How to Fix Blisters in Drywall Tape: 3 Easy Methods!

If you’ve ever worked on a drywall project, you know how frustrating it can be when blisters appear in the tape. Blisters can make your walls look bad and ruin a job you worked hard on. But don’t worry! Fixing blisters in drywall tape is easy. In this article, we’ll go over three simple methods to get your drywall looking great again. Let’s dive in!

What Are Blisters in Drywall Tape?

Before we jump into the solutions, let’s understand what we’re dealing with. Blisters in drywall tape occur when air gets trapped between the tape and the drywall. This can happen for a few reasons:

1. Poor Adhesion: If the tape didn’t stick well to the mud or drywall, blisters can form.
2. Too Much Moisture: If the joint compound is too wet when you apply the tape, it can cause problems.
3. Temperature Changes: Rapid changes in temperature can affect the tape’s adhesion.

Now that we know what blisters are, let’s learn how to fix blisters in drywall tape!

Method 1: Patching Blisters with Joint Compound

This first method is simple and effective. Here’s what you need to do:

Materials Needed

• Joint compound
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper
• Primer and paint (optional)

Steps to Follow

1. Identify the Blister: Look for any bubbles or raised areas in the tape. These are the blisters you want to fix.
2. Cut Out the Blister: Use a utility knife to carefully cut around the blister. Be gentle so you don’t damage the surrounding area.
3. Remove the Damaged Tape: Pull away the old tape from the wall. Make sure you get rid of any loose pieces.
4. Apply Joint Compound: Use a putty knife to spread joint compound over the area. Make sure to cover the edges of the tape and blend it into the wall.
5. Smooth It Out: Feather the edges of the compound to make it smooth. This will help it blend in with the wall.
6. Let It Dry: Allow the joint compound to dry completely. This usually takes about 24 hours.
7. Sand the Area: Once dry, use sandpaper to smooth the surface. This helps it blend in with the rest of the wall.
8. Prime and Paint: If needed, apply primer and then paint over the area. This will give it a fresh look!

This method works well for small areas and can bring your drywall back to life.

Method 2: Re-Taping with New Tape

If the blister is large or the tape is too damaged, you may need to re-tape the area. Here’s how to do it:

Materials Needed

• New drywall tape (mesh or paper)
• Joint compound
• Putty knife
• Utility knife
• Sandpaper
• Primer and paint (optional)

Steps to Follow

1. Cut Out the Damaged Area: Use the utility knife to cut around the blister. Remove the old tape and any damaged joint compound.
2. Prepare the Surface: Make sure the surface is clean and free of dust. This helps the new tape stick better.
3. Apply Joint Compound: Spread a thin layer of joint compound where the new tape will go. This will help it stick.
4. Place the New Tape: Press the new drywall tape into the wet compound. Use a putty knife to smooth it down.
5. Cover the Tape: Add another layer of joint compound over the tape. Make sure to feather the edges.
6. Let It Dry: Allow the compound to dry completely.
7. Sand the Area: Once dry, sand the area until it is smooth.
8. Prime and Paint: Apply primer and then paint as needed.

Re-taping is a great solution for larger blisters or damage that can’t be repaired with just joint compound.

Method 3: Using a Drywall Repair Patch

If you have a really big blister or damage, a drywall repair patch might be the best option. Here’s how to use one:

Materials Needed

• Drywall repair patch
• Joint compound
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper
• Primer and paint (optional)

Steps to Follow

1. Cut Out the Damaged Area: Use the utility knife to remove the blister and any damaged tape.
2. Prepare the Surface: Clean the edges and make sure the area is smooth.
3. Apply the Repair Patch: Place the drywall repair patch over the damaged area. Press it firmly so it sticks.
4. Spread Joint Compound: Use a putty knife to cover the edges of the patch with joint compound. Feather the edges for a smooth finish.
5. Let It Dry: Allow the compound to dry completely.
6. Sand the Area: Sand the dried compound to make it smooth and flush with the wall.
7. Prime and Paint: If needed, apply primer and paint over the area.

Using a repair patch is a strong solution for fixing large damage areas, ensuring your wall looks great again.

Conclusion

Fixing blisters in drywall tape is a task you can do yourself. Whether you choose to patch, re-tape, or use a repair patch, the methods are easy to follow. Remember to take your time and be careful with your cuts and application. Soon, your walls will look as good as new!

If you’re still unsure or need more help, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Eagleriver Painters, we are here to assist you with all your drywall and painting needs. Contact us today!