Types of Corner Bead

The metal is galvanized to prevent the corner bead from rusting and bleeding through the joint compound and paint.

Newer to the market is plastic, or PVC, based corner bead. It has a couple of advantages. First, unlike galvanized steel, it will never rust. Galvanized steel, if cracked or damaged can rust. Second, PVC corner bead is flexible and thus can more readily form to uneven corners due to warped lumber.

In regards to the types of corner bead there are a number of choices to choose from.

Standard L-shaped corner bead – As I’ve already mentioned this corner bead is the most common type. It is made from either galvanized steel or PVC and forms a 90o angle and measures 1-1/4” x 1-1/4”. Standard lengths are 8, 9 and 10 feet. Standard L-shaped corner bead with Paper Drywall Tape – This is very similar to the standard corner bead, however both edges have drywall tape attached to them to aid in attaching the corner bead to the walls.

To install this type of corner bead, all you need to do is apply joint compound to the corners, place the corner bead into the joint compound, and then set it with a drywall taping knife.

Bullnose corner bead – This is a corner bead type that has been gaining popularity as it softens corners. It is available in both PVC and galvanized steel and comes in 8 and 10 feet lengths. It measures ¾” x ¾”. Bullnose archway corner bead – This type of corner bead is ideal for archways and curved corners, as its outside edges are cut approximately every ½” to enable flexibility. It is available in PVC and measures ¾”. It is available in both 8 and 10 foot lengths. Standard archway corner bead – Again, similar to the Bullnose archway corner bead, it is cut approximately every ½” on its outside edges for flexibility.

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It is commonly used in archways, and door and window openings. It is available in PVC and comes in 8 foot lengths and measures 1-1/4” x 1-1/4”.

In addition to outside corner bead, inside corner bead is also available. Similar to the offerings of outside corner bead, inside corner bead is available in standard “L” shaped, archway, and adjustable forms.