Why You Should Avoid Fiberglass Drywall Tape Like The Plague
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Home Family -> subcategory Home Improvement.
Why You Should Avoid Fiberglass Drywall Tape
Why You Should Avoid Fiberglass Drywall Tape
Summary
Fiberglass drywall tape is widely used, but it has significant drawbacks. Here's a professional's take.
Key Points
Fiberglass tape, while popular, isn’t the best choice for drywall seams. Here’s why.
As a drywall finisher and plaster repair specialist, I’ve earned quite a bit fixing seams that were taped with fiberglass. Here’s the problem: drywall seams require a rigid tape to remain secure. Over time, fiberglass-taped seams, especially butt joints, can develop hairline cracks because the mud overcoat isn’t rigid enough to hold them tight.
For instance, long, recessed seams fare better because the mud overcoat is thicker where the tapered edges meet, providing added sturdiness.
Fiberglass tape is attractive because it’s easy to use?"just apply it and cover with mud. It's particularly appealing to novices since it doesn’t cause blisters. Many DIY guides recommend it for this reason.
However, mastering paper tape can pay off significantly. It requires skill?"applying mud evenly, smoothing the tape, and avoiding humps on butt joints?"but it prevents annoying cracks from appearing in new walls or ceilings.
Fiberglass tape does have its uses. It’s ideal for plasterboard seams under veneer plaster because veneer plaster is more durable than drywall compound. Additionally, it’s helpful in repairs, such as cracks around doors and windows caused by framing movement.
In such cases, I use short fiberglass tape pieces laid across the crack in a bed of mud, followed by paper tape over it for double reinforcement: lateral strength from the fiberglass and surface adherence from the paper. This approach is effective for pesky cracks, with a couple of topping coats added for good measure.
Finally, consider the toughness of the compound. I prefer "hot mud," a setting type joint compound similar to plaster for its strength. If you're unsure of your speed, use a slower setting hot mud, around 60 to 90 minutes. Mix small batches and clean your tools thoroughly between uses.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Why You Should Avoid Fiberglass Drywall Tape Like The Plague .
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