Here's How: Tape Drywall Joints Like a Pro

James Dulley on Jul 31, 2025

Dear James: I have divided a large room to create an office, so I now have to tape the drywall joints. What are some taping tips so the joint locations won't stand out? -- Scarlett L.

Dear Scarlett: Hanging the drywall properly is easy. The difference between a good and bad job is the taping of the joint. If at all possible, you might want to practice on two "experimental" pieces before you start on the real wall, especially since this room has to look professional.

Often drywall joints look bad because the coats of drywall compound on the joints were too thick. A key element to a good-looking drywall joint is many thin layers of compound. Applying multiple thin coats is a process that takes more time and creates more dust, but it is worth doing.

The choice of tape may also affect the look of the joints. There are two kinds of tape you can use to secure the drywall in place. Paper tape is the stronger of the two but can wrinkle and trap pockets of air, which will look messy. Fiberglass mesh tape is already sticky and can be applied directly to the drywall. If you decide to use self-adhesive fiberglass tape, just take the backing off and apply the tape over the joint. If you are using paper tape, you first need to apply a thin bed of joint compound.

There are also two main types of joint compound. The first type, all-purpose compound, comes in both powdered and premixed forms. Used for any type of taping jobs, this type of compound takes a day or more to dry and can sometimes shrink as the water evaporates from it.

The second type is setting compound, which is only available in a powdered form. It sets up through a chemical reaction like cement instead of drying, so it cannot be premixed. This compound sets hard and doesn't shrink. Most professionals use this type for filling holes and wide joints. This compound is also recommended for use with the fiberglass mesh tape.

If you chose standard paper tape, take a small knife and apply compound to the joint. Smooth the tape into the compound and then work it from the middle outward. While the joint compound is still wet, put another coat of compound over the tape. Use only enough compound to cover the tape, which should still be visible through the compound.

If you use fiberglass mesh tape, cut a length of tape, place it over the joint first and then press the tape firmly down across both pieces of drywall. Next apply the compound over it. Let the compound dry thoroughly overnight.

After the joint compound has dried, use sandpaper to eliminate any irregularities from the wall. Then recoat the joint with the compound again. What you are trying to accomplish now is a feathered look, so the joint is not noticeable when finished and painted. Most likely, you will have to recoat the joint a few times, but remember to use thin coats. Also beware of getting the middle of the joint too high or it will show after the wall has been painted.

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Send your questions to Here's How, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45244 or visit www.dulley.com. To find out more about James Dulley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.