Professional Drywall Finishing Tools: The Complete Contractor List

Nearly every construction project relies on a quality drywall job. If you're looking to take your projects to the next level, professional drywall finishing tools help you work cleaner, bigger, and more efficiently. Whether you're a pro contractor or a homeowner, quality drywall tools are worth the investment.

For over 150 years, contractors and homeowners have counted on Hyde Tools. Finish drywall projects with our wide selection of mixers, pans, sanders, and more. We offer tools for every stage of your drywall project so you can get the job done right.

There are dozens of different drywall tools for every step of the process, but it's worthwhile to shop around and not just go for the first thing you see at a big box store. Both professional contractors and weekend DIYers can get a lot of use from professional-grade knives, sanders, mixers, and more.

Pro tools are generally easier to clean and more efficient, helping you conquer bigger jobs in less time. Many professional tools have ergonomic grips that keep your joints comfortable after long days on the job. They're also more durable, which means you can use them for years to come.

Look around to find quality tools that match your personal preferences and are up to the level of your drywall projects. Owning a variety of tools prepares you for any situation that comes up on your job site.

Getting your joint compound to the right consistency is key for professional-looking drywall. Quality mud  mixers, which come as stand-alone machines or power drill attachments, make the process easier.

When it comes to a mud pan to hold the joint compound, many drywallers prefer stainless steel because it's easier to clean and can withstand heavy use. You can also use a hawk to hold and transport the mud.

Taping is a simple process, but good techniques and tools make a difference.  Taping knives are generally made from flexible steel and available in a variety of sizes, including 6", 8", 10", and 12". You'll typically work up in size, using larger knives for the final steps. 

There are many  types of drywall finishing knives, as well as  finishing trowels, which offer more flexibility.

Automatic taping tools improve finish quality. While they are harder to clean, you may find them helpful on larger jobs with more complicated taping.

Corner tools, which allow you to spread joint compound on both the inside and outside of a corner, are a key tool for a professional finish. Look for corner knives with ergonomic handles.

Much like  pressure washing a house before painting, sanding helps ensure a smooth drywall surface. That's made easier with drywall sanding tools, which can offer both easier cleanup and more control.

•  Pole sanders work well for sanding large, flat surfaces like ceilings or high walls. Professional models offer sturdier construction and easier abrasive sheet changes.
•  Hand sanders are effective for smaller areas and more detailed work. Professional models often feature ergonomic handles and more durable clamps.
•  Sanding sponges are used for corners and detail work. Professional models come with sturdy clamps for faster corner work.
•  Power drywall sanders come in both corded and cordless varieties, and many models offer collection systems for  dust-free sanding. Many professional contractors count on these tools for easier cleanup and better safety on the job.

Overall, look for sanders that are comfortable to use and suitable for your drywall projects. If you're a homeowner, using a power sander with a dust collection system helps you keep things clean and keeps the air in your home easier to breathe.

Clean and maintain your drywall finishing tools by wiping them down after use and storing them in a dry, clean place.

If you've spent a weekend hanging and finishing drywall, you know that poorly designed tools can slow down your work as well as cause joint pain and fatigue. Professional drywall tools combat this with fatigue-reducing grips and more lightweight materials. Manufacturers build these tools for those who do drywall all day, every day.

What's more, professional tools are designed with durability in mind. These tools won't break on the job or need frequent replacements, which saves you money in the long run.

Many professional tools also help you speed up drywall finishing, including automatic tapers. While they are more difficult to clean, they are one of the most effective tools for saving time on large drywall jobs.

Protect your drywall finish tools by keeping them clean, dry, and stored in a safe place. After each job, wipe off any remaining joint compound from both the blades and handles of your tools. 

Be especially cautious with steel blades, which can corrode if not properly cleaned and dried after each use. While stainless steel knives just need washing and drying, you may want to lubricate your blue steel blades before storing them.

Store your tools with the handles up in a well-organized rack. Leaving them in a pile or scattered on a worktable makes it more likely that you'll accidentally chip dent a blade or damage an edge.

You put your sweat and skill into your construction projects. You deserve a satisfying end product. Professional drywall finishing tools make sure your work always looks great. Whether you want to step up your game or do what you do on a bigger scale, professional quality helps you get there.

Hyde Tools has everything you need for superb craftsmanship and professional efficiency. We make our tools for people ready to do serious drywall work. Check out our full selection of  drywall tools today and see how we can help you.