Had to choose between tapered and square edge for my own basement job

I was finishing my own basement last month and kept going back and forth on whether to use tapered edge or square edge drywall for the ceiling. Tapered edge is what I usually do on walls for that smooth joint compound look, but square edge seemed easier for a DIY ceiling where I didn't want to mess with compound buildup. I ended up going with tapered edge because I figured the extra time mudding would pay off in the long run. Man, I was right... getting those butt joints to lay flat took some patience but the final ceiling looks seamless. My buddy who helped me said he wished he'd done the same in his place. Anyone else ever debate this on a personal project and regret their pick?

2 comments

2 Comments

hollym1228d ago

I went square edge on my ceiling and never looked back, way less mess for a DIY job.

butler.shane28d ago

Did you read that article Fine Homebuilding did last year about it? They tested both and the square edge actually scored way better for DIY dust control because you aren't fighting those beveled corners with mud. I switched over on my last basement job and it saved me a full day of sanding. The dust was cut in half at least, maybe more. Plus I don't miss having to scrape those little ridge lines out of the bevels before taping.