Paper tape or mesh (self adhesive)?

Question

I'm doing some work in my garage which has required some drywall removal/ reinstall including taping and mudding. On the first, small job I used some paper tape but on the last few jobs I used the mesh, self-adhering tape. I found the mesh to be easier to start with but the paper to be easier to finish and blend. What are the pros & cons of using either tape and why do I see most pros using the paper tape?

Answer 1

paper tape will give you a smoother finish, mesh takes more muddling,

Answer 2

Paper tape gives the best finish, but is harder to work with. It is also a lot cheaper than the mesh.



If you are doing a lot of drywalling and feel you can get a good result with the paper tape, then use the papertape.

Answer 3

In all my years of asking the pro's this question around the country, I've always gotten the same answer - Neither is better, it's a personal preference.

One pro told me you can't use mesh on inside corners, so maybe, the paper tape is dominant in the field because of that and they don't want to deal with different rolls.

Also, for any exterior work, ie: soffits, mesh tape is preferred. (along with durabond)

Answer 4

Because as you stated, the paper lays flatter than the mesh. And on non indented seams, that is what you want. Pros use the paper tape because they have no problem making it stick (mostly done through a "bazooka") Paper is cheaper in cost than the fibreglass tape. I have tried both for small jobs and prefer the tape....because there are certain tricks to know and if you know them, it is no sweat to do.

Answer 5

Paper tape may take longer to use until you get the hang of using it efficiently, but it is it quicker and easier to get a smooth finish and may require less mud.



Mesh tape is easier to work with, but requires more mud and time to sand down to get a smooth finish.



It's pretty much your preference as to which is better to use. If you find mesh tape is easier and don't mind the extra work to finish it, choose mesh. If you find an easy smooth finish more desirable, use paper tape.

Answer 6

You pretty much answered your own question with what you stated. The mesh is easy to start but the paper is easier to finish. The reason allot of pros use the paper is due to cost. paper is allot cheaper and if you do this for a living and handle it often enough it becomes easy to use as well.

Answer 7

I believe that what you are doing is correct.. Smooth the tapes and then the whole wall is skimmed. When a wall is skimmed, a PVA coat (glue) is applied, followed by a bonding coat, more PVA and a finishing coat of plaster. It is better to smooth the tapes first. That's my opinion anyway.

Answer 8

Mesh is better

Answer 9

It's all in the finishing, quicker and easier to work with, time is money,