Corner Tapes

Corner tapes are specialized tapes designed for finishing inside and outside corners of drywall installations. They help create clean, crisp edges, reinforced corners, and reduce the risks of cracking or damage.

The most common types of corner tapes include paper-faced metal corner tapes, flexible corner tapes, and all-in-one corner bead systems like Trim-Tex Fast Edge Roll and CertainTeed Levelline Flexible Corner.

Flexible corner tapes, like CertainTeed No-Coat tapes, consist of a high-performance composite material that flexes around angles for easy installation. In contrast, paper-faced metal corner tapes have a metal strip reinforced with a paper tape layer, requiring precise installation and bending to fit the corners.

First, apply a layer of joint compound to the corner edges. For paper-faced metal corner tapes, press the tape firmly onto the joint compound, then use a corner tool or trowel to embed the tape and remove excess compound. For flexible corner tapes, bend the tape along the embedded crease, place it over the joint compound, and press to adhere. Finish by applying a layer of joint compound over the tape, feathering the edges.

Some corner tapes, like flexible corner tapes, are easier to install for beginners due to their flexibility and adaptability. Paper-faced metal corner tapes may require more precise installation and experience for clean, professional results.

Corner tapes are available in a range of width sizes, most commonly from 1.5 to 4 inches wide. Lengths can vary between 25 to 500 feet, depending on the product's purpose and the specific needs of your project.

Corner tapes can be found at most home improvement stores, online retailers, or specialty building material stores, such as Master Building Materials.

While it is possible to use regular drywall finishing tapes for corners, specialized corner tapes provide better reinforcement, clean lines, and improved durability, especially in high-stress areas.

The drying time for the joint compound can vary based on factors like the compound type, thickness, and ambient conditions. Typically, it can take between 24 to 48 hours for the compound to dry fully.

Proper adhesion can be achieved by applying a sufficient layer of joint compound, ensuring the drywall surface is clean and free of dust, and applying consistent pressure to embed the tape into the compound.