Hyde Job Guides

How to Choose Paper or Mesh Drywall Tape

Paper tape is the conservative choice for most joints. Self-adhesive mesh suits small, stable, flat repairs when used with setting-type compound.

What you need

• Model 09062Self-Adhesive Fiberglass Joint Tape, 2” x 50' Roll $3.01 each$2.05 each at 100 or more

  Add
• Model 09004Self-Adhesive Fiberglass Joint Tape, 2” x 150' Roll $4.62 each$3.14 each at 100 or more

  Add
• Model 09065Self-Adhesive Fiberglass Joint Tape, 2” x 300' Roll $7.47 each$5.08 each at 100 or more

  Add

• paper tape
• setting-type joint compound
• all-purpose joint compound
• primer

Steps

1. Identify the surface. Plaster, tile backing, exterior gypsum and veneer plaster are not ordinary drywall.
2. Check the board is stable, dry, supported and in one plane.
3. For paper tape, bed it in compound as the compound maker directs and finish with later coats on schedule.
4. For mesh, press it onto clean, dry board without stretching it, then force setting-type compound through it.
5. Try a small mockup first if you are not sure which suits your joint.

Tips

• Mesh on flat joints, paper in inside corners. Flat mesh cannot imitate a creased corner tape.
• Roll length changes supply, not strength.
• If a paper joint bubbled once, mesh is not automatically better. Check support and movement first.
• If mesh shows through, the feather was too narrow or the center overfilled.

Watch out

Questions about the right tool for your job? Email cs@hydestore.com or call 508-916-6442.