Has anyone out there ever use STRAIGHT FLEX(orange code) tape for taping joints? What I wnat to know are the pros ,cons, and any tips on the methods of using this tape. thanks a bunch……..
THE JAMAR
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I've used StraightFlex. There are different thicknesses. I used one of the thinner ones. I used it in corners only. I don't think it has any advantages in taper joints and I wouldn't use it for a butt joint because it's thicker for regular tape.
For corners, it works great. It creases nicely so you get a nice 90° corner (it's designed to crease one way only, so pay attention to that). It's very tough so there's zero chance of accidentally cutting it with your taping knife and that also helps to get a nice corner. Because it's just a tad thicker, it may require an additional coat to hide the edge. I was able to complete the corners with 3 coats, but with regular tape, I can usually do it in 2. But that's no big deal because I'm there spackling a 3rd coat on most of the other joints anyway.
The only downside is cost. I wouldn't do a whole house, but for 1 room, I think it does a nice job on inside corners.
Here's one more use for Straight Flex: Sometimes I have to repair holes that are too small for a drywall patch and too big for spackle. I remove the paper layer around the hole, cut a piece of Straight Flex to lay flush and spackle over. The Straight Flex is sturdy enough to span 1/2" hole easily.
-Don