I've recently been introduced to drywall repair methods that depend on substrates such as tape and metallic mesh. One technique I've seen for the mesh was to score (i.e., make a surface cut with a utility knife) the drywall around the area and rip off a layer of paper and paint, with the goal of making an indention that can be filled flush with joint compound. Makes sense.
Now, for drywall tape alone, I've seen a few videos on YouTube where they don't make a recess on the drywall. I guess the drywall repair tape is pretty thin. Also, a friend told me that drywall gets most of its structural strength from the paper and that ripping it is not a good idea.
So my question is, if you're just using paper tape to fix a drywall problem, should you create an indention by scoring, or just use the tape alone?
Best Answer
It is best not to damage the drywall skin in any way. Even when you are securing the panel with fasteners you should only be dimpling the paper and not puncturing the surface. Drywall tape, fiberglass or paper, is applied to seams because they increase the strength of the joint compound and decreases the chance of the joint splitting or cracking if there is any movement in the framing. I would guess the video you viewed may have been one showing how to speed installation. Most tape jobs you will apply a minimum of two layers of compound (if you are good), but three is the norm. The idea is to progressively feather the next coat so as to make the slightly proud taped joint less noticeable. Quality jobs don't take shortcuts.