How do you use a banjo drywall tool?

Drywall, also known as plasterboard or wallboard, is a panel made of gypsum plaster pressed between two thick sheets of paper. It is commonly used as an interior finish for walls and ceilings in many homes and commercial buildings. Installing drywall can be a tedious and time-consuming task, especially when working on large projects. This is where a banjo drywall tool comes in handy. A banjo is an essential tool that makes applying drywall joint compound quick and easy. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to properly use a banjo drywall tool to help streamline drywall finishing work.

What is a Banjo Drywall Tool?

A banjo drywall tool, also referred to as a banjo plasterer or a drywall taping tool, is a mechanical device used to apply drywall joint compound. It consists of a large round holding pan and a tapered applicator head. The holding pan stores the joint compound while the applicator head smoothly applies it directly onto the drywall seams and corners. There are two main types of banjo tools – the bazooka banjo and the flat box banjo.

Bazooka Banjo

The bazooka banjo features a tube-like design with a handle and a material release lever. It works similarly to a caulking gun and is ideal for applying compound to flat joints and corner bead. To use it, drywall compound is first loaded into the holding pan chamber. The release lever is then pumped to push the material out smoothly onto the drywall as the tool is slid along.

Flat Box Banjo

The flat box banjo has a flat applicator head rather than a tapered nozzle. It provides maximum coverage and is best suited for skim coating large drywall surfaces. The holding pan is filled with compound and a crank is turned to push the material out evenly onto the wall. The flat head ensures an even coat across the entire surface.

Benefits of Using a Banjo Tool

There are several key advantages to using a banjo tool for drywall work:

• Saves time – A banjo allows compound application in a single coat and speeds up the process significantly.
• Creates seamless finishes – The smooth application from a banjo minimizes imperfections and tackle coats.
• Eliminates mess – Banjos prevent compound dripping and splattering which creates less cleanup.
• Reduces fatigue – Pushing a loaded banjo is much easier than repeated scooping and troweling by hand.
• Applies consistent pressure – The spring-loaded head applies uniform pressure for an even finish.
• Minimizes waste – The controlled release prevents overloading compound and conserve materials.

Types of Joint Compounds for Banjo Tools

Choosing the right type of drywall joint compound is key to achieving optimal results with a banjo tool. The three main types of compounds are:

All-Purpose

All-purpose joint compound is a pre-mixed formulation suitable for all applications. It can be used for embedding paper tape and finish coats. All-purpose compound has good adhesion and filling capacities. However, it requires extended drying times.

Lightweight

As the name suggests, lightweight compound contains fillers that reduce its density. It is easy to handle and sand. Lightweight compound dries faster but lacks strength for embedding tapes. It is best used solely for finish coats and touch-ups.

Setting-Type

Setting-type compounds contain plaster of paris that enables the material to harden through a chemical reaction. Setting-types offer fastest drying and can be used to pre-fill gaps and cavities. However, the rapid hardening also limits workability.

Preparing the Banjo for Use

Follow these key steps to get your banjo tool ready for use:

1. Select the right applicator head – Flat boxes for skim coats, tapered nozzles for corner beads.
2. Attach the applicator securely to the holding pan.
3. Fill the holding pan with drywall compound. For bazooka style banjos, fill to about 2 inches below the rim.
4. Plug any openings or cracks with putty to prevent leakage.
5. Pump the release lever to prime the applicator and fill with compound.
6. Adjust material flow by turning the regulator screw if needed.

Loading the Banjo

Filling the banjo properly and keeping it loaded is crucial for continuous application on the job. Follow these tips when loading compound into the banjo:

• For best results, fill half the pan and keep it topped off as you work.
• Do not overfill the pan which can cause difficulty in pumping and messy leaks.
• Refill from the back opening of the pan, not through the applicator head.
• Remove any dried compound clogs from previous use before refilling.
• When left unattended, cover the holding pan to prevent drying.
• For setting compounds, only mix enough that can be used within the setting time.

Applying Compound with a Bazooka Banjo

Once loaded, a bazooka banjo allows smooth compound application in a few simple steps:

1. Position the bazooka nozzle directly over the seam or corner at a 45 degree angle.
2. Begin pumping the lever gently to start material flow close to the surface.
3. Slide the nozzle slowly along the joint while maintaining consistent pressure.
4. For corners, keep the nozzle right on the nose for symmetrical application.
5. Apply 8 to 12 inch strokes moving in reverse to coat the entire seam.
6. Lift the nozzle at the end of passes to prevent bulges of excess compound.

Tips for Using a Bazooka Banjo

• Keep pumping fluidly and avoid rapid “jack-hammering” motion.
• Maintain consistent speed – too fast results in thin coats while too slow causes build up.
• Stop pumping just before lifting off at the end of a run to prevent dripping.
• Use free hand to guide nozzle and ensure straight application.
• Do not overload compound to prevent clogging the nozzle.

Applying Compound with a Flat Box Banjo

For skim coating large drywall surfaces, a flat box banjo is the ideal tool. Follow these guidelines when using a flat box banjo:

1. Use proper Mud Runner compound for the flat box pan.
2. Hold the flat box perpendicular to the wall, 1/8 to 1/4 inches away from the surface.
3. Apply light, even pressure while gliding the box horizontally or vertically.
4. Overlap strokes slightly to ensure uniform coverage.
5. Keep edges flush to prevent ridges by feathering the sides.
6. Make sure the pan feeds sufficiently by observing the discharged compound.
7. Reload compound in pan frequently to maintain wet edge for best results.

Tips for Using a Flat Box Banjo

• Begin coats in corners and edges where it’s harder to reach with the broad flat box.
• Load pan little at a time to prevent clumping of stiffening compound.
• Clean out any lumps in pan to prevent streaking the finish coat.
• Keep basecoat thin, and build thickness with subsequent coats.
• Allow proper drying time between coats.

Achieving a Smooth Finish

The key to achieving truly smooth and seamless drywall finishes with a banjo tool lies in proper techniques and application. Here are some tips:

• Always apply thin coats and allow complete drying between coats.
• Lightly sand each coat before applying the next to remove imperfections.
• Use broad sweeping strokes and avoid leaving ridges at ends.
• When coating corners, extend compound slightly beyond corner edges.
• Load adequate compound to prevent voids or missed spots.
• Finish skim coat stroke in same direction – horizontal or vertical.
• Gradually increase compound thickness on final coats.
• Do full wall sections to prevent lap marks at joints between batches.
• Spot fill any final defects and recoat only affected areas.

Cleaning and Maintaining the Banjo

Proper cleaning and maintenance will keep a banjo in good working condition for many years. Follow these important practices:

• Never leave wet compound in the pan after finishing a job.
• Thoroughly clean all compound residue after every use.
• To clean, fill pan with warm water and pump out until water runs clear.
• Spray inside holding tank with water and wipe clean.
• Ensure applicator head parts are free of dried compound.
• Check for any leaks and repair with sealant or tape.
• Lubricate pump and lever mechanisms if difficult to operate.
• Store banjo upright and away from extreme temperatures or moisture.

Troubleshooting Common Banjo Problems

Problem	Possible Causes	Solutions
Material leaking	Loose applicator head fit Cracked pan Worn or damaged seals	Tighten applicator mount Patch cracks with sealant Replace damaged gaskets and seals
Uneven material flow	Clogged openings Dry or thick compound Obstructed applicator head	Clear blockages and clean pan Add water or fresh compound Check and clear nozzle
Difficulty pumping	Insufficient lubrication Stiff or dry compound Pump needs adjustment	Lubricate lever and pump parts Mix in fresh compound Adjust pump parts as needed

Safety Tips

While banjo tools boost drywall productivity, safe practices should always be followed:

• Wear protective gear – eye protection, mask, gloves, long sleeves.
• Work in rooms with adequate ventilation to minimize dust.
• Keep banjo properly maintained with secure hose clamps.
• Ensure adequate lighting in the work area.
• Follow safe lifting methods for heavy buckets of compound.
• Store banjos safely to prevent falling or tipping accidents.
• Clean work site after finishing to prevent slips on wet compound.

Conclusion

Banjo drywall tools provide an efficient means for delivering smooth, consistent coats of joint compound onto drywall. Their specialized design makes the taping and finishing process much faster compared to hand application. Bazooka and flat box style banjos each offer advantages depending on the specific task. With practice and proper technique, banjos create a seamless surface ready for decoration in minimal time. Maintaining and cleaning the tools well will ensure they last through many drywall projects. Following safe work practices also minimizes potential hazards. For professional drywallers or avid DIYers, a quality banjo tool is an indispensable item that makes attaining flawless results simple and straightforward.