Types of Joint Compound

Joint compounds are available powdered or pre-mixed.

Powdered joint compounds come in different textures. Taping compound is used for the tape coat. It is stronger and courser than the compounds used for the finishing process. Topping compound is thinner and finer. It's used for the fill and finish coats, and for texturing.

All purpose joint compound is halfway between a taping and a topping compound. It comes pre-mixed and is a good choice for do-it-yourselfers.

Chemically setting compounds come in powdered form only. They are generally very strong and therefore difficult to sand. A do-it-yourselfer might use this to patch and fill gaps created when remodeling plaster for walls.