When you’re doing a drywall repair job or finishing a new wall, bubbles in the tape can be frustrating. They can appear during the first coat, after the second coat, or even later if the repair wasn’t done correctly. If you’ve been struggling to understand why drywall tape bubbles happen or how to fix them, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Let's explain this annoying occurrence.

What Causes Bubbles on Drywall Tape?

Drywall tape bubbles are usually caused by poor adhesion or trapped air bubbles. If the tape doesn’t properly stick during the first coat of drywall compound (or “mud”), air bubbles can form underneath. Here are the main reasons this might happen:

  • Not enough joint compound: If there isn’t sufficient compound under the strip of tape, it won’t stick properly.
  • Poor installation: If the mud isn’t applied evenly, parts of the joint tape may not adhere in the drywall seam.
  • Using too much compound: Excess mud can make it hard to press the taping knife down firmly, leaving gaps under the joint tape.
  • Dry or dusty surfaces: If the wall wasn’t cleaned or prepped before applying the piece of tape, the coating of compound may not bond properly.
  • Old or damaged pieces of tape: Tape that’s brittle or worn can lift and bubble more easily.

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How to Fix Bubbles in Drywall Tape

Fixing bubbles in drywall mud isn’t as difficult as it might seem. The key is to work carefully and avoid applying too much compound at once:

  1. Cut out the bubble: Use a sharp utility knife to gently cut out the section of tape with the air bubble. Be careful not to damage the surface underneath.
  2. Sand the area: Smooth the edges of the surrounding tape and compound with fine-grit sandpaper. This will help the repair blend in better.
  3. Re-apply compound: Spread a thin, even layer of compound over the area where the bubble was removed. Make sure to feather the edges so it blends seamlessly with the surrounding surface.
  4. Add new tape: Lay a fresh piece of drywall tape over the wet compound. Press it down firmly using a drywall knife or taping tool to eliminate air pockets.
  5. Apply additional coats: Once the first coat dries, use a wide knife to apply two or three more thin coats of compound over the taping job feathering out further and further. Let each coat dry completely before sanding lightly and adding the next one.
  6. Prime and paint: Always prime the repair before a coat of paint. They're porous surfaces and will make the repair more noticeable because the paint job won't match the rest of the wall.
Interior construction zone with drywall mudded with joint compound.
Inspect for bubbles before you prime and paint newly drywalled surfaces. Credit: Photo by Cory Woodward on Unsplash

How to Prevent Drywall Tape from Bubbling

Prevention of bubbles starts with proper preparation, technique, and personal experience. Taking your time and paying attention to these details will help you avoid the frustration of bubbles later on. Follow these tips to avoid bubbles in your drywall tape:

  • Clean the surface: Always wipe down the drywall with a damp cloth to remove dust before applying compound.
  • Use the right amount of compound: Spread a thin, even layer of mud under the tape. You want enough bed coat to create good adhesion, but not so much that it’s hard to press the tape down.
  • Work out air pockets: Use a drywall knife to firmly press the tape into the compound, smoothing from the center outward to push out trapped air.
  • Avoid overloading the tape: Apply thin, even coats of drywall compound over the tape rather than one thick layer.
  • Use decent materials: This isn't the time to cut corners. High-quality joint compound and drywall tape can make a big difference in preventing bubbles.

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FAQ

Can I fix tape bubbles without cutting them out?

If the bubble is very small and flat, you might be able to fix it by poking a pinhole into the bubble and pressing it down while applying more compound. For larger or raised bubbles, cutting out the surface imperfection is usually the best solution.

Should I use mesh tape or paper tape to avoid bubbles?

Both fiberglass mesh tape and paper tape can work well when applied correctly, but paper tape is less likely to bubble if you’re using a setting-type joint compound. Mesh tape is self-adhesive, which makes it easier to work with, but it can be more prone to bubbles if the compound isn’t applied evenly.