Had to choose between paper tape and mesh tape on a big ceiling job last month

I was finishing up a 2,500 square foot office ceiling in Austin and couldn't decide which tape to use. Paper tape is cheaper but Ive had it bubble up on me in humid weather before. Mesh tape is easier to apply but I worried about cracking at the seems. I ended up going with paper tape because the GC said they wanted extra durability. Big mistake actually. The paper tape kept lifting in the corners and I spent 4 extra hours fixing air pockets. Shoulda just used mesh and moved on. Has anyone else had paper tape fail on a large flat ceiling like that?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_wesley8d ago

Ugh, paper tape in humid weather is just asking for trouble.

shanec617d ago

Mesh tape with mud worked WAY better for me in sticky weather. It lets the moisture escape without bubbling or peeling off. Took a little longer to dry but the finish was actually smooth.

the_claire8d ago

@the_wesley nailed it, paper tape just can't handle that Texas humidity.