Can you tape outside drywall corners?

Yes, you can tape outside drywall corners. Taping the joints of drywall, including corners, is an important step when finishing drywall to help create a smooth surface. There are a few methods for taping outside corners, depending on your specific project needs.

Why Tape Outside Corners?

Taping drywall joints serves several purposes:

• It covers the seams between drywall sheets, hiding any imperfections or gaps.
• It reinforces and strengthens the corners and joints.
• It provides a surface for joint compound to adhere to.
• It creates a continuous surface that joint compound can be smoothly applied over.

Without taping, drywall corners would be more prone to cracking and damage. The tape helps create seamless corners that hold up better over time. Taping is essential for achieving smooth, professional looking results.

Materials Needed for Taping Outside Corners

Taping drywall corners requires just a few supplies:

• Drywall joint tape – Special self-adhesive paper tape designed for drywall joints. Paper fiber tape is best for corners.
• Joint compound – Also called mud, a plaster-based compound used for applying tape and coating drywall seams.
• Drywall knives – Used for applying joint compound. Flexible knives in 4-6 inches work best.
• Sandpaper – For smoothing corners between coats.
• Corner trowel – A tool with a curved blade specifically shaped for corners (optional).

Mesh tape should not be used for outside corners, as it is less durable. Make sure all supplies are on hand before starting the project.

Step-by-Step Guide

Taping outside corners is a straightforward process:

1. Apply a thin layer of joint compound to the corner using a drywall knife. Spread 1-2 inches wide on each side.
2. Press the paper drywall tape firmly into the wet compound. Smooth it out tightly into the angle. Remove any air bubbles or wrinkles.
3. Let the compound dry completely. This usually takes 24 hours.
4. Apply a second coat of joint compound over the tape, feathering it out onto the wall surface. Let dry.
5. Lightly sand the corner to remove any ridges or excess compound.
6. Apply a third and final coat of compound if needed to achieve a smooth finish. Let dry and sand.

It’s important to ensure the tape is embedded tightly into the corner with no gaps behind it. Take care to smooth each coat before it dries. Finish sanding will leave a seamless corner ready for primer and paint.

Tips for Professional Results

Follow these tips for perfectly taped corners:

• Use a corner trowel to embed tape. The curved shape applies ideal pressure into the angle.
• Fold the tape seam under to reduce thickness. Crease it by pressing into the corner with a knife.
• Apply thin coats of compound and build up gradually to prevent cracking.
• Feather out edges of each coat at least 8-12 inches from the corner.
• Sand lightly between coats when dry for a smooth finish.
• Inspect work under bright lighting to identify any imperfections before the final coat.
• Prime and paint corners after finishing for best results.

Common Problems and Solutions

Here are some common issues that may occur when taping outside corners and how to fix them:

Problem	Solution
Cracked or bubbled tape	Remove old tape, recoat with compound, re-tape and apply thinner coats.
Ridged or uneven corners	Sand between coats and feather out compound further from corner.
Compound shrinks or cracks	Mix in a little water to improve consistency and adhesion.
Corner gaps show through	Build up corner with additional coats focusing on problem spots.
Bumps when sanding	Avoid oversanding which exposes tape. Use light pressure.

Take time with each step and allow thorough drying between coats to achieve professional looking finished corners every time.

Outside Corner Alternatives

Here are a few other options for finishing outside corners besides paper tape:

• Metal corner bead – Plastic or metal corner guards take the place of tape for impact resistance.
• Bullnose corners – Rounded drywall corners don’t require taping for a softer look.
• Corner trim – Wood, metal or plastic trim hides corners without taping.
• No-coat corners – Special paper-faced corners are prefilled with compound.

These alternatives may be quicker or provide specialized corner looks for specific situations. However, traditional paper tape remains the standard method for taping most outside drywall corners.

Finishing Inside Corners

The techniques for taping inside corners are slightly different than outside:

• Fold tape diagonally rather than creasing before embedding in corner.
• Apply the first coat of compound about 2 inches wide on each wall.
• Feather out subsequent coats 4-6 inches onto walls.
• Avoid applying too much pressure when smoothing to prevent indentation.

The same principles apply of building up thin coats for crack resistance and thorough drying and sanding between layers. Inside corners may require 1-2 fewer coats to achieve a smooth finish.

Conclusion

Taping is an essential process for protecting drywall corners and achieving an attractive, professional finish. By following best practices for preparing surfaces, applying tape and joint compound, and proper sanding and drying between coats, you can create flawless, durable outside drywall corners. A few special tools and techniques for corners will take your drywall finishing to the next level. With some practice and patience, you can tape outside corners like an expert.