Can we talk about the idea that you need to pre-fill every screw dimple?

I read a study from a trade school in Oregon that found filling screw heads after the first coat can actually save time and reduce sanding. They tested it on a 12x12 foot ceiling and the finish was just as smooth. Has anyone tried this method on a real job?

3 comments

3 Comments

sean78227d ago

That study sounds like a trap set by someone who has never had to sand a ceiling for six hours straight. The whole point of filling screw dimples first is so you don't have to chase shadows after the paint goes on. Sure, maybe it worked in a lab with perfect light, but on a real job with texture and angled sunlight, you'll see every single one. Trying to save five minutes in the morning just means losing half a day later fixing your mistakes.

uma_martinez27d ago

Wait, they tested this in a lab with perfect light? (That explains everything.)

jesse_williams6226d ago

I mean, maybe it's just me but I've seen guys skip the pre-fill before. It's not like the world ends. On a flat ceiling with a knockdown texture, you honestly can't even tell. The whole chasing shadows thing feels a bit overblown unless you're doing a level 5 finish in some fancy house with a giant skylight.