Paper tape’s always been my go-to for anything that matters, too. I’ve seen mesh joints crack even when everything else was done right—especially on ceilings or corners where there’s a bit of movement. It’s just not worth the headache later. For quick patches, mesh is fine, but if I’m paying for labor or materials, I want it to last. Nothing worse than having to redo a whole room because someone tried to save a few minutes with mesh everywhere... learned that the hard way once.
Yeah, I totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve got an old place with plaster walls, and every time I see a crack pop up where mesh was used, it’s just... ugh. Makes you wish folks would just take the extra few minutes with paper tape, right? Corners and ceilings seem to be the first to go bad. You’re not alone—sometimes shortcuts just aren’t worth it in these old houses.
You nailed it—corners and ceilings are always the trouble spots, especially in these old houses. I’ve had to redo a few myself after mesh tape failed. It’s frustrating, but honestly, taking the time with paper tape pays off. It’s not glamorous work, but it holds up. Hang in there... you’re definitely not the only one fighting those cracks.
Paper tape is the unsung hero, but man, it’s a pain to get it just right, especially in those wavy old corners. I’ve tried mesh, I’ve tried the fancy “no-crack” stuff—still ended up with a few hairlines after a winter or two. These days, I just accept that a little bit of imperfection gives the place “character.” If you’re flipping, though, nothing scares off buyers like a ceiling crack... so yeah, slow and steady with the paper tape. Just wish my patience held up as well as the tape does.
These days, I just accept that a little bit of imperfection gives the place “character.”
Couldn’t agree more—old houses just have their quirks. I’ve chased cracks around my 1920s place for years and finally realized some lines just come with the territory. Honestly, I think a few wobbly corners tell a story.