Vancouver and the Fraser Valley - Drywall Taping and Painting

Now Serving all of Vancouver and the Fraser Valley

2016-10-24T18:37:00.001-04:00

The move to Abbotsford is complete. I've been getting alot of interest for my services from the Fraser Valley so I decided to move out here. I still be be doing projects in Vancouver but hope to land local contracts closer to home. I haven't acquired all my equipment yet but can still pull off simple projects with what I have on hand so feel free to send me an email ( canadian_web@hotmail.com ) with your construction projects parameters and I'll pop in have a look, give you a free quote we'll go from there. Thanks.

Taping Corners Master Drywall Taper

2013-11-03T16:05:00.000-05:00

Here's a good video of the care needed to tape and sand corners. This drywall taping video is located in a back room office vestibule area but gets the exact same attention as any area of the project.

Taping Tips Satirical Commercial

2013-10-06T06:47:00.000-04:00

Here's a funny drywall taping video that Tom put together for me.

Now ...

you have to understand that we are artists and aren't exactly "normal" so bear that in mind if you are interested in watching this drywalling video. I'll show you how to empty a box of mud into a pail. Then I'll demonstrate both ambidexterity and the flexibility required of a drywall taper to tape window wells properly and efficiently.

Ok ...

Here Drywall Taping Tips 1.0

Installing Roll On Bead Drywall Compound

2013-09-02T19:46:00.000-04:00

I bumped into a guy at a job site the other day. He said he was a drywall taper. I was surprised when he told me that he didn't own a trowel. Needless to say, I was shocked beyond belief when he explained his process of caulking the corners and then smoothing out the caulking with a putty knife and calling that a finished corner. Unbelievable! Well, this guy wouldn't stand a chance at being a real drywall taper. Sure he finishes projects ten times faster than me but hey my inside corners are immaculate, they last forever and are super sharp.

Anyway, I figured I may as well explain the process of installing and finishing roll-on bead. I like to use roll-on bead for any 45 degree angle (or likewise odd angles and for bulkhead work). The reason for bulkhead use is to make perfectly square and level outside corners. Roll-on beads also use less drywall compound than the traditional metal beading. I know some drywall tapers that won't touch the job unless all the bead are pre-installed. So for them, here Roll-On Beading 101.

The bead needs to be cut exactly to size with tin snips.

Drywall compound is liberally applied to the outside corners and squared off with a 6" knife.

The roll-on bead is positioned, in this case, level to the ceiling.

I like to first squeeze out the mud working from the metal strips out using my fingers.

It's a little messy sometimes but effective and quick.

The remainder mud is squeezed out and the whole assembly is feathered.

Now the bead is set to dry for two days and then a second coat and final skim coat is applied. A light sanding afterwards finishes the task.

Interesting Drywalling Challenges

2013-08-09T06:17:00.000-04:00

I took a few pictures of an interesting drywalling challenge. There were tons of challenging bulkheads in this renovation project.

Plenty of bulkeheads running into each other.

Here's an angled bulkhead challenge.

There were some really tough drywalling challenges.

Window wells were hard to work with but fun.

This basement descent created a drywall illusion.

Level 4 Drywall Taping

2013-01-13T06:14:00.000-05:00

Drywall taping has standards. They are rated in Ontario from 1 to 5. Level 1 is basic fire coding where tape installed over drywall joints and a first coat of compound is applied. Level 1 requires no sanding to complete.

The finishing qualities are increased through Level 2 - 3 by applying additional layers of drywall compound. Level 2 finish and Level 3 finish each get a sanding at the end. Both these mediocrities are considered complete.

Level 4 is a skim coat of level 3. This is the standard associated with new homes, commercial, renovation ...

very interesting 45 angles into ceiling level 4 finish

This is level 4 drywall taping. This photo is taken after level 4 sanding and before applying primer.

an example of challenging level 4 drywall taping

Master Tapers (level 4 and level 5) are Master Plasterers

Level 5 tapers are the equivalent of master plasterers as the entire surface requires compound application.

Level 5 is the highest quality and that is accomplished when the entire surface area is skimmed coated after level sanded finish. Level 5 needs a final sanding using very fine grit sandpaper. Drywallers who want work at this level will work in such environmnents as hospitals, expensive home construction/renovations and corporate office.

Finishing an Intricate Closet Area

2013-01-10T06:16:00.000-05:00

first coat- 45 degree angles and bulkheads make for a challenging closet area

Thought I'd show a step by step sequence of how a closet is finished. This closet is located in a basement bedroom. I take exactly the same steps to finish it as I do every other area of the project. First the corners and joints get taped. Then corner beads are installed. This scenario has bulkheads so those extruding corners are finished with roll-on metal strips bead.

The closet area is taped and is ready for second coats

2013 Newmarket Dream Team

2013-01-05T08:57:00.002-05:00

I'm part of a new design/build team based in Newmarket. This will be my last attempt at starting a construction company. I realized that I'd have to include other services in order to maximize on profit.

So we are now offering complete design/build. From framing to finish.

Here's the updated list of services:

framing
drywall installation
drywall taping
painting
popcorn removal
interior design and decorating
wall and window covering
home staging

We are focusing on Newmarket and Aurora projects for now as we fine tune our new endeavour. The new construction company hasn't a name yet so I'll keep you posted when it gets registered. We will consider performing drywall taping and painting in Thornhill, Richmond Hill and Oak Ridges but will not go into Toronto or the rest of the GTA at this time.

Fred Joly Drywall Taper

2012-06-05T07:29:00.000-04:00

Fred Joly - Drywall Taper
Vancouver British Columbia
604.235.1595 (voice messages only)

canadian_web@hotmail.com

Objective

I'd like to find steady work with a busy construction company or create a new construction company.

Work Skills

uses both paper tape and fiber-tape
installs corner beads, roll-on bead and paper beads
rough sands between coats, minimizes finish sanding
takes no short-cuts, cares about final product

Employment Attributes

pays close attention to detail
has a willingness to learn new techniques
can work long hours in a six day work-week
quick, clean and demonstrates a high quality of workmanship
punctual, reliable and has good work ethics

Work History

1988 1.5 years trained with master taper and painter

1990 5 years commercial contractor drywall taping and painting

1995 1 year industrial demolition

1996 1 year residential renovations drywall taping and painting

1997 9 years engineering design civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, transportation

2006 5 years Internet marketing consultant

References

I can provide you with both character references and testimonials from recent contracts.

House Painting Newmarket Ontario

2012-05-17T06:23:00.003-04:00

My painter is looking for jobs this summer in Newmarket and Aurora.

Fred painting in a Newmarket residence

House painting has always been a service we offer but recently we have decided to expand this division. The type of projects we like include wall and plaster repair. All patch-ups get primed before applying two coats of paints. We are not the fast, college aged painter that'll fly through your house in a couple of days. No. We are careful, precise and extremely clean.

Professional Painters, Demolition and Wall Repair Specialists

We specialize in hard to reach areas, intricate window and doors trims. The more challenging the painting job the more likely it'll intrigue us.

Because we are reasonably priced for such exceptional workmanship no doubt you can increase the value of your home significantly and create a better living environment for your Newmarket home.

Call Fred relocated to Vancouver BC 604.235.1595 for a free quote and schedule openings.

45 Degree Angle Taping Challenge

2012-02-18T14:57:00.000-05:00

I recently had the opportunity to work with Martyn and Justin of House CSI (they provide consulting services and home inspections so I knew my best work was warranted).

Their project involved a challenging split-level second floor.

It was tough working for these home inspectors because they are extremely detailed in nature and have high expectations for their workmanship.

It took me a while longer than I planned but I made the inspection with flying colours! Here's some finished photos of my taping job.

an intricate arrangement with lots of 45 degree angles

great second floor bedroom

here's an interesting 45 degree protrusion

finally finished sanding the ceiling

putting finishing touches to corner beads with block sander

www.housecsi.com

When Telephoning Fred the Drywall Taper

2012-01-19T07:55:00.003-05:00

Hey, for the time being ...

Please Call for Drywall Taping Projects Between 7 - 9 PM / Monday - Saturday

I try to be a professional and will answer my telephone; whenever I am in cell phone range (I know that sounds like an oxymoron; but it's not).

Anyway. I've missed telephone calls again and I apologize for that. Due to the nature of my location throughout the day I am not in cell phone range very often. So, I've decided to install an answering machine and I'll let it take messages after four rings. The answering alternative will begin today some time. Feel free to leave a message especially if you want to speak about a drywall taping job. Remember that I also will take on painting work (because I like to change things up a bit in life). Remember that every taper's dream is to properly and calmly perform one project at a time while the next one lines itself up. I am learning how to book jobs in as much advance as possible. It's difficult because most people seem to call tapers up only when they are ready for them. Everybody wants their taping done starting today; well not everyone. I encourage you to seek professional help early in your game plan development. Now that was funny folks.

another small basement reno ready to paint
these tough little jobs make for good tapers

It is my hope that this invitation to leave me a message suffice to prove that I am in fact extremely interested in hearing of your work and will respond to you promptly upon attaining inquiry.

coupla' notes to consider:

- please leave a return email address along with your telephone number. I run through emails once a day, in the morning. I tend to respond quicker and more decisively electronically.
- do not text me
- desperately want to get a hold of me? try your luck during the daytime

Rule About Unknown Ventilation System

2011-11-25T12:58:00.000-05:00

New Drywall Taping Rule

If you place a hole in a column or a wall you must tell me that this hole sucks air into your heating/ventilation system. You must inform me of this innocent looking hole right from the get go and not when I am on site to perform my clean-up after I have completed the project (and want to get paid afterwards). Do not assume that dust won't get into your ventilation system and end up blowing on your nice pants upstairs [while you are conveniently out of town and pressuring me to finish up earlier than scheduled because you want the dust to be gone and me off-site before you come back].

And on that note, if other construction activities including power sanding of wood are simultaneously occurring while you are conveniently out of town then don't assume stray dust is of drywall sanding only in spite of it appearing to be white exclusively.

This new rule applies especially if you take off for days while I work and this hole is not covered with a grill nor contain any duct work. In another words, it looks like a hole that you want left open to install a recessed shelf, a case or a safe. You must tell me [before you leave town while I am there performing my drywall taping work] that this hole sucks in air into your ventilation and will blow dust throughout your house (and on your girlfirend's slippers).

After I have cleaned up most of the mess drywall taping creates in a construction area and I am ready to prime my finished surfaces (then pack up and clean-up) it is not a good to inform me that you are back in town, I owe you a bunch of money for cleaning, you took pictures and have contacted your lawyer.

note: sorry for the foul words and don't take me too seriously, consider this post to be like a blog therapy for some business stress

Solid Drywall Taping Quote Free

2011-11-11T19:09:00.001-05:00

I just sent someone a quote and I wrote "...On average, I bid around 65 cents a square foot for basements and wall repairs. Without seeing photos or visiting the site, a good estimate should be 80x4x8x0.75=$1920. That's without materials. As I'm unaware of your job's location, out of town projects can cost me significantly more in expenses so I quote them a bit higher."

Now that's as 'bout as fair's it gets; as good a solid free drywall taping quote as I've ever seen.

Drywall Taper Google Business Page

2011-11-09T18:44:00.002-05:00

My new Google+ business page is now resides here: +Drywall Taper

Drywall Taping Service Guarantee from DrywallTaper

2011-11-03T10:07:00.000-04:00

My Drywall Taping Service Fair Guarantee

I'll provide you with a durable, long lasting and well-finished product. You will inspect my work upon completion. If within six months you notice any defects or problems as a result of my drywall taping (IE: corner tape pops off, crack in butt joint or corner bead ... then please notify me immediately and I will promptly come in and resolve the drywall taping issue. You'll have to repaint it though. I request that you do not attempt the repair yourself or employ another contractor. Don't be too upset at me at first because the cause of such problems may or may not be as a result of sub-standard workmanship. Regardless of the root cause, I will correct the drywall taping concern and prime it (use sealer) at my expense (however, I will not repaint the troubled areas).

Then, six months after inspection and my final payment, you're on your own. Whatever happens happens.

How's that? Does my Drywall Taping Service Guarantee sound fair?

Wall Repair Merging New to Existing Drywall

2011-10-29T06:33:00.001-04:00

Garage Restoration Project in Stouffville Ontario

(a virtually impossible drywall taping project made to look like new)

Tape needed to be removed and replaced, new boards installed, existing boards re-fastened

Obstructions like crazy including garage door opener framing (very sharp).

After skim coat walls and ceilings looked brand new.

All defects fixed, wall completely restored.

One small touch up at bulkhead's extruded corner. Corrected with Spackle in five minutes was dry for sand/prime.

Stouffville Garage Drywall Taping Wall Repair

2011-10-15T05:39:00.002-04:00

I accepted the challenge of repairing and finishing a small garage in Stouffville. Here's some before, during and after photos of the project.

All the Joints had to be Re-Taped for Proper Wall and ceiling Repair.

It's Going to be Tough Merging New to Existing Drywall.

Most Board Needed Additional Fastening and Complete Skim Coats. Joists were not 16" Centers.

Marco and I Installed New Wall Panels Around Garage Doors.

It all Started Looking Like Walls After Third Coat.

New drywall and Existing Ceiling Merged Nicely.

Finished reapiring walls and started priming the drywall repair project.

Walls and Ceilings are Now Flat, Defect Free and Easy to Paint.

There were a Couple of Last Minute Touch-Ups Including a Very Noticeable Bulkhead Exterior Corner.

Balanced Painter

2011-10-11T18:50:00.002-04:00

Painter Balancing on Angled Plank / Two-Step Stool

Fred's showing off his painting abilities with his left hand. He says it helps to be ambi-dexterous as he can get an extra three foot cut without moving his ladder.

Showing Off Ambidexterity

Painting Midland Cottage Painter Illusion

2011-06-18T16:06:00.001-04:00

Had a few photos taken to add to this gallery of a recent painting experience at a cottage in Midland Ontario. I'd love to do more of these. This was the dream painting project for sure. I learned alot about painting too but what I learned most about this job is that you can't be afraid to get on your knees once in a while and work backwards to cut then sideways to roll. A good stretching before and after work periods is mandatory to stay limber.

Fred cutting baseboards creates the illusion of going up the floor

stucco A-Frame ceiling cottage painting project

Fred takes down-time on Georgian Bay shore to rock balance

painter reached new heights brushing stucco cottage ceiling

little bit tedious around the trim but fun painting job all in all

An Awesome Midland Ontario Cottage Painting Job

Painted Earth Bloor West Toronto

2011-05-23T09:30:00.002-04:00

An amazing painting project came up. We had to help paint the last two levels of a new restaurant Earth Bloor West in downtown Toronto. We spent four days there working sometimes until midnight in an effort to get it done on time. The grand opening was only minutes away before we painted the very last baseboard. The opening ceremonies was a huge media event with over 500 guests.

Earth Bloor West - "Think global. Eat Local."

The entire interior was painted black: black ceiling paint, slightly lighter shade of black wall paint and another barely lighter hue of black trim paint. The drywall taping was extremely rough but that wasn't my responsibility. I was there to paint. People all over the place walking to and fro, back and forth, stepping on mischievous paint drops and spotting the floor two hallways away but we did it (to my own amazement).

Painting Jobs in Toronto

I'd love to get a couple more painting jobs in Toronto exactly like this one. As my new drywall taping/interior decorating business is almost completely off the ground, this type of training will serve me well in the future.

Painting Bloor Street West Toronto

2011-05-16T19:46:00.000-04:00

Painting a commercial job (restaurant) on Bloor Street West in Toronto. It took me two hour to get to the job site and two hours to get home.

I think I'll get a motel nearby instead of commuting from downtown Toronto.

Finished Drywall Taping Project Today

2011-05-03T21:03:00.001-04:00

Like a true artist showing off a finished masterpiece.

(visit my Canadian artist blog to find out what I mean).

Bulkheads are square, level and will paint immaculately.

After priming the whole project I carefully look around for any "major" defects.

I had to repair a couple of the trickier bulkhead corners;

out came the Spackle (a fast drying drywall compound that doesn't shrink or crack).

The process is to apply the compound liberally ...

... then smooth it out with a six inch knife.

Wait to dry then lightly sand and re-prime.

The repaired bulkhead re-primed.

Another quality drywall taping project.

Looking forward to my next one!

Toronto Drywall Taper

2011-05-03T09:19:00.000-04:00

Highest Quality Workmanship

Looking to perform drywall taping on new homes in the Toronto Ontario Canada area.

First Coat on Bulkheads

Quick, clean, dependable contractor based in Newmarket Ontario looking for large homes in the GTA (or commercial projects).

Just starting out in business on my own with over five years training with master drywall taper.

I will travel anywhere in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area). I can finish approximately 10,000 square feet of walls and ceilings each week.

Finished Taping First Coat Completed

2011-04-25T20:30:00.001-04:00

Now that all my butt and lateral joints have been troweled for the first time and all my corners and corner beads are taped and hit once I declare my first coat to this basement renovation finished!

Fred is inspecting holes in the drywall that were cut out for the posts and wonders if he should fiber tape them or just fill them. He opts to tape them but that'll wait until the morning.

The intricate bulkhead work is taped and will be ready for a second coat in two days. There were over three hundred feet of paper beads in the bulkheads, sometimes three inches at a time.

Tomorrow I'll hit corner beads and butt joints first thing in the morning and maybe even get to top corners ... we'll see how it goes. That concludes another day for this drywall taper.