Industrial Maintenance Technician Practice Test 2025 - Free Maintenance Technician Practice Questions and Study Guide

When concealing joints in drywall construction, the first step is to apply joint compound, commonly referred to as "mud," to the joints. This process involves spreading a thin layer of the compound over the seams where two pieces of drywall meet. The purpose of this is to create a smooth and even surface for the tape to adhere to, thereby preventing air pockets or gaps once the tape is placed.

After the joint compound is applied, the tape is embedded into the compound, allowing it to securely hold the pieces together and providing a foundation for further finishing. This step is crucial because it not only reinforces the joints but also ensures that the tape will lay flat and won't bubble or peel in the future.

The other tasks, such as measuring the joints, applying a final coat, and priming the surface, come in subsequent steps of the drywall finishing process. Measuring is typically done before installation, while priming is a preparation step before painting, and applying the final coat is part of the finishing touches after the tape has been embedded and the initial coats have dried.