How to Repair Drywall Tape That Is Separating From the Wall on the Inside Corner

Once upon a time, the drywall tape commonly used in wall construction was strips of paper that were laid onto the wall and plastered over. Over time, moisture and air may pass through the drywall seams on an inside corner and get caught underneath sections of the drywall tape. When this happens, the tape bubbles and begins to separate from the wall. This common problem is easy to fix by removing and replacing the drywall tape with self-adhesive drywall tape that's sure to stay in place.

Utility knife
Drywall sanding screen
Tack cloth
Self-adhesive drywall tape
Scissors
Joint compound
Inside corner knife

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the compromised section of drywall tape. Score the four edges surrounding the separating section of the drywall tape with a utility knife to completely free it from the drywall and pull the tape free with your hands. If necessary, use the edge of your drywall knife to free the first edge.
- 2
  Sand the spot underneath the drywall tape with drywall sanding screen to remove any joint compound attached the drywall to create a flat, bump-free surface. Wipe the spot with a tack cloth to remove any sanding dust.
- 3
  Cut a new section of drywall tape down to size. Fold it in half lengthwise so that the non-sticky sides face each other. Apply the tape to the wall right where the old tape used to be. Press the tape down with your fingers to ensure good adhesion.
- 4
  Apply joint compound over the tape. Smooth it in place with the inside corner knife.

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