Differences Between the Paper Tape and Fibreglass Tape in Walls and Ceiling Finishes

Although there are a myriad of tapes out there in the market, we all have our best picks when it comes to choosing which one is best suitable for our walls and ceilings.

In this article, we will be looking at two types of tapes, and they are; Paper tape and Fiberglass tape.

Before deciding to use any of these tapes, it is crucial to understand what they are, their features, and most importantly, their significant differences.

Hang on till the end to know all there is to the Paper Tape and Fibreglass Tape.

What are Paper Tapes

It is an adhesive tape used as a tool for painting, packaging, and fixing broken home equipment, windows, doors, walls and ceilings.

It is made with a paper backing that is covered with adhesive layers.

Paper tape comes in different colors, thicknesses, unique designs, and styles. It is a standard finishing tool used when painting walls and ceilings in homes and offices because it adheres just as well as wallpapers.

Paper tape has the benefit of being able to be easily removed when you decide that the look you're going for isn't quite right.

Paper tape can be applied with the hand or with a roller, making it great for DIY projects and also for individuals who want to try their hand at wall and ceiling finishing.

Main Features Of Paper Tape

The main features of paper tape that makes it so appealing are;

1. It has an elegant look that will compliment any decoration in your homes and offices. So you can always find a paper tape that suits your home and offices perfectly.
2. It is easy to install: All you need is just your hands to get it fixed. Also, you don’t have to worry about damaging any paints on your walls and ceiling finishes.
3. It is environmentally friendly. The paper tape does not contain any toxic chemicals that could harm humans or animals, making it an excellent choice for adults and children who might be exposed to them in their offices and schools.
4. It is long-lasting. It can be used on your walls, ceilings, or appliances temporarily or permanently.
5. Paper tapes can cover damaged electrical outlets and other imperfections in your homes and offices.

What is a Fibreglass Tape

This tape is made from a resin material commonly used for sealing cracks between wooden boards or metal sheets, plumbing leaks, gluing joint drywall, preventing the formation of cracks, and walls and ceiling finishes.

It is a strong, flexible, durable tape that can be used for interior and exterior applications. It is available in diverse colours, thicknesses, and widths that make it appealing to the eyes.

The adhesive on fibreglass tapes is much more durable than some tapes and can withstand severe weather conditions better.

Main Features of Fibreglass Tape

1. Fibreglass tape has the feature of easy application. It can be easily placed wherever desired, so there are no worries about getting everywhere messed up.
2. It has a consistent strength and performance that makes it not lose adhesion for a long while.
3. It can be painted over using backing material such as gypsum board or plywood.
4. Fibreglass tape can be easily removed from any surface without damaging the walls and ceilings.

This means it can be peeled out without using chemicals(acid) that can be hazardous to health and the environment if spilt mistakenly.

1. Fibreglass tape sheets are thin enough such that there are no seams where they meet together on the roll.

These features mentioned above make it easy to create any finish you want in your homes and offices.

Paper Tape Vs Fibreglass Tape in Walls and Ceiling Finishes

Paper Tape and Fibreglass Tape are one of the most common Wall and Ceiling finishes that you can use in your home/offices.

However, there are significant differences between using paper tape and fibreglass tape in these areas.

The following points set the gap between the fibreglass tape and the paper tape:

1. Paper tapes are used conveniently in buildings with low ceilings, such as offices and homes, While fibreglass tape is used in buildings with high ceilings, such as; hospitals, warehouses, and schools.
2. The paper tape is a more flexible material, while the fibreglass tape is firmer, stronger, and lasts longer.
3. Paper tape is a type of plastic used to bring down wallpaper on the walls and ceilings of your home. At the same time, Fibreglass tape covers the seams on a ceiling or wall.
4. Paper tape has a broader range of uses. For instance, it can be used on a variety of surfaces, while the Fibreglass tapes are ideal for use on wall surfaces that have special requirements.
5. The paper tape is more affordable than fibreglass tape, making it an attractive option for homeowners who want to improve the look of their ceiling and walls without breaking the bank.
6. Fibreglass tape is also waterproof and will not deteriorate over time. At the same time, paper tapes wear out once water touches them. This makes fibreglass an excellent choice for sealing plumbing surfaces.
7. The paper tape is usually used on ceilings because it is easier to install and remove than fibreglass tape,

Fibreglass tape, on the other hand, is more difficult to remove once installed but also ensures that it will not affect the finish of your walls or ceilings if left in place long enough.

8. The Paper tape has an adhesive that dries quickly, whereas fibreglass tape has an adhesive that dries slowly.
9. Fibreglass tape is much more rigid than paper tape, making it easier to apply in a straight line.

This is important when using a roller on the ceiling because it will leave a clean cut.

10. The paper tape also tends to fall apart at the edges if you are not careful when applying it.

The fibreglass tape, on the other hand, is sturdier than the paper tape, making it more difficult to tear or break off.

On A Final Note;

Most tapes aren’t suitable for use in places where there are children or pets because they can easily chew through them. This can cause them to swallow pieces which can cause choking or suffocation.

Ingestion of paper tape and fibreglass tape can cause gastrointestinal problems, while inhalation of these tapes can lead to irritation of the respiratory tract, nose, and throat.

Since Paper tape and fibreglass tapes are both excellent options for finishing walls and ceilings in your home, make sure to follow the necessary safety guidelines when installing a paper tape or fibreglass.

At USG ME, our Sheetrock Brand Paper Joint Tape, and Fiberglass tape are a good choice for your paper tapes.