How to Clean an Automatic Drywall Taper | LEVEL5

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An automatic drywall taper is a mechanical tool that simultaneously applies the optimum amount of joint compound and tape to the drywall board joint – no matter how fast or slow it operates. This versatile tool can be used on horizontal and vertical joints along with inside angles. Automatic taping tools are an investment and, just with any investment, it’s important to take care of and maintain. So how do you clean an automatic taper at the end of a day? It’s easier than you may think.

Taper Care and Cleaning

Keeping any tool clean and in good working order is imperative to achieving the highest quality finish with every job. Here are some tips to keeping your Level 5 automatic taper in great condition:

  1. Joint compound should never be allowed to dry on the tools.
  2. Tools should be immersed in a bucket of clean water when not in use for short periods of time during the day.
  3. Tools should be cleaned completely at the end of each day.
  4. After removing the cover plate, use a hose or pressure washer to clean all joint compound off the tool.

Once the tool has been completely cleaned and rinsed, coat all parts with a lubricant. We recommend a light machine oil like 3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil for lubrication and maintenance. DO NOT USE SILICONE OR OTHER SPRAY LUBRICANTS SUCH AS WD-40.

How to Use an Automatic Taper

Learning to use automatic taping tools doesn’t need to be difficult. For those that are new to using automatic taping tools, LEVEL5 has teamed up with Drywall Nation to bring our family of finishers a complete series on how to use an automatic drywall taper. You can view our full ‘How to Use Automatic Taping Tools’ series here.

  • EPISODE 1: Getting the correct mud consistency for automatic drywall taping.
  • EPISODE 2: Setting up your compound pump for an automatic drywall taper.
  • EPISODE 3: Setting up and using an automatic drywall taper.
  • EPISODE 4: Taping walls and ceilings with an automatic drywall taper.
  • EPISODE 5: Taping inside corners with an automatic drywall taper.
  • EPISODE 6: Cleaning and maintaining an automatic drywall taper.