Drywall tape that is separating from a wall or ceiling is difficult to fix. The only real solution is to replace the old tape with a new one. Here is our step-by-step guide on how to do it.
You’ll need:
- Razor knife
- Drywall tape
- Spackling paste or drywall joint compound
- Bowl
- 200-grit sandpaper
- Primer
- Paint
Remove the Old Drywall Tape
The first thing you need to do is remove the old tape with a razor knife and clean the surrounding area.
Apply the New Drywall Tape
You can choose any type of drywall tape you want. But, keep in mind that you’ll have to purchase drywall mud if you opt for paper tape.
What’s more, applying paper tape will require a couple of additional steps. So, if you don’t have time for that, and especially if you’re a beginner, you should go with mesh tape.
After placing drywall tape, you should go over the surface with spackling paste or drywall compound (mud). The compound is a slightly better option, but the choice is totally up to you.
If you opt for the compound, you should choose the one that can be sanded since many regular ones need too much time to dry out. In order to make it easier to reach, it’s best that you put the compound in a bowl and mix it with water if it isn’t pre-mixed.
After you apply the paste or drywall compound, you should read the instructions to see how long you should wait before applying the next coat. It would be best if you didn’t do anything until it’s completely dry.
After the drying process is done, you should sand the surface to get rid of spots. A 200-grit sandpaper will do the job.
If you notice that the tape is showing through, you need to instantly stop sanding and apply the next layer of paste. Two coats will be enough, and you’ll need to sand the area after every layer to ensure that everything is smooth.
Prime and Paint
Another step that is totally up to you is priming. This step is optional but will ensure that the paint is long-lasting.
Finish by painting the wall or ceiling, so it matches the rest of the surface, and you’re done!
You may also like: Best Drywall Tape to Cover Cracks
