Rant: Flat taping vs. hand taping, which one is actually faster?

I've been doing drywall for about 8 years now and always swore by hand taping. Thought the flat box was just a gimmick for guys who couldn't get a clean coat. Then last month I had a big job in a new warehouse out near the highway, 40 foot walls everywhere. My partner convinced me to try his flat box on one section while I did the other by hand. I'll be honest, the flat box was way quicker on the long runs but I fought with it on the inside corners and around the doors. On the other hand my hand taping was more consistent overall but my wrist was killing me after 6 hours. What I'm wondering is if you guys stick to one method or switch it up depending on the room. Has anyone else found a big time difference on residential vs. commercial jobs?

2 comments

2 Comments

ryanh771mo ago

It's the same story with a lot of trades though. The right tool for one part of the job is the wrong one for another part, and trying to force it just makes things harder. Guys who only own a hammer see everything as a nail, but the best crews I know just grab whatever works for that specific wall. Knowing when to switch tools is the real skill, not being the best at one method.

victor_carr541mo ago

Flat taping eats on long walls but hand is king around doors and corners every time.