Paper vs Fiberglass Mesh Drywall Tape: A Complete Comparison

You've probably come across paper and fiberglass mesh drywall tapes while browsing the aisles of your neighborhood home improvement store. But what sets them apart? To aid in your selection process, we'll examine three key factors: adhesion, strength/flexibility, and moisture resistance.

Adhesion

Mesh drywall tape boasts a tacky backing, allowing it to adhere to the wall independently. On the other hand, paper tape requires embedding within a layer of joint compound. This characteristic renders mesh tape more user-friendly for the average DIYer, particularly when working on a flat stretch of wall.

Moreover, most paper tapes are pre-creased at the factory, facilitating easy folding along the center to create a right angle. This feature simplifies the process of covering both interior and exterior corners.

While it is possible to fold mesh tape manually, it's prone to becoming off-center. For corner applications, it's recommended to utilize a specialized mesh tape corner applicator and promptly cover it with setting compound. Alternatively, metal-reinforced paper tape offers even greater ease of installation and robust corner reinforcement.

Strength and Flexibility

Upon holding both tape types, they may seem equally flexible. However, paper tape significantly firms up after being embedded in joint compound, akin to papier-mâché.

This increased strength makes paper tape particularly suitable for butt joints. For those opting for mesh tape, it's advisable to eschew standard joint compound in favor of setting mud, which dries firmer and enhances overall strength.

Moisture Resistance

When it comes to moisture, fiberglass mesh tape offers distinct advantages. Its inherent mold-resistant properties make it an ideal choice for areas susceptible to dampness, such as bathrooms and backsplashes. With its ability to withstand water exposure, mesh tape emerges as a dependable solution in such environments.

Moreover, the versatility of mesh tape extends to specialized applications like tile installations. In the preparation of backer boards for tiling projects, selecting an approved fiberglass tape is crucial. Mesh tape's compatibility with these scenarios is notable, as it aligns with the durability required for tile work. Its reinforced structure not only helps prevent cracks and crevices but also ensures the long-term integrity of the installation, providing a solid foundation for subsequent layers of tiles.

In summary, the mold-resistant properties and adaptability of mesh tape, especially in moisture-prone environments and tile installations, make it a practical choice that enhances the longevity and reliability of construction projects.

Paper Drywall Tape

Paper tape lacks adhesive, requiring it to be embedded in a layer of joint compound to adhere to the drywall surface. While this process is relatively straightforward, it's essential to ensure complete coverage with compound and to evenly squeeze out any excess. Otherwise, air bubbles may form beneath the tape, compromising its effectiveness.

Fiberglass Mesh Drywall Tape

Fiberglass-mesh tape comes with self-adhesive properties, eliminating the need for embedding it in a layer of compound. This accelerates the taping process and guarantees that the tape will remain flat on the drywall surface. Additionally, it allows for applying the tape to all seams in a room before applying the initial coat of compound.

Although stronger than paper tape in ultimate load, mesh tape is more elastic, so joints are more likely to develop cracks.

Mesh tape should be covered with setting-type compound, which is stronger than drying type and will compensate for fiberglass mesh’s greater elasticity. After the initial coat, either type of compound can be used.

When it comes to patches, where joint strength isn't as critical as with a full sheet, mesh tape enables a quicker solution.

Conclusion

In general, paper drywall tape is slightly stronger and more versatile, but mesh tape has a more manageable learning curve and better moisture resistance. It comes down to personal preference: Use the tape you’re most comfortable with.