Paper vs. Mesh Drywall Tape: A Complete Comparison

The decision between paper and mesh drywall tape can be crucial in achieving a smooth and seamless finish on your drywall. Both tape options have been widely used in drywall installation, with their unique strengths and applications. To ensure that you make the best decision for your home project, delve into a comprehensive exploration of the paper vs. mesh drywall tape debate, including an examination of their composition, application techniques, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

Paper vs. Mesh Drywall Tape: Key Differences

While both paper and mesh drywall tape serve the same purpose, their composition and application differ greatly. Paper tape is made of paper or paper-like materials, requires a joint compound for proper adhesion, and is suitable for experienced professionals. It can be challenging for beginners as it tends to wrinkle and bubble.

Mesh tape is more flexible and self-adhesive, as it is made from fiberglass threads or a combination of fiberglass and paper. This makes it easier to work with and provides better crack resistance. It is a popular choice among DIYers as it requires less effort to achieve a smooth finish. Ultimately, the choice between paper and mesh drywall tape depends on skill level, project requirements, and personal preferences.

What Is Paper Drywall Tape?

Paper drywall tape is a thin, flexible strip of paper used to reinforce and cover the joints and seams between sheets of drywall or gypsum board. It is typically embedded in a joint compound or drywall mud, creating a smooth and seamless surface when applied over the gaps between drywall panels. The product helps to prevent cracks and ensures a uniform, finished appearance in walls and ceilings.

Best for: 

• Projects with budget constraints.

• Areas where mold and mildew growth might be a concern.

• Minimizes the visibility of joints and seams.

Pros of Paper Drywall Tape

Paper drywall tape's affordability makes it an attractive option for those working within budget constraints, allowing for cost-effective completion of drywall projects without compromising on quality. The product boasts excellent adhesion to joint compounds, forming a strong bond that not only prevents cracks but facilitates the achievement of a smoother, more professional finish. 

Some varieties of paper drywall tape come treated with mold-resistant additives, making them suitable for areas where mold and mildew growth could be a concern. The valuable feature of tapered edges on certain paper tapes aids in minimizing the visibility of seams, elevating the overall aesthetics of the finished surface, and simplifying the finishing work. 

Cons of Paper Drywall Tape

Despite the benefits of using paper drywall tape, there are drawbacks that must be taken into account before using it for specific projects. Compared to mesh drywall tape, paper tape is less durable and can be damaged by movements and impacts, leading to tears and cracks over time. In order to achieve a smooth finish, several layers of joint compound may be necessary, which can prolong the drying and finishing process, requiring more time and labor. Improper application may also cause the paper tape to bubble or blister within the drywall mud, creating unsightly imperfections on the final surface.

Due to its vulnerability to deterioration when exposed to high moisture levels, paper tape may not be a suitable choice for areas that are prone to wetness, limiting its use to dry environments. Although relatively easy to use, achieving a professional-level finish with paper tape may require a higher level of skill and experience than other types of drywall tape, which should be considered before embarking on a project.

What Is Mesh Drywall Tape?

Mesh drywall tape offers superior flexibility and durability compared to paper tape due to its thin, open-weave fiberglass or plastic material, which reduces the likelihood of tearing, cracking, or bubbling. This self-adhesive tape adheres directly to drywall surfaces and is frequently used to reinforce seams and corners between drywall panels, particularly in high-stress areas. Mesh tape is highly adaptable and works well with both setting-type and ready-mixed joint compounds, making it a versatile option for any drywall finishing project.

Best for: 

• Reinforcing and finishing joints in high-stress areas where movement and impact are more likely.

• Reducing bubbling and blistering for a more flawless finish.

• Suitable for moderate moisture exposure.

Pros of Mesh Drywall Tape

Mesh drywall tape is a favored choice for finishing drywall due to its remarkable qualities. It boasts exceptional durability that resists tearing and cracking, which makes it an ideal choice for high-stress areas that are prone to movement. As a result, it ensures that the finished drywall remains stable and intact over an extended period.

As a self-adhesive, it simplifies and expedites the installation process, which makes it significantly faster and more efficient compared to traditional paper tape. Mesh tape forms a powerful bond with joint compound, which reduces the risk of cracks and ensures a smooth, seamless finish. When applied correctly, it minimizes the occurrence of bubbles or blisters, enhancing the quality of the final surface and eliminating the need for time-consuming repairs. Mesh tape's versatility in working with both setting-type and ready-mixed drywall mud gives professionals and DIY enthusiasts the flexibility to choose the most suitable compound for their specific project requirements.

Cons of Mesh Drywall Tape

Before choosing mesh tape, there are a few disadvantages to consider. The primary concern is cost, as mesh tape is typically more expensive than its paper counterpart. This can have an impact on the project's overall budget, particularly for larger areas or when cost is a top priority. Applying mesh tape to inside corners can be difficult, and additional materials may be required to address these areas properly.

The visible grid pattern that the open-weave design of mesh tape can create if not covered properly is a potential issue. To achieve a seamless finish, additional coats of drywall mud may be necessary, resulting in increased time and material costs. Additionally, some specialized types of drywall mud may not adhere well to mesh tape, limiting its compatibility.

Paper Drywall Tape vs. Mesh Drywall Tape

Adhesion: Mesh Drywall Tape

Featuring a self-adhesive backing, mesh drywall tape boasts an impressive ability to bond with joint compound and drywall surfaces. The outcome is a reliable connection that minimizes the likelihood of cracks and ensures a polished, seamless finish. In contrast to paper tape, which can also adhere when applied appropriately, mesh tape's adhesive properties make it especially effective in maintaining joint integrity. By reducing the risk of tape lifting or cracking, mesh tape is an ideal choice for anyone seeking to avoid future issues.

Flexibility: Mesh Drywall Tape

The open-weave structure of mesh drywall tape enhances its flexibility and movement tolerance, making it highly compatible with the natural expansion and contraction of drywall. Its effectiveness in reducing the risk of cracks or joint separation in areas where structural movement is prevalent, particularly in older homes with settling, makes it an excellent choice for reinforcing drywall.

Appearance​: Paper Drywall Tape

Paper drywall tape is preferred due to its flat surface and ease of blending into the surrounding drywall. This option often achieves a smoother and more seamless finish. In contrast, mesh drywall tape has an open-weave design that may result in a visible grid pattern if not covered properly. This can require additional coats of joint compound to achieve a seamless appearance.

Durability​​: Mesh Drywall Tape

Due to its open-weave design, mesh drywall tape is significantly more durable than paper tape. The design prevents it from tearing or cracking, which are often issues with paper tape. This durability is especially advantageous in areas under high stress or prone to movement as mesh tape aids in maintaining the drywall joints' structural integrity over time. Mesh tape is also more resistant to damage from impacts or building structure shifts, resulting in a longer-lasting and more resilient solution.

Moisture Resilience: Mesh Drywall Tape

When it comes to moisture resilience, mesh-based drywall tapes are the best. Mesh tape holds up better against moisture and mold than its paper counterpart, making it the optimal choice for damp areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. 

Price​: Paper Drywall Tape

Opting for paper drywall tape can be a smart move for those seeking to keep project expenses in check. Compared to mesh drywall tape, paper tape tends to be more cost-effective, allowing for substantial savings, especially for larger drywall finishing projects.

Ease of Installation/DIYability​: Mesh Drywall Tape

A local drywall installer may use either type, however mesh drywall tape is generally easier to install due to the self-adhesive backing. It adheres directly to the drywall surface, eliminating the need for an initial layer of drywall mud as required when using paper tape. This self-adhesive property not only saves time but also reduces the chances of wrinkles or air bubbles during installation, making it a more user-friendly choice for DIYers.