Man, you nailed it with the pole sander. I remember thinking I could save time just using a block, but after an hour my shoulders were toast and I still had patches to go. The pole makes it way easier, though I still keep a block handy for corners and touchups. And those dang imperfections... every time I think I’ve got it perfect, the sunlight finds something I missed. At some point you just have to accept “good enough” or you’ll drive yourself nuts chasing every tiny shadow.
Honestly, I get the temptation to just call it “good enough,” but I’ve found that a cheap work light or even a clamp lamp can help spot those sneaky imperfections before the sun does. It’s not fancy, but it saves me from having to redo stuff later. I still use the block for tight spots too, but sometimes I just take a break and come back with fresh eyes—makes a difference. Not saying it has to be perfect, but a little extra effort up front can save some regret down the line.
Title: Getting smooth drywall joints without losing your mind
Yeah, that extra lighting really does make a difference. I’ve lost count of how many times I thought a wall was ready, then the next morning sunlight hit and suddenly every little ridge and shadow pops out. Sometimes I’ll even run my hand over the joint with my eyes closed—feels weird, but you can catch stuff you’d miss visually.
Taking a break is underrated too. I’ve rushed through sanding late at night and regretted it every time. One thing I’ll add: I started using a wider knife for the final coat, like 12" or even 14". It’s a bit awkward at first, but it feathers out the mud way better and saves a lot of touch-up later. Not perfect, but close enough that nobody’s staring at the seams.
Honestly, I don’t think anyone’s ever gotten a joint 100% flawless, but a little patience and a decent light go a long way.
Sometimes I’ll even run my hand over the joint with my eyes closed—feels weird, but you can catch stuff you’d miss visually.
That’s actually a solid trick. I’ve done the same, and it’s wild how much your fingers pick up that your eyes just gloss over. I’m with you on the wider knife too—makes a huge difference, even if it feels like you’re wielding a canoe paddle at first. Curious if anyone’s tried those sanding sponges versus pole sanders? I swear by the sponge for touch-ups, but maybe I’m missing out on something better.
I get the love for sanding sponges, but honestly, I find pole sanders way more efficient for bigger areas. Sponges are fine for corners or quick fixes, but if you want a really flat finish across a whole wall, nothing beats a pole sander. Just gotta watch for swirl marks if you’re not careful.
