The History of Automatic Drywall Taping Tools

With all your experience, it makes sense to know all you can know about this tool to help make your job easier. Read up on the history of the automatic drywall taping tool and learn about this device that allows you to produce precise results.

Brief History

In 1939, brothers Bob and Stan Ames invented the taping tool in Georgia. They were painters and plasterers who came up with the first drywall taping tool known as the Corner Stone. The Corner Stone applied joint compound to seams using air pressure and a long hose.

The brothers started a production line of taping tools from this first invention that revolutionized the drywall industry. In 1945, the brothers invented the precursor of today’s Bazooka (automatic taper). By 1951, Bob Ames had created the first drywall boxes, nail spotters, and the automatic taper.

The automatic taper applies compound and tape to the seams and corners all in one motion. The brothers sold their company in 1962 to an Illinois-based industry that renamed it Axia Incorporated in 1982.

Evolution of Taping Tool

The standard way contractors applied their drywall was with a hawk and trowel (pan) and knife method. To tape the seams, you would use a tube full of joint compound with paper tape attached to apply both products in one motion. Naturally, this method demanded more from the contractor physically.

The next generation of drywall finishing tools that was introduced focused on being pneumatic (air) driven. These tools used compressed air to push the joint compound to the drywall. Ultimately, this method decreased the physical strain on the user’s body.

The continuous flow system was the drywall finishing tool invention that came onto the scene next. With its airless system, the finisher takes the joint compound from the bucket to the wall without going back to the pump to fill it up. This method allows the contractor to complete the application with less effort and increases efficiency.

Benefits of Taping Tool

The evolution of finishing tools over the years has undoubtedly made the job of a drywall contractor easier. At Timothy’s Toolbox, we have a selection of TapeTech taping tools, including finishing boxes, knives, and automatic tapers.

All these products make the job of the finisher more efficient. The benefits of the automatic drywall taping tool go beyond reducing the physical strain on the user’s body.

• The tool gives you the right amount of compound to use.
• The device reduces the use of ladders and prevents fewer accidents.
• The tool applies the compound and tape to a joint at the same time, making the application more efficient.

This brief history lesson about automatic drywall taping tools should increase your affection for your instrument. It has gone through some exciting development stages to make your job easier. For more information on our tools and supplies, visit our website.