While you might not think it, taping drywall is one of the most challenging parts of the sheetrock installation process. Fortunately, residents of Chandler, Arizona don’t have to worry about this with our trusty professionals in their corner. There are many different types of drywall tape, and we have experience with all of them.
Below, we’ll discuss more about the various tape types, our installation process, the cost to tape plasterboard, and more. Plus, if you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Sparta Drywall Chandler.
What Are the Different Types of Tape?
First things first, it’s crucial to know the different types of tapes and where they’re used. Let’s look at some of the common ones:
- Paper: This is the most common and traditional tape, mainly due to its versatility. Generally, this is found in rolls and applied with drywall mud when finishing plasterboard corners and seams.
- Mesh: This option is user-friendly, which has made it more popular in recent years. Made with paper and fiberglass, or just the latter, it’s known for being strong. It is often used to reinforce and join drywall. When it comes to preventing cracks and other imperfections on your surfaces and reinforcing drywall joints, this self-adhesive tape is ideal, as it’s extremely durable.
- Fire-resistant: This tape is constructed out of materials that withstand high temperatures, which add extra protection to your ceilings and walls. Thus, when it comes to construction, it's an important option to consider. You can also expect increased fire resistance of your seams and joints.
- Mold-resistant: Sometimes also referred to as moisture-resistant tape, this tape is used when you need to reduce the damage caused by humidity. Thus, you’ll typically find it in bathrooms and kitchens. This tape also slows down the deterioration of your drywall seams and joints.
The Process to Install Drywall Tape
The taping process is critical, as it involves creating a seamless surface by covering the screws and joints. Typically, this is what the process looks like:
Firstly, it’s vital to prepare the site. This involves aligning the drywall seams and ensuring the screws are appropriately inserted. It’s also a good idea to apply corner beads to the wall and ceiling corners to reinforce the area.
Next, mudding takes place. This involves using a drywall knife to add joint compound to the screws. It’s a good tip to put the joint compound in a mud pan before starting the process to have this readily available. Sealing joints is another vital part of the process. Once again, this is done with a drywall knife and is applied thinly between the plasterboard sheets. Not only does this allow for smooth drywall seams, but it also gives the tape something to stick to.
Now, it’s time to press the tape into the mud using a flat hand or a clean drywall knife, the tape will then be smoothed and embedded into the mud.
Once this has dried, use fine-grit sandpaper to gently get rid of any bumps. Lastly, a filler coat and final coat of mud are applied to the surface using a drywall knife, which is known as floating.
Now you know how we tape and float drywall to give you a flawless finish.
How Much Does it Cost to Tape Drywall?
On average, the cost per linear foot lies between $0.87 and $1.05. However, take this guideline with a pinch of salt as your specific project cost will depend on numerous factors. Note that this price range doesn’t include mud which is an important material to use for any drywall project.
Some of the elements to consider include:
- Labor: Different companies charge different rates. The rate is often charged on the hours taken to complete the job.
- Materials: The type of tape and mud you opt for will impact the final quote.
- Size: In general, your contractor may charge less for taping if your project is larger. This is because installing complete sheets of drywall is quicker and easier than constantly cutting around windows, doors, and corners.
- Complexity: The more complex your project, the higher cost you can expect. An example of this could be working on a room with high ceilings.
Why Should You Consider Drywall Taping?
Wallboard is paneled; hence, where several boards meet, there will be seams. These areas can be tricky to deal with as there are gaps. This also makes plastering a challenge, which is why taping is essential.
Firstly, taping works by sealing seams, giving you a more manageable surface to work with. This also creates a smooth surface, ensuring proper application and a more aesthetically pleasing wall or ceiling. Lastly, taping reinforces weak areas by strengthening the area and extending the life of your plasterboard.
What Are Some Common Issues and Causes of Improper Taping of Drywall?
Poorly applied tape can lead to a number of issues. Cracked drywall seams are one of the biggest problems, as this can cause costly repairs that are not simple to fix.
Another one of the worst things you could possibly see after gypsum installation is when tape shows through the drywall mud.
Bubbled tape and pitting are other issues you might experience.
Improper tape application is often caused by:
- Using the wrong tools
- Using damaged tools
- Over-sanding the sheetrock
- Improper joint compound application
- Not feathering out joints
- Installing corner beads incorrectly
Get High-quality Drywall Taping Services Today!
As you can see, taping sheetrock is an intricate job that requires the skills and experience of a professional drywall contractor. Fortunately, our team consists of experts who can get the job done perfectly and exceed your expectations. Therefore, if you’re looking for high-quality drywall finishing services that will last for many years to come, contact Sparta Drywall Chandler today.