Plastering Tapes (9)

Plastering Tapes: Your Comprehensive Guide to Plastering Tapes

Plastering tapes essentially strengthen joints in plasterboard and ensure a connection that's both seamless and secure whether plastering a tiny patch of wall in the kitchen or a major industrial property.

Self-adhesive plastering tape provides high tack adhesion with open mesh design that will remain flat and is easy to apply, even in cold conditions.

The following guide helps to provide further information relating to plastering tapes, including their types, functionality, usage recommendations, and tips for optimal performance.

Table of Contents

1. Why Should I Use Plastering Tape?
2. What Types of Plastering Tapes are There?
3. How Should I Apply Plastering Tape?
4. What Happens if I Don't Use Plastering Tape?
5. How Do I Repair Deeper Holes in Plastered Walls and Plasterboard?

1. Why Should I Use Plastering Tape?

C&W Berry supply several different types of plaster tape for cracks, that are commonly used for reinforcing and repairing cracks in walls, particularly in drywall or plaster surfaces. This fibrous mesh tape provides additional support when applying joint compound or plaster over cracks or seams. Commonly referred to as Scrim tape, it is highly effective because it allows the compound to adhere better, preventing the crack from re-appearing.

2. What Types of Plastering Tapes are There?

Drywall tape is used to reinforce joints between sheets of drywall and prevent cracking. There are two primary types of drywall tape: paper tape and mesh tape.

1) Paper Tape:

• Strength: Stronger than mesh tape
• Use: Ideal for butt joints (where drywall sheets meet edge-to-edge) and corners
• Application: Requires a layer of drywall joint compound (mud) underneath, as it does not have an adhesive backing
• Finish: Provides a smoother finish when applied properly

2) Mesh Tape:

• Strength: Less strong than paper tape but easier to use
• Use: Ideal for smaller repairs and thin cracks
• Application: Self-adhesive, which makes it easy to apply directly to the joint without needing joint compound underneath
• Finish: It can be more difficult to achieve a completely smooth finish due to its mesh texture

Both types are commonly used, but the choice depends on the specifics of the drywall project you're working on. Paper tape is often preferred for new constructions or larger projects, while mesh tape is popular for repairs and simpler projects.

3. How Should I Apply Plastering Tape?

When working vertically, start at the top. Stick around three inches of the tape to the plasterboard, with an equal distance on each side of the joint. Smooth the tape down the joint, pressing it firmly on as you go.

At the end of the plasterboard, cut a straight tape edge and work in a similar way if applying horizontally. When applying to corners, work in a similar fashion but push the tape securely into the corner. 

4. What Happens if I Don't Use Plastering Tape?

Using Scrim tape provides an excellent solution to prevent cracks and will help to ensure a long lasting repair. It should adhere to the wall without the need for additional adhesive to achieve a very strong bond.

If it is not used or fitted correctly the plasterboard joints will have weaker areas which in turn will lead to the plaster cracking over time.

Plastering tape helps to create a smooth, seamless finish. If you skip it, you may notice visible gaps or uneven surfaces where the plaster meets, which could be noticeable once the wall is painted.

5. How Do I Repair Deeper Holes in Plastered Walls and Plasterboard?

We offer a self-adhesive fibreglass mesh which incorporates a metal patch, to make it easy to quickly repair any damage left behind from things like the removal of plug sockets, light switches and fittings.

This clever, cost-effective solution is ideal for making long-lasting repairs and can be used to provide a strong base prior to finishing with a fast drying multi-purpose filler.

For further technical information relating to our range of plastering tapes, please telephone our main sales line on  01772 431 216 or email [email protected].