Drywall Repair: Fix an Inside Corner with Paper Tape like a Professional

Drywall repair is a skill that can make a significant difference in the appearance and longevity of your walls. Understanding the proper techniques can save time and ensure a professional finish. At Matthews’ Painting Company, our professional painters are skilled in repairing drywall, fixing interior wall damage, and creating smooth, seamless finishes.

One of the most common repairs we perform is fixing inside drywall corners using paper tape—a critical step in achieving a durable and professional result. In this blog, we’ll share insights used by our own team of professional painters on repairing an inside drywall to help you prepare for your own interior painting and repair projects.

This blog is Part 1 of 2 in our drywall repair series.

Watch Matthews’ Painting Company Owner, Jason Matthews, demonstrate the full process in this training video.

Why Professional Painters Use Paper Tape for Drywall Repairs

Paper tape is the preferred choice for repairing inside drywall corners because it provides a strong bond that prevents future cracking. Unlike fiberglass mesh tape—commonly used for stress cracks—paper tape is designed for corners. It offers the ability to fold neatly along the crease ensures a precise application, making it the go-to solution for professionals like our team at Matthews’ Painting Company.

A close up of a crack in the drywall in the corner of a room. Learn professional drywall repair tips from Matthews’ Painting Company.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before starting, gather the following:

• Paper drywall tape
• Joint compound (referred to as “mud”)
• A 4-inch or 3-inch putty knife
• Utility knife
• Sanding sponge or fine-grit sandpaper
• Drop cloths to protect the area

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare the Area

• Clear the workspace and lay down drop cloths to protect surrounding surfaces.
• Remove any loose or damaged tape and drywall material using a utility knife or putty knife. For fine cracks, paintable caulking may suffice, but larger damage often requires replacing the tape.

2. Apply the First Layer of Joint Compound

• Mix a 45-minute quick-set joint compound to save time during application.
• Use a 4-inch putty knife to apply a generous layer of joint compound to both sides of the inside corner. Ensure the layer is thick enough for the tape to adhere properly.

3. Position the Paper Tape

• Cut a piece of paper tape to the desired length and crease it along the center fold.
• Place the tape into the corner, pressing it gently into the compound.
• Begin smoothing the tape from the middle outward, removing excess compound and ensuring the tape adheres securely to the wall.

4. Smooth the Surface

• After pressing the tape firmly into place, apply a light layer of joint compound over the tape.
• Feather the edges of the compound beyond the tape’s width to blend it seamlessly with the wall.
• Aim for a thin enough coat to see the tape through the compound; this ensures you’ve applied the right amount.

5. Allow to Dry

• Let the first coat dry completely before moving on to additional layers. Drying times may vary depending on the compound used and environmental conditions.

Why Choose Professional Painters for Drywall Repairs?

Drywall and ceiling repairs often require precision, experience, and the right tools. Professional painters, like those at Matthews’ Painting Company, can handle complex repairs, including stress cracks, damaged corners, and extensive ceiling damage. Our team ensures repairs are completed efficiently and seamlessly, ready for priming and painting.

By leaving your interior wall repairs to experts, you’ll achieve a flawless finish that enhances your home’s aesthetic while saving you time and effort.

Exclusive to Matthews’ Painting Company

Exclusive to Matthews’ Painting, we can erect temporary plastic walls in areas of the house where the drywall repair work is isolated to a particular room or area when doors are not available to close which helps keep drywall sanding dust to a minimum. In addition, the drywall dust which is generated on interior drywall repair projects is vacuumed up with a filtered vacuum and dust bag. This is a great benefit to your health and overall wellbeing. Learn more about our Drywall Repair & Retexture service here.

Enhance Your Interior Painting Project

Repairing drywall corners is just the beginning. With the foundation set, you can proceed to priming and painting for a refreshed interior look. At Matthews’ Painting Company, we combine drywall expertise with superior painting services to deliver outstanding results for our clients.

Ready to refresh your space?

Contact Matthews’ Painting Company today to schedule your free estimate for your next painting project. Call us at 574-834-3575 or Book an Estimate online, 24 hours a day to get started! Whether it’s drywall repair, interior painting, or ceiling restoration, we’re here to help transform your space!

At Matthews’ Painting Company, we proudly provide top-quality residential and commercial painting services to the following cities and neighboring communities: Warsaw, Syracuse, Winona Lake, Columbia City, Goshen, Elkhart, Plymouth, North Webster, Leesburg, Milford, North Manchester, South Whitley, Silver Lake, Claypool, Burket, Mentone, Bourbon, Etna Green, Atwood, Pierceton, Larwill , Albion, Kimmel, Cromwell, Nappanee, New Paris, Millersburg, Ligonier, Wawaka, Bremen, Wakarusa and Churubusco.