How to Repair Popped or Loose Drywall Tape

Cut back loose tape to sound material, re-tape the joint and recoat it. Use self-adhesive fiberglass mesh on a dry, stable flat joint.

What you need

Shine a raking light along the joint. Press each side and listen for clicks. Mark the ends of the defect.
Cut away loose tape and finish, starting where it is already detached. Keep going until you reach firmly bonded material.
Check the opened joint. It should be dry, flat across both sides, and free of soft board.
Clean off dust and loose bits without gouging the joint.
Press the self-adhesive mesh onto clean, dry board along the full run. Do not stretch it.
Force quick-setting compound through the mesh until the weave is hidden.
Add later coats only after the first has set. Keep each thin and feathered.
Sand lightly, prime and paint. Check under the original raking light.

Use quick-setting compound with self-adhesive mesh.
Extra thickness does not cure movement. It only makes a bigger ridge to hide.
Dust or dampness is the usual reason mesh will not stay put. Clean the board and use fresh tape.
Flat-roll mesh suits flat joints. Corners need a corner tape.

If the joint moves, the crack returns, or the board is soft, stained or musty, stop and find the cause first.
Tape does not waterproof. Fix any leak before repairing.
Disturbing old paint in pre-1978 homes can create lead dust.

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