

And only paper tape can be used with automatic drywall finishing tools such as a drywall bazooka or drywall banjo. You don’t have to worry about taping corner tools getting caught on paper tape like it can with mesh. Paper tape can then be finished using a drywall finishing corner tool. That’s something you just can’t do with mesh tape. It can be folded in half to form a nice crisp angle that is placed in the corner. Paper tape should always be used when finishing drywall corners. This is especially important for butt joints that are slightly raised due to poor framing or improper drywall installation. It can be coated with a very thin layer of mud, and unlike mesh tape, it does not show through the mud very easily. When finishing drywall butt joints, paper tape is the preferred choice over mesh tape. However, it should not be used with topping mud, which does not have as much adhesive properties. Paper tape is much cheaper than mesh tape, and it can be used with most types of drywall mud, including all-purpose, lightweight, and quick-set drywall mud. It is the go-to method for taping and finishing drywall joints in new drywall installations.

Paper tape has been used for decades for finishing drywall. We respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe any time. Not recommended for use with automatic toolsīy subscribing, you agree to get emails from us.
#Using mesh drywall tape crack
May crack under the stress of major structural movementsĬan be used with drywall bazooka or drywall banjo Slightly better at preventing drywall cracks Needs setting mud for additional strength, not as good for butt joints Used for drywall repairs and small wall patchesīecomes firm after being embedded in mud, good for butt joints Used for finishing drywall joints, corners, and butts Self-adhering, only needs to be covered with quick-set mud This can result in issues such as sagging or bulging walls or ceilings.Ĭhoosing the right type of drywall tape for your project is important to ensure that your walls and ceilings look great and remain structurally sound for years to come.īelow, I’ll walk you through the differences in each type of tape and the benefits and drawbacks of each to help you choose the right one for your project, but if you’d prefer a nutshell view of the differences, here is a quick comparison table between the two: Comparison Table: Paper Tape vs Mesh Tape Structural issues: If you use the wrong type of tape, it may not provide enough strength to hold the drywall together over time.For example, using mesh tape on inside corners can result in a jagged or uneven finish. Difficulty achieving a smooth finish: If you use the wrong type of tape, it may be more difficult to achieve a smooth finish on your walls or ceilings.For example, using mesh tape on butt joints can result in visible mesh strands showing through the mud and making the joint look lumpy or bumpy. Cracking: If you use the wrong type of tape, the drywall joints may be weaker and more prone to cracking.On the other hand, mesh tape may not adhere well if used with the wrong type of joint compound. Adhesion issues: If you use paper tape in a location where moisture is a concern, it may not adhere properly and may start to peel off over time.If you choose the wrong kind of drywall tape for your project, you may run into a variety of issues. Why Choosing the Right Drywall Tape is Important Conclusion: Both are Good, But Not for Every Project.

