Texture Mud Vs. Joint Compound (In-Depth Comparison)

By - Ron Singh

Updated -

How often have you wondered if texture mud and joint compound are the same? If you’re unfamiliar with either, you’re probably thinking, “what on earth are these things?”

You’re not alone; many contractors and DIYers don’t know what these terms mean. 

It’s essential to understand their differences and similarities so that you can choose which one works best for your project.

When comparing texture mud joint with mixed joint compound, you use both for drywall finishing; they differ based on their texture, application, and durability. Joint compounds are usually thicker than texture mud, so they last longer on your walls than texture mud. When choosing drywall mud, choose one that suits your needs.

Is Texture Mud the Same As Joint Compound?

Texture Mud Vs. Joint Compound

No, a texture mud joint and drywall joint compound is different. Texture mud is a thinner version of the joint compound used for texturing walls and ceilings.

On the other hand, the joint compound is thicker and is used to fill in cracks and holes in drywall. 

While texture mud and joint compound are not precisely interchangeable, you use them for similar purposes.

For example, you can use either one to repair small holes in drywall before painting over them. Texture mud is more expensive than regular drywall joint compounds, however. 

Texture mud is a spackle used to add texture to walls and ceilings, while regular drywall joint compound, on the other hand, is a type of drywall compound used to fill in gaps between pieces of drywall.

You apply texture mud joint with a trowel, and most texture mud applications require at least two coats. 

To fill in any gaps, you can use a roller to apply regular joint compound over areas that need extra coverage.

If your walls need texturing rather than filling, you can apply a thin layer of texture mud or spackle directly onto them and then sand it down smooth once it dries.

If you’re repairing a small hole in the drywall using a textured mud joint, it will take much longer to apply than a regular drywall joint compound. 

However, the joint compound takes several hours to dry and cure before you can sand it down.

Although they are different, they have similarities, such as being available in dry form or pre-mixed material.

They are used to hide flaws in drywall. That they have some similarities doesn’t mean they are the same, you use them for different applications. 

Using texture mud joint for your drywall requires understanding how to apply it because its application procedure is not as straightforward as a regular drywall joint compound.

Unlike the joint compound you can do, using texture mud joints isn’t that simple.

Joint Compound Vs. Texture Mud – Which One Is Best?

If you’re considering adding texture to your walls, you may wonder what product to use – joint compound or texture mud? Both have pros and cons, so it’s essential to understand the difference before deciding which is best for you.

The application area and your personal preference will determine which is the best.

Texture mud is a mixture that allows you to add texture to your walls without adding much bulk as joint compounds can.

Texture mud, also known as taping mud or plastering paste, is a mixture of dry ingredients like lime and pigment.

To use texture mud, mix it with water until you get a consistency like thick pancake batter. Then, use a putty knife to smooth it onto your walls.

When applying a mud-joint compound, either compound can be used, depending on the effect you’re trying to achieve.

For example, texture mud is lighter and easier to work with than joint compound, and it can give your wall or ceiling an antiqued look similar to texture mud.

The joint compound has more texture than texture mud joint and is thicker than texture mud, so it’s great if you need to fill in deep cracks or nail holes left after you install your wallboard.

Choose a regular drywall joint compound as a drywall compound that is both simple to use and has a low shrinkage rate.

It can impact your finances because texture mud joints have a thinner consistency and a higher shrinkage rate.

To achieve the desired outcomes, you must pay attention while applying them.

Thickness and Durability Comparison Between Joint Compound Vs. Texture Mud

Regarding thickness, texture mud and joint compound are different, with one being thinner than the other; in terms of durability, one lasts longer.

The table below will compare the durability and thickness of texture mud joint and drywall joint compound. 

#1. Thickness

Joint CompoundTexture Mud
A joint compound is a thick mixture that fills in cracks and holes in walls, and you use it as a base for paint or wallpaper. Texture mud is a thinner mixture used to create texture on walls. You can also use it to fill in small cracks and holes.

When choosing drywall mud, consider the thickness as it will affect the finishing and joint strength and cause breaking if not done correctly. Your drywall thickness is vital for crack-resistant drywall mud

Thin drywall mud is difficult to handle, and most individuals utilize texture mud for specific installation components as it lets you choose a more precise solution that lasts longer.

#2. Durability

Joint CompoundTexture Mud
A joint compound is more durable than texture mud because it is thicker than the texture mud joint, so it lasts longer.Texture mud doesn’t last as long as regular drywall joint compounds because it is thinner than it. It also lasts, but not as long as its counterpart. 

Durable mud prevents regular maintenance and makes surfaces look maintained. Durable drywall is thicker and lasts longer.

The joint compound is thicker than texture mud; therefore, it lasts longer and holds better. Texture mud is a quick fix.

Texture Mud Vs. Joint Compound: The Differences

Several factors differentiate textured mud from joint compounds. I’ll be discussing some of their differences below.

#1. Thickness

One difference between the two compounds is their thickness. Joint compounds are thicker than texture mud joints.

This thickness affects how well it works and how long it lasts on surfaces. Drywall mud’s consistency is essential because it affects how well the joints hold and how it looks at the end.

Thinner drywall mud is also harder to work with and more likely to crack, so you will have to fix it after a while.

However, the thicker joint compound makes it easier to work with, less likely to crack, and lasts longer.

#2. Durability

When deciding between joint compound and texture mud joint, it’s essential to consider how long each one will last.

To choose a suitable drywall mud, you will need a long-lasting one. It is a must, as durable mud will keep you from regular upkeep and make your surfaces look well maintained. 

Drywall that will last should be thicker, so it can hold the surface for a long time. Joint compounds are thicker and more durable than texture mud joints because of how well they stick compared to texture mud.

#3. Finishing

Since texture mud joint and mixed joint compound have different textures, the time it takes for them to dry differs.

Texture mud doesn’t require much prep to look good, unlike the joint compound, where you must prime surfaces to improve its finished look.

You must sand down the joint compound properly to look good, which takes time and focus. Texture mud has finishing challenges but requires less prep work than joint compound.

As a homeowner, you have to consider those details because if you don’t, the drywall and joints won’t last as long.

#4. Shrinkage

Drywall mud shrinks when it dries. That can be problematic since you may assume a particular quantity is adequate, and it turns out not to be. Texture mud joint requires reapplications.

Drywall joint compound doesn’t shrink as quickly and doesn’t require reapplication. On the other hand, the texture of mud shrinks quickly, making sealing difficult.

To get your desired results with texture mud, you must reapply, which is time-consuming.

#5. Use-Friendly

You will have to learn how to use texture mud well because it is not as easy as applying joint compounds.

After the texture mud dries, you may have to buy a new one because you messed up the first one.

A joint compound is easy to use and doesn’t need a professional to get the best look when finished; you could do it yourself and save some money.

Conclusion

In summary, texture mud and the mixed joint compound are used for drywall finishing but differ from each other.

A notable difference between the two compounds is that the joint compound is thicker and more durable than the texture due to its thickness.

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