Im about to lower and plasterboard a ceiling. The existing ceiling and
ornate coving is too far gone for a (economic) repair and plaster skim.
The lath and plaster flat part of the ceiling has been skimmed in the
past but is now showing irregular cracking I suspect because the
original plater has parted from the laths.

I intend to use a metal grid structure designed for this purpose to
which all edges and the centre of each plasterboard sheet are attached €“
the plasterboard screws screw directly into the metal structure.

If possible I would like not to go to the expense of skimming
afterwards. This leaves just taping and filling the gaps. Most of the
joins in the flat part of the ceiling will be to tapered boards but
there will be some smaller butt joins with no taper, There is also the
gap or join where the new ceiling meets the walls. Im fully aware of
the techniques on taping and filling so that the joins, when painted,
become virtually invisible €“ staggering non-tapered butt joints and
feathering out over 6 to 12 inches etc.

Now the question. Which tape to use, paper or mesh? Many years ago I
just used paper jointing tape. Various Youtube videos show both being
used however its often unclear why one person uses the two different
types on the same job. Mesh tape may not give as crisp 90 degree corner
where a ceiling meets a wall and mesh tape may require a heavier grade
of faster setting jointing compound to make sure that it stays in place.
Paper tape may bubble whilst drying if not wetted enough with compound
whilst being installed but a lighter weight compound that is easier to
sand can be used.

In the instructional videos the tape used may be down to personal
preference and based on the speed of installation by a highly skilled
operative. I have no time problems and can wait a day for jointing
compound to dry before apply second or third coats.

Has anyone any experience with either of the two types of tape and which
jointing compound was used?

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