work with it in the time. Hot mud is temperamental... I mixed a bucket of 90 minute hot mud and it dried up. Unless you're a pro (or doing patches), I'd steer away from the stuff. How you mix it depends affects working time. If you're using a pan and knife, it's best to mix the heavy or light pre mix in your pan as you go. In a perfect world, doing everything in hot mud would be beautiful.

[@petergriffin1546]

What do you recommend on new plaster tool marks and pin holes repairs? UniKal says hot mud and not premixed. or bonding agent and plaster which seems difficulty for small pin holes...

[@randybobandy9828]

@@Joetime90 I live Vancouver carpenter. Good channel.

[@lopezjosealejandro]

I have never used hot mud before, but it looks good when you are in hurry. I think I would try it to satisfy my curiosity.

[@Yellow.Dog.]

Water temp effects dry time too. Cold=slower Hot=faster

[@TheHonestCarpenter]

Thanks yellowdog! Another thing I've never taken note of. Helpful to know

[@A.S.P.R.]

Philip with the American School of Plaster Restoration here. You’re absolutely right about that one!