Mesh plus hot mud is adequate, Iv taped thousands of house this way with little issue with cracking . Blown paper is the only issue I hear about in the uk. The other consideration is profile of joints , mesh is lower profile so you don’t have to build out the butt joint to 3 feet lol I don’t put mesh in the corners but plasters do and have been for years so it’s not a issue either, you fold mesh over a corner and flush hot mud over it ..it can’t blow it won’t crack within Normal conditions. Honestly in Europe and in the uk we use mesh on just about every new build house, I live in one and there’s no cracking . In my whole working life Iv only ever seen mesh crack under extreme weather/environmental conditions so propane burners etc Iv seen many many paper tape blow outs, it’s the number one complaint in finished homes here.

That was great information for the DIY person. I’ve been using both and never knew the difference between them. Thanks Ben.

Great explanation. Over the years Ive used mesh for patches but now have my whole basement to mud, so started to try paper after watching your channel. Many thanks.

When the Flash isn't saving Central City, he's drywalling.

I'm a DIYer so thanks for sharing. I really like how you simply explain how and why you do something along with the amount of detail you impart.

As a home owner doing small repairs your videos are very helpful. I used to do way to much work. Seeing your work habits has saved me a ton of time. Also, I’m much more comfortable doing something then touching up when there is a goof and I don’t get hung up about it. Your drywall videos are the best on KZfaq for practical and fast drywall work. Thanks so much for sharing this. Oh, and if I’m needing a house done I see why a pro saves time and money! I figure pro’s find doing a small patch ends up pretty expensive, so your sharing saves little jobs you don’t really want to bid on, and you stay on the jobs that make sense. Good karma here.

This professional in depth explanation for DIY enthusiast is what I was looking for through the internet for past few days :) Thanks!

Thank you for sharing your hard earned experience. Absolutely solid. No fluff, just straight forward teaching.

This is one of your better videos because it covers a single topic, gives explanation of the science and then most importantly, quick real world examples of how to apply what you taught, thanks!!

I'm an "old" carpenter that also occasionally does small bits of drywall. Your advice is very helpful. I've tried to like mesh tape thinking there must be a significant advantage but one I never could find. I think I've had the same slightly used roll of mesh sitting in my shop for years. Every once in a while I'll take another stab at using it but always find it problematic. I figured it was just my lack of skill. Thanks, your videos are much appreciated even by a guy that has been working at this for years. You are also courageous for teaching to such an opinionated lot (as are carpenters, well, it's actually the whole world).

Vancouver Carpenter, you are a class act. You are a breath of fresh air. In all my 35 years ( retired now ) in drywall, drywallers were known tax cheats in the underground economy and low life beer drinking drunks. You have good advice for all the homeowners. Keep the good work up and make a video about it.

Thanks for taking the time to put these videos together! Currently doing drywall repairs after a contractor re-pipe on the house. Started out doing small repair jobs as an Apt. manager in the 90's. Still using a pretty basic kit of 3 knives and just upgraded to a tin mud pan to avoid plastic chunks in the finish. Again, thanks so much for making this information available!

Thank you. I've done drywall off and on through the years. I just got my first job from a homeowner and that really helped clear some things up thank you

Hey Vancouver carpenter just wanted to say that your videos have been helpful and informative. Been fixing my own condo in vancouver, BC and these vids help. Much appreciated brother.

From what Ihave seeing in Aus, paper for corner, metal for protruding corner and mesh everything else.

THank you. For years, I've wondered (but never asked) when to use paper and when to use mesh. Working on my home this time around, it occurred to me it might be important to find out. You've made it very clear. I thank you for your clear and concise examples.

Glad I found your videos! It has been a while since my last drywall project and you have helped restore my confidence and shown me good new tips. Will be visiting again when I get to my crown and trim work. Cheers

Mesh is useful for more than small patches. It will save a home owner thousand if an upstairs tub or shower leaks. The smallest amount of water would cause paper tape on the ceiling below to fail, leaving a blister (often quite long) that would have to be removed and repaired often requiring matching texture or a complete retexture ( at least in my area). While with the mesh tape application you will see discoloring along the joint as an indicator that something went wrong. The plumbing issue can be resolved and after the ceiling below has thoroughly dried it can be resealed with a good primer and repainted with no repair needed to the drywall itself . Follow these tips when working with mesh tape. 1. Prep the joint surface to remove any broken or torn paper. This can be done as you are applying the tape just by looking ahead for any imperfections. 2. Use a small (3") knife to "wipe" it on. Similar to wiping down paper tape only you can start from the end rather than the middle. A small knife will stay down in the recesses of flats nicely and will get quite sharp to aid in step one. 3. Squeeze mud through the mesh in a similar fashion of how you would run your knife blade parallel to the joint when hand taping with paper tape. This encases the mesh in quick-set similar to when a concrete worker uses a hook to pull up on the wire mesh while pouring. This step can be thought of as pre-loading the joint before following through with the normal application of the bed coat. Finish the rest as per a normal paper tape job. I should say I'm on board with paper tape in corners and the use of quick set. However, I don't see any issue with using mesh tape and lightweight compound in non joint areas such as tabbinng around wall penetrations or small holes such as remove Romex for temp lighting. These instances are often high up in areas of indirect lighting where "Done is good."

This is a great explanation, thank you! I am fixing a popcorn ceiling that mesh tape was used and there is multiple cracks. I appreciate this video.

Fixing my botched tile removal project and have ended up watching several of your videos recently. Really enjoy them. Very informative. Thanks so much.

Another great turtorial. Thanks for taking the time to teach us your craft!

Even with hot mud it’s still vulnerable to cracking, I’ve seen drywall a year old crack from mesh and hot mud. I plain don’t use mesh period. Good to inform people that mesh tape is an inferior product. Thank you for your service!

HGTV needs to get this guy, can replace some of the other shows like love it or list it.

Great video Ben, your knowledge is shown in this video and in the work we've done together. Looking forward to the next video

Thank you VC, yes it is very helpful to understand the different applications to properly use tape or mesh. I also appreciate your video on fixing the drywall around the outlets. 2 thumbs up!!!

This guy definitely has a point ..but I have been doing painting for 10 years and some gyprock work ...never got a call back from customers complaining about cracks ..I prepare the joints well for my self because I'll be painting it ..if you do it right from a to z you have no worries at all ..multi purpose compound on mesh or paper is wrong ..use the one you mix it with water not premixed..wall corners definitely paper not mesh ..keep in mind if your not used to paper it could create air bubbles ..cheers

As always, a perfect explanation.

You're a born teacher...with great knowledge & experience base to draw from and pass on!

Now I know why the basement I finished twenty years ago has tons of minor cracks...I used mesh everywhere...because I did not know any better. Thanks for sharing...

all of your videos are absolutely killer. thanks for posting them!

That was probably the best explanation of tapes I’ve ever seen. Mind blown. I have had mesh tape crack before, along a whole butt joint.

Thanks for the explanation --you convinced me to use paper in my small office build inside my garage. I used mesh on some work in another house in the past, and you are correct: After several years I ended up with a few super fine cracks along some of the outside wall drywall edges.

good stuff! I'm doing my very first sheet rocking / mudding project right now! I'm using all your videos as my ONLY source of information!! so far, I'm very happy with the results.. thanks!!!

I agree with most of what was in video in regards to mesh tape. The higher stress areas can be adressed with a mesh tape I use that is at least twice as strong as the mesh tape you use in the video. Here's a GAME CHANGER: There is a SUPER STRENGTH mesh tape that I buy at the Home Depot that is wider and thicker and blows away the standard yellow or white mesh tape. The Best tape I'm talking about is like fiberglass mesh tape on steroids. It's Brown in color and wider then the normal mesh tape. I can guarantee that that The super mesh tape can be used on all those stress areas you mentioned with no issues of cracking. Personally myself I only do Drywall and Interior patching So for myself I never use the paper tape because I don't need it for the type of work I do. Now for a guy that does complete walls and rooms, the paper tape is faster to apply. I only use the super fiberglass tape on all my jobs now and I no longer use the standard white fiberglass mesh tape.

ben is the man! i look for dude to have some kinda tv show in the near future - that is he and his team: credit his camera/sound man & editor for sure!

Great explanations on the paper vs. mesh for do it yourselfers like me. I've always wanted to know the difference and I've always been told that there's really no difference. GREAT JOB on the explanation!!!

Thank you a ton for taking the time to do these videos. I learn a lot and don't for granted the opportunity to learn from a quality tradesman.

About 5 min in, I wondered why you would ever use mesh, and by the end you addressed that very question. Excellent video, very informative! Thanks.

i use paper for long spans and multiple joints etc. Mesh is used for quick fixes like small holes, gouges and imperfections. Since mesh is pliable you can sink it into the hole a bit. I think of it as mini rebar for joint compound. I never had any cracks or issues with my repairs

Great explanation and real world examples of the type of drywall application (especially if structural stress, or hot/cold). Thanks for sharing and not just covering the theoretical, but it's practical application (golden).

Some very good points. I have always used mesh for the small projects including the latest bathroom renovation. I used mesh but I also stabled the mesh on either side to secure the joint more. Stabling may address the shrinkage of the mud as mentioned in vid keeping the mesh in tension. Stabling is very quick and mud covers it well.

Mesh tape for flats using only - Hot mud (sheetrock - 90, 45, 20, 5) for 2 coats and final coat with premix Paper tape for corners using pre mix on all 3 coats

I switched from tape to mesh and never looked back. Never had any of the cracking problems you talk about and I made a small tool to fit the mesh into corners perfectly. It all comes down to personal taste. I have shown people how to do their plaster, most of the time with tape they always get blisters, with mesh never a problem. I've been doing renovations for 35 years and my own home has mesh throughout and never had any issues with cracking.

Your videos are pure gold!! Thank you so much for sharing all this info!!!

Thank you I learned stuff I did not know about. Very helpful with a DYI in my master bath.

You got it. There’s no debate among us drywall finishers. Paper tape with All Purpose. However, while I haven’t used it, I suspect Fiber Fuse is a good go between.

In France, mesh tape for plaster dry walls is forbiden. 100% paper tape. Mesh tape is used for Fermacell dry walls.

Straight to the point no unnecessary talking, helped me choose as well. thanks

Good video man. I haven't taped in years and was just brushing up. Thanks for the time you spent making the video for DIY's like myself.

This is the only explanation that kinda makes sense. Having said that, i have used the mesh with the ap mud and have never had a problem. Granted, I am not a profession dry wall guy but i have done it dozens of times on poorly constructed homes. Also, the corner thing is really not an issue, I have been using an inside corner tool and it is much easier, saves me a lot of time, and produces a good corner. I do need to start using quick dry and none shrink muds for the first coat thu. That will speed things up a lot.

Thank you for that tip. Looks like paper tape wins for me. As a DIY guy I’ve used mesh tap on lots of my jobs and couldn’t figure out why it doesn’t look good finished. It also don’t sand well, you have to be very careful or you end up seeing the mesh. Keep up the good work. 👍🏻

Dude, this was fantastic and made perfect sense when you walked around the house! Thank you!

I love you man! I watch your videos WAAAAY too much....just did a small project ( baseboards) went south when previous installers glued everything down...ripped out chunks of my drywall! My son was helping me....and I’m like “ I got this!”.. fixed the drywall. Taped, textured and it’s like it never happened...my son was thinking his mom has mad drywall skills! I took the praise ( he’s 21...I need all those moments I can get) ...but here’s to you my friend, Ben. You made me look good! Kudos

For my skill level, which means I have done drywall many times over the years, but not as a profession, I have found that paper tape is great for corners. However, for long seams, and especially ceiling seams, the mesh tape has resulted in better results. It is easy to lay down just a bit too much mud on the seam and then the paper tape leaves a noticeable raised area. By comparison, when I used mesh tape, my result was well-blended and nearly invisible seams after shooting on texture. Now, I am not challenging the expert on his experience or opinion with paper tape. As for me, I just get better ceiling and wall seams with mesh.

5:50 I come for this.

Love the way you explain things so easy to understand thanks man!

Thanks Ben. I’m a carpenter woodworker who really dislikes rock and mud. Probably because I’m so bad at it. I have even hired sheet rockers for small jobs that have done a worse job than me because of lack of confidence. With all the fires near me, it has been impossible to find anyone to work so I have started to do my own mud. You have absolutely saved me.

I used nothing but mesh tape with all-purpose mud when I lived in northern Illinois, never had a crack, used the same when I moved to Las Vegas and close to half my joints cracked , tried mesh with hot mud, better but still some hairline cracks, now nothing but paper and no more cracks. So I would say environment plays a lot into the debate.

I like mesh tape on butt joints because it can be sanded almost flat; paper tape needs to be mudded on both sides, so there is always an embarrassing bulge to blend-in. Mesh is also good for an "irreparable" fault line that's so busy that it makes paper tape bubble up or peel; you just paint on a few layers of mesh and skim the mud over it when it dries. Mesh might also be better near the ocean or in a bathroom; I've seen houses on the coast in which half the paper-taped joints are curling and peeling. Finally, if you use mesh on a corner, for whatever reason, just make sure that one panel goes all the way into the corner and the other gets all the tape, so that the corner itself is the fault line; I can't imagine trying to fold mesh the way paper is folded.

Bro your channel is not only informational but great to watch awesome job.

I'm a drywall finisher with about 40 years of experience in residential, and commercial construction. You are correct when you say paper tape wins hands down. Rule #1...I only use mesh on metal framing, and NEVER on wood...wood warps and equals cracks. Rule #2...I also don't use mesh on butt joints. I do lots of work in the casinos in Atlantic City, and most of the time the jobs that I'm doing have to be completed in a day, and mesh tape and Durabond fast setting joint compound make that possible. The advantage of using mesh is that you don't have to embed the tape in mud and wait for the tape to dry before applying your first coat upon the tape. Essentially, you have the job approximately 1/2 complete in just a little more time than it takes to apply one coat to the job! So, as you can see, it's a great timesaver. As far as using fast setting compound, that is also correct, but I only use brown bag Durabond when I use mesh. The reason for this is that the brown bag product is much harder after drying than other joint compounds. That translates into less cracks for longer periods of time. So remember even though it's fast setting compound, avoid using Durabond EZ Sand, or other lightweight fast setting joint compounds as they are softer when they dry...they can be easily scratched and crack easily also. Working with quick setting compound is tricky, even for pros who use it all the time, so make sure you will benefit from using it before you attempt it, and good luck to all you brave souls out there...

Lol, I always called it the “taillight warranty”. Same idea.🤘

I am moving away from paper tape I have a few rolls and when they are finished I am never going back. Hot mud with mesh tape will never bubble, crack or peel. I only use 5, 20 and 90 minute mud I am done with all premixed mud

Thank you so so much for this and other vids. I have a 95 YO home that I have done a lot of reno to. Many jobs were not able to be done with the "it's all gotta go" (you know who) philosophy. To expensive being the main reason. As such I have had to do a lot of Blending from Drywall to plaster over wood lathe. LOTS OF FUN! :( Mesh has seemed to be the best solution for these joints as there is never an even thickness to blend. So I became comfortable with mesh. After doing an ACTUAL "it's all gotta go" (almost all) on the kitchen thanks to your videos I managed two pretty good amateur 45 degree vertical drywall joints from floor to ceiling. Sold on paper now. For sure mesh still has a place but less so for sure.

I never knew that. I thought it was just preference. Makes total sense. Thanks.

Torsional an shear strength... you're not making up words dude that's a perfect description.

Best place for mesh tape I've found is behind ceramic tile on cement board.

Hi Ben firstly thank you so much for all of your videos they are incredibly detailed in ALL of the best ways! You are a gifted teacher!! I highly respect your knowledge and the incredible skills that you are so graciously sharing with us on here. You are entertaining while also being full of so many vital tips! For weeks and weeks I have hyperfocused on absorbing everything you have to say about drywalling, lol I even have a little notebook that I write all of your tips in as I watch your videos for me to reference back to while renovating so I don't forget anything important(I have adhd). I'm currently working on my husbands office which is a mix of freshly hung sheets (10mm) and older painted drywall (9.5mm) with every different type of joint possible all needing to be taped and majority needing floating out (think like a mix of your nasty reno video series mixed with your settlement crack video, your mud framing videos and add james and the giant patch), there was some rusted metal beading on the outside corners where the bottom of the skylight shaft meets the ceiling (we have a new roof now so the historical water ingress issue is sorted) that I ripped out, there was a crack either side of the skylight opening coming from the edge of the shaft where the ceiling boards meet (from poorly planned drywall cutting/hanging by a previous owner) the ceiling crack either side also had no tape on it when I sanded it back to check, no supportive framing behind the cracked drywall between joists (I went up into the roof and added blocking/dwangs) behind the seams and discovered it was poorly laminated (due to age now flexible ) original horsehair plaster, plus the room has multiple sources of light coming in at different angles and times of the day (window+skylight+door) so floating it out well and skimming will be essential to make it not look like a dogs breakfast. I love to study the next steps in my reno before jumping in so it is more likely to be successful and I'd rather not have to pull out my poorly laid tape or corner bead out (so your videos have absolutely saved me!!!!) My house is nearly 100yrs old (in New Zealand) and I'm trying to do as much of it myself as possible so your videos have been absolutely invaluable to me!!! IMO you are the gold standard 👑🏆for drywall knowledge and skill and I'm so grateful you choose to share that with the world - Thank you so so much!! ❤ Any chance you could PLEASE do a video with your opinions on these products and/or doing a comparison video of Strait-Flex Crack-Tape/Tuff tape VS Fibafuse Tapes? Please 🙏I know you don't like the Fibafuse because its super itchy and I have only seen you do a few videos that use either brands products (I know paper tape is THE WAY majority of the time) but I have a few bits in this office reno and also other parts of the house that I think may call for them and because I'm in a super small country and the only places to ask opinions about this as a DIYer are either online forums (which I don't know how much I can trust the commenters opinions - there are a lot of cowboys here) or talk to the sales rep who just wants to sell me the product. You are the only one I trust to ask about this! I hope you see this 🤞I know its an older video 🤞 Sending you all the good vibes from NZ 🥝🥝

Ben. I love your vids. You are the only person to point out the fact and the possible problem with paper tape and hot mud. I had a hole behind a bathroom mirror that needed patched. I covered it with hot mud and paper tape. An hour later I noticed that the tape had raised up of the wall a little bit. Thanks for the great vids. Can't walt to see you do something different besides drywall

Nicely explained. I'm a fan of mesh, and I use it by choice. There's no chance of bubbles with mesh. Mesh however will twist and move if it hasn't stuck properly. Also it can deform if plastered over too vigorously. Also sanding can be a problem if the depth of the mud is insufficient. Do you not use steel corners in Canada? We use both internal and external here in Australia.

Just to add that mesh tape won't make it in hot places, hot countries let's say. Here in Portugal everyone uses paper tape because mesh tape cracks in about 50% of the situations. In turn it can be used for small repairs or small lengths without any problems. Good luck everyone.

Maaan, I appreciate your videos so much

Very useful!!! Great breakdown. Thank you so much!

If your not into tailgate warranties, you should try tail light warranties they're even quicker. As soon as you see my tail lights turn on the warranty is up. lol

Extremely clear explanation -- thanks!

Watched a couple of your videos, this video easily earned the subscription. Keep it up Ben!

Can you do a video about using "paperless" fiberglass tapes like Fibafuse ??

You should checkout FibaFuse... it's fibreglass meshtape, it's better than both because it's denser than the mesh but soaks the normal mud all the way through, you can use it in a bazooka like paper... makes it super thin and you can sand it to nothing if you need to (can't sand paper tape). It's what I use, but what do I know, I'm not a pro.

Outstanding video. Full of practical and experienced tested information. Learnt so much about taping and mud. Now to put the information on my ceilings and walls myself.

Thanks, this was very helpful for my small new drywall project.

00:24 mesh tape is also better when you do reno and want to use 20min mud. And also when the new drywall is not perfectly flush with the existing drywall and there is a great chance of bubbles and wrinkles. Mesh tape conforms better to uneven surfaces

Please review the fiberglass tape...looks like paper but is woven fiberglass...It works best for me.

Terrific video. This is what I decided many years ago (after actual results), but your answer has greater depth and understanding.

Very informative! Thank you! Excatly what I needed to know.

Great video eh! Many years ago when mesh tape was just invented I used that mesh tape thinking this will make taping our living room so much easier (however I did used paper in the corners)... Well every single flat joint has cracks going across it. I have to re-do ALL the joints in our living room. From this experience I really don't like that mesh tape, I'll make sure to only use paper for everything from now on. I just found your channel this evening and watched 3 so far, you know your stuff and explain things very well. Thumbs up! 👍🏼from Ontario 🇨🇦eh :)

Would love to see Fibafuse tossed in the mix for review.

Very informative. Thank you. I've gone back to the shop to swap all-purpose mud for quick-set mud on mesh for a ceiling patch that has been secured with wooden battens and screws.

I've seen this information before. But never got the why. The why Really helps me with the learning process so I remember it. Many thanks for all the information I've learned from you!

20 seconds in, correct, no debate paper tape rules, better fill, try folding mesh tape for a corner, it sucks. It's fine for small job or patch. This expert says paper too.👍 and mesh self adhesive wouldn't work in Ames taping systems. (Bazooka).

They should make a paper mesh tape combo. Same thickness just benefit of both.

Very well done in all ways. Thank you. I'll be sure to look for you for future projects...there is that deck coming up...

Perfect tutorial. Thank you!

Tailgate warranty LOL 3:20

I have over 30 years of drywall finishing experience. When mesh tape came out, we used it in some cases, but none of us liked it and we quit using it. I have never found any type of drywall finishing that would require mesh tape. You mentioned that mesh should be used with quickset powdered mud, not true. 2-3 good coats on mesh is sufficient. As I stated, I never use mesh tape. Paper tape is the best tape to use. The key factor is putting enough mud on the joints and in the recessed edges to fill them in and then wipe down the tape from the center to the ends. But the secret is this: allow the mud and tape to dry overnight before applying the next mud coats. Float the joints after they are dry, with a bed coat, using an 8" knife. The following day, use a 10" knife to float a skim coat. That should be enough, but if the joints seem to need another coat, slim a 3rd coat again with a 10" knife or a 12".

I wish I'd found your channel a long time ago. Thank you for the good info.

Thank you! I've been doing a full remodel, I've only ever used paper, but I saw a short video where someone was using mesh, and got curious. I've had ZERO problems with my paper tape, I guess I'll still be sticking with the tried and true!

I have been doing exclusively drywall repairs for the last 6 years and the few call backs I've had are from using paper. Virtually the opposite of what this guy is saying

Ok ok I'm sold Mesh tape it is

Thank you, I learned two important things. Mesh tape and covering the screws, compound. Over time….where I live, there is house movement. Living on a tropical island, Definitely need green board.

I'm a drywaller in central Canada (Manitoba). I exclusively use mesh and swear by it. I also do not use nearly as loose mud as you use. I mix the mud but add no water at all and have great success. There are a few potential clients that want me to use paper (even though the examples of my work they saw was with mesh). I may take them up using your method of watering it down. Love your videos and will continue to experiment!!