What is Tape and Float?

Tape and float is a drywall finishing technique where paper or fiberglass mesh tape is embedded in joint compound over seams between drywall panels, then additional coats of compound are feathered out and sanded smooth. The process typically involves three coats — tape coat, fill coat, and finish coat — followed by fine sanding. A properly taped and floated surface is invisible under paint, creating seamless walls and ceilings that look like a single continuous surface.