So how about jointing tape? Jointing tape is made from paper, which has its own pros and cons. In practice, many professionals still prefer it for most jobs as it’s cheaper and comes in larger quantities so it’s convenient to have on hand for a range of jobs. But it’s a matter of preference. Remember that, although you can fold scrim tape, and it can sometimes be perfect for internal joints, for angles it’s usually not going to give you the same crisp edge you’d get from a pre-creased jointing tape. We researched the most sought-after drywall tapes in their respective categories and discovered that the best models are determined by their type, length and coverage area, materials, and other special features included by select brands.

Scrim tape, also known as plasterboard tape, is an essential material used by plasterers. If you are planning to take on a plastering project yourself, you will need to know how to use scrim tape properly before beginning. Mix only small amounts of joint compound at a time. Once the drywall compound begins to set, it can harden within minutes, so small batches help reduce waste. Many people search for the term ‘what is scrim tape?’ and as we mentioned above, it is used when plastering. Scrim tape fills the gaps formed where plasterboard panels join together. It is usually available in the form of a roll, consisting of a number of fibreglass threads. Getting the right materials for any job is vital. Fortunately these days it’s not hard to find just the right quality product, designed specifically for the task in hand.With such a specific purpose, you need to have the right circumstances to use this tape – there’s little point using it on a flat joint due to the two strips of thin steel embedded into the trim. This is what helps to create a crisp, clean finish on external corners and ensures a sharp line on all angles.

Creased paper drywall tape is usually used only on inside corners. There, flexible tape will likely fail to hold a sharp crease down the center. Outside corners are typically formed by installing rigid plastic or metal corner pieces over the drywall (called a “corner bead”), which are then attached with compound, adhesive, or even nails, depending on the type of bead. Scrim tape is designed specifically for this purpose and as such is a valuable tool when plastering. Generally, where plasterboard is being used, scrim tape should also be used to provide a clean and seamless finish. So, do you have to use scrim tape? No, but this will affect the finish. Can I overlap scrim tape? Last but by no means least, we have metal angle tape. Perhaps the least well-known plasterboard tape variety, this option is specifically designed for external corner joints and unique angles like those around bay windows for example.It’s only natural for first-time drywall DIYers to have some questions. Find some of the most frequently asked questions—and their answers—here. Q: How do you mud and tape drywall corners? If you need a tape you can fold and crease for a corner or angled join, you’re probably going to be looking at jointing tape over scrim tape. Jointing tape comes ready creased, but it isn’t self-adhesive. It’s not as strong as scrim tape, and you’ll need to add extra jointing compound, although experienced tradesmen usually find ways around this. Honestly, not unless you want to achieve less than perfect results. Scrim tape ideally shouldn’t be overlapped as this can compromise the quality of the joint and the finish of your plastering. Help, I’m confused! It’s the perfect solution for areas where rigid angle beads aren’t suitable, so if you’re looking for a simple way to tidy up angles and external edges with minimal fuss, metal angle tape could be the option for you.

Pros employ the first method, and for them, it’s faster. However, DIYers may find the non-adhesive tape slips around too much on the wet compound, making it difficult to position directly over the seam. Also, wrinkles may form in the tape that are difficult to smooth out. DIYers may prefer self-adhesive tape, because once it’s applied over the seam, it stays put. After that, installers smooth the compound over it, pushing the compound through the mesh surface and into the seam beneath. Inside vs. Outside Corners The main difference between adhesive and non-adhesive drywall tape is how the tape is applied. Non-adhesive tape, such as paper tape, must be embedded in a layer of wet joint compound applied to seams between panels before the tape goes on. Self-adhesive drywall tape, on the other hand, is positioned over the seam before the application of joint compound.In the world of professional taping, paper drywall tape is king. Paper drywall tape comes in rolls about 2 inches wide and anywhere from 50 to 200 feet long. Paper drywall tape is the thinnest tape, and the thinner the tape, the less visible the finished seam. This means that paper produces the smoothest possible seams—but only if used correctly. Paper tape is applied over a layer of wet joint compound used to fill a joint between drywall panels. The tape is embedded in the compound using a taping knife, and additional compound is smoothed over the tape to cover it. This guide outlines various types of drywall tape, some key considerations to consider, and some top products currently available.