[timhag]

90% of the newer homes we go to are having problems (from the builders) with paper drywall tape becoming loose. For this reason i became a hugh fan of mesh tape. How about you guys.....paper or mesh?

 

[ProWallGuy]

Mesh only for smallish repairs. Paper on all full joints.
If the paper is coming loose, I would assume they weren't bedded correctly.

 

[slickshift]

90%???

...then it's the tapers not the tape

Seriously...that's horrible
But it's not the tape


Mostly I do re-paints, so the mesh is actually more convenient (repair type deals)
For big stuff I'll use paper, or a combo of mesh for flats, paper for corners
I always use paper for corners

 

[Rich]

paper for corners, but mesh for everything else...even bigger areas

 

[plainpainter]

unless you are going to use a setting type compound for corners - then you have to use paper. Paper coming loose is because guys aren't doing the job right.

 

[timhag]

Thanks guys

 

[Tmrrptr]

90% of the newer homes we go to are having problems (from the builders) with paper drywall tape becoming loose. For this reason i became a hugh fan of mesh tape. How about you guys.....paper or mesh?

Sounds to me like the builders got too cheap and the professional tapers went elsewhere.

I do mostly small jobs and repairs... use a lot of mesh.
Paper is a far superior product.
...and more difficult for a newbie to install properly.
r

 

[Joewho]

On repairs, where old tape has been torn out, there's already a bedline for the fiberglass to lay in.
On new drywall, it's not as easy to get the mesh folded exactly in half. Takes longer, and if there's dust on the walls, the fiberglass won't stick. Whereas with paper, you can get it folded as fast as you can unroll it.

I definately like fiberglass to fix a recurring crack and/or with durabond.

Edit: I vote MESH.
see below.

 

[Wolverine]

mesh... hmmm...

http://www.compucorgp.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/442220136_e127e75e351.jpg

Who votes mesh?

http://images.jupiterimages.com/common/detail/00/06/22180600.jpg

Who votes paper?

 

[jackrabbit5]

I was really leaning towards paper, but as usual, Wolvie is right. He makes it very clear that mesh is ultimately superior to paper. :notworthy:

 

[DelW]

Mesh has my vote.:whistling2:

 

[Tmrrptr]

Once again, the Dude has shown us the value of a direct presentation
by an educated professional.
r

 

[Wolverine]

I've got to pat myself on the back... that's probably my best post ever! lol...

 

[Tmrrptr]

It was indeed effective.
r

 

[Matt's Painting]

Paper VS. Mesh

From what I've read and experienced since my work is about 25% drywall. I use mesh on straight runs. Use the paper on corners. Using mesh on corners you could possible tear it applying your other coats. Plus it doesn't fold as nicely giving you that crisp corner.

A good read is, "Drywall, Professional Techniques for Great Results". By Myron R. Ferguson.

 

[Kelly Painting]

Love mesh...hate paper