Scrim Tape vs. Paper Tape: Which One Should You Use and When?

What Is Scrim Tape?

Scrim tape is a self‑adhesive, open‑weave mesh tape designed to reinforce plasterboard joints and prevent cracking. It is usually made from a strong fibreglass mesh that adheres directly to the surface, without the need to pre-apply jointing compound. This makes it quick and easy to use, especially for both DIY enthusiasts and professional plasterers.

Its purpose is to strengthen plasterboard joints and stop movement‑related cracks from spreading through the joint. Scrim tape bonds firmly to the board and becomes an integral part of the plaster finish, ensuring a neat, long‑lasting result.

What Is Paper Tape?

Paper tape, on the other hand, is a flat strip of paper with a crease down the centre, designed for jointing plasterboards. Unlike scrim tape, it does not have an adhesive backing and must be embedded into the joint afterwards using a layer of jointing compound.

While widely used in the past, paper tape requires more skill, time, and a perfect technique to avoid bubbles and peeling. It is also prone to tearing or lifting if not applied correctly, leading to visible cracking once the plaster dries.

When Should You Use Scrim Tape?

Scrim tape is incredibly versatile. It can be used across all plasterboard joints, corners, and patch repairs. Here are some typical applications:

1. Joins between plasterboards: Ideal for reinforcing flat joints before skimming or plastering.
2. Ceilings and large surfaces: Because of its flexibility and adhesive strength, it remains secure on overhead surfaces.
3. Quick repairs: Perfect for reinforcing cracks or filling damaged sections in existing plaster without needing full re‑jointing.
4. High‑moisture or high‑temperature environments: Its mould-resistance and vapour-resistance make it suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, and unheated developments.

Essentially, scrim tape is the go‑to solution whenever you need speed, strength, and long‑term stability.

Why Scrim Tape Is Better Than Paper Tape

Here are the reasons:

Effortless Application

Scrim tape’s self‑adhesive backing allows it to be applied directly to plasterboard, no jointing compound required beforehand. This eliminates extra preparation time and reduces mess on-site. Paper tape, by contrast, must be embedded in a fresh layer of compound and carefully smoothed to avoid bubbles.

Crack Prevention

The fibreglass mesh composition of scrim tape distributes stress evenly across the surface, preventing cracks even on joints that experience movement. Paper tape lacks this reinforcing structure, so cracks often reappear if the underlying board shifts.

Superior Durability

Scrim tape is tear‑resistant, moisture‑resistant, and designed to withstand site conditions. On the other hand, paper tape can easily rip or lose grip when exposed to humidity or when the jointing compound isn’t perfectly dry.

Time Efficiency

Professionals appreciate scrim tape for the sheer speed it brings to a finishing job. You can stick it directly on and plaster over it immediately. This makes it ideal for busy trade environments and anyone managing large‑scale projects on tight deadlines. Paper tape adds multiple steps that slow progress, making it less practical for modern workflows.

Consistent Results

Scrim tape eliminates the most common issues associated with paper tape, like wrinkles, blistering, and bubbles. It remains firmly in place throughout plastering, providing a consistent, clean finish every time with minimal rework.

Why Walther Strong Scrim Tape Leads the Market

Walther Strong’s Heavy‑Duty Orange Scrim Tape takes all the advantages of standard scrim tape and enhances them with professional‑grade performance and reliability. Every feature is designed for real‑world performance, even under challenging conditions.

Key benefits include:

1. Alkali-resistant: Protects against chemical breakdown from plaster compounds, ensuring longevity.
2. Prevents cracks on all joints and corners: Reinforces seams so the final surface stays smooth and crack‑free.
3. Easy‑to‑see: Improves visibility during application, minimising overlap errors and saving time.
4. Doesn’t fray: Maintains neat, stable edges without disintegration during handling.
5. High‑strength adhesive: Ensures perfect stick to plasterboards, even on dusty or uneven surfaces.
6. Heavy‑duty scrim that can be crossed over: Allows seamless overlapping across wider joints or more complex repair areas.
7. Stays put on both flat joints and corners: Delivers secure adhesion in vertical and horizontal applications.
8. Easy release from roll: Makes handling smooth and efficient without tangling or tearing.
9. Tested in both cold and hot environments: Proven durability for year‑round use across varying site conditions.
10. Compatible with the Marshalltown Tape Jointing Tool: Enables effortless, clean installation on both flat and corner joints.
11. Mould-resistant and vapour-proof: Prevents moisture ingress and fungal growth, protecting the integrity of plaster finishes.

Walther Strong scrim tape is designed to perform flawlessly in residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Builders and plasterers who rely on consistency, durability, and time‑saving solutions will find it a dependable essential for every job.

Choose Scrim Tape for Reliability and Speed

If you work in plastering, renovation, or interior finishing, the choice between scrim tape and paper tape ultimately comes down to performance and efficiency. Paper tape may have its place for particular corner detailing in traditional settings. Still, scrim tape leads the field for everyday use and especially for modern drylining systems that demand speed and reliability.

It bonds instantly, resists cracking, endures temperature fluctuations, and saves valuable time at every stage. Simply apply it, plaster over it, and achieve a strong, clean, lasting finish.