The choice of tape can have a big impact on achieving clean, durable and professional plasterboard finishes. Whether your project is big or small – a home renovation, a commercial project or a big construction job, good tape can go a long way to reinforcing joints, reducing cracking and creating a smooth surface to finish.
Plasterboard jointing products come in a range of formats, including paper tape, scrim tape and specialist corner tape (UK). Knowing the difference between these options can help you choose the best solution for your project and save you money.
A tape wholesaler can be trusted for consistent quality and competitive prices if you are a trade professional or a business looking to buy in volume.
What Is Plasterboard Tape?
Plasterboard tape is a reinforcing material applied to the joints and seams between sheets of plasterboard. The main idea is to bolster these areas and help prevent visible cracks from occurring during the natural expansion and contraction of the boards.
Depending on the application, plaster tape can be paper or woven fibreglass mesh. The type to be adopted depends on the system of jointing, the state of the surface and the finishing method.
The correct tape is vital for a neat job for a professional plasterer and dryliner. Wrong tape or bad quality can make the joints move, crack or problems during finishing phase.
Why Plastering Tape is Important?
Plasterboard joints are inherently weak because two boards meet at the same point. If it is not properly reinforced, cracks can form with movement or with variations in temperature and humidity.
Good quality plastering tape gives an extra reinforcement across the joint. This helps to spread stress and gives jointing compound or plaster a stable surface to adhere to.
Using the correct tape offers a number of advantages.
Reduces cracking around plasterboard joints
Strengthens the joints between boards
Provides a more stable surface to the joint compound
Contributes to a more polished professional finish
Suitable for residential and commercial use
Different widths and materials for different jobs Available
Buying tape in wholesale amounts can also help with project planning, and keeping jobs consistent, for contractors that have more than one project they are working on.
Plasterboard Tape Types Available in the UK
Not every plasterboard job requires the same type of tape. It is useful to know the main options before you buy.
Joint Tape for Plasterboard
Plasterboard jointing tape is specifically designed to reinforce the joints between plasterboard sheets. It is generally used in conjunction with jointing compounds to give a smooth and strong bond between boards.
Paper joint tape is a traditional choice, and is often used by experienced professionals, because it makes a strong joint when applied correctly. It takes the right preparation and use, but the end product can be very durable.
Mesh or scrim versions are also used. They are usually self-adhesive and can be conveniently positioned over joints before the jointing compound is applied.
Scrim Tape Application
Plastering scrim tape is usually fibreglass mesh and is used to reinforce plasterboard joints and other areas that may be prone to movement or cracking.
It is easy to apply, which is one of its advantages. The self adhesive scrim can be placed right over a clean joint and the finish material can be placed over the tape by the installer.
But the tape should still be used correctly. Surface must be clean, dry and free from dust before installation.
Corner Tape Plasterboard
Corners need more attention because they are exposed to impact and movement. Plasterboard corner tape is used on internal or external corners to help create a neat straight edge.
Some speciality corner tapes have stronger reinforcement or built-in features to help you achieve a precise finish. Choosing the right corner reinforcement product for high traffic areas can improve long-term durability.
Joint Tape (Paper)
Paper tape is still the favourite in professional plasterboard and plasterboard finishing. This is especially useful in conjunction with a compatible jointing compound and properly embedded in the joint.
It may take a little more technique than self-adhesive mesh but experienced installers often like the strength and professional finish it gives.
How to Tape Plasterboard Joints Correctly
But it’s not just about having the right product, it’s knowing how to tape plaster joints, Even the best tape can go bad if not applied properly.
The plasterboard surface should be dry and clean, ensuring the joint is properly prepared and free of loose dust.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the jointing compound. Put the tape over the seam and press down hard. Embed the paper tape into the compound, but try to avoid too many trapped air bubbles and wrinkles.
Apply a second coat of plasterboard compound over the tape. Let dry and apply additional coats if desired. Once dry sand gently to create a smooth joint between the plasterboard and joint.
The exact technique will depend on whether you are using paper tape, mesh tape or a specific jointing system, so always follow the instructions supplied with the product.
How to Pick the Right Tape for Your Project
The best tape is not the cheapest tape, but the best tape for the application. Before you order, please take these things into consideration.
Material
Paper and fibreglass mesh tapes have dissimilar properties. Paper is the standard for professional joint finishing but mesh can be handy for quick application and some repair or reinforcement jobs.
Width
Select a width that provides adequate cover over the joint. The wider tape can provide more coverage but the standard widths are usually fine for normal plasterboard joints.
Adhesive
If you opt for self-adhesive scrim tape, check the quality of the adhesive. It should adhere well to the prepared surface and allow for rapid completion of the jointing process.
Application
Consider where the tape will be used. For typical plasterboard joints, for repairs, for corners or for areas that need extra support. Specialist products may be needed for specialist applications.
Quantity
For professional contractors and trade businesses, knowing how much they need before they order can help to avoid delays. If the same product is needed on multiple projects, it may be useful to purchase in bulk from a reputable tape wholesale supplier.
Benefits of Buying Plasterboard Tape in Bulk
Contractors, builders merchants and trade businesses can gain in a practical sense by buying construction consumables in larger bulk.
A trusted wholesale supplier has access to several tape types, sizes, and specifications in one format. Buying in bulk may also help in stock management and reduce the frequency of reordering.
Another important consideration is consistency of product. In professional jobs, material consistency can be a help to predictable application and finishing results.
Tapes Wholesale is a supplier of tape products for trade and commercial use in the UK. Our aim is to help businesses and professionals find the right tape products and take advantage of competitive wholesale buying opportunities. If you require assistance in choosing the correct product for your application, Contact us for more information on available options and trade requirements.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the most basic of plasterboard jobs can be ruined if the tape is not applied properly. Common errors include laying tape on a dirty surface, not putting the tape in the center of the joint, using jointing materials that are not compatible or not using enough compound.
Another error is to try to speed up the drying process. Allow the jointing compound to dry thoroughly before sanding or applying the next coat.
Also it's important not to think that any tape can be used for any application. Always check the intended use of the product before purchasing, particularly when working on corners, repairs or areas exposed to additional movement.
Final Buying Tips
Before you buy plasterboard tape in the UK, think about the type of plasterboard, the jointing system, the location of application and how much you need. If you are using standard joints then the right jointing tape and compound can give you a good base for a smooth finish.
If you’re working on a larger project, buying from a reputable tape wholesale supplier can make it easier to manage your stock and may even cut the overall cost of materials.
Most importantly, don’t just look at cost but at product suitability and quality of application. With the right tape in the right place you can make cleaner joints and a more durable finished surface.
Questions Frequently Asked
What is plasterboard tape?
Plasterboard tape reinforces the joints between sheets of plasterboard. It helps to prevent cracking and gives a stable base for jointing compound or finishing materials.
Can I use scrim tape for plasterboard joints?
Fibreglass scrim tape is often used for plasterboard joints especially if a self adhesive mesh product is preferred. And always check that you’ve chosen the right tape for the application.
Difference between paper tape and mesh tape?
Traditional product for reinforcing joints, embedded in the jointing compound. Mesh tape is normally fibreglass and can be self-adhesive which makes it easy to position before applying the compound. The best choice will depend upon the jointing system and the installer’s preference.
Where can I buy bulk plasterboard tape in the UK?
Trade customers can buy plasterboard and other tape products from specialist wholesale suppliers. For contractors, builders and businesses that regularly need tape for construction or finishing projects, buying in bulk may be useful. Need help with product availability or wholesale requirements? Contact us!