Omar Khalid
Plastic corner beads are typically made from vinyl and can be attached to drywall in several ways, including spray adhesive, staples, or a combination of both. The standard method, used by 99 out of 100 professionals, is to apply spray adhesive to the drywall and the bead before pressing the bead into place with a tool or taping knife. Staples can also be used in conjunction with adhesive to prevent the bead from shifting while the glue dries. Another method is to use a mud set, where mud is applied to the corner with a hopper, knife, or compound applicator tube, and the bead is pressed into place with a roller tool or taping knife.
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What You'll Learn
Using spray adhesive
When using spray adhesive to apply plastic corner bead, there are several steps to follow. Firstly, measure and cut the pieces to size using tin snips, and cut the ends of the pieces that meet on angles so that they fit together neatly. The standard way to attach plastic corner bead is with spray adhesive, and this can be done by spraying the adhesive onto both sides of the corner, keeping the can at least 6 inches from the surface. Spray adhesive is a very thin, high-tack contact cement, and it is important to keep the spray moving to avoid buildup.
Apply more adhesive to the inside of the corner bead, and then position the bead in place, applying pressure to both sides with a spackling knife where the bead meets the wall. Ensure that the bead is straight and firmly attached. You can then finish by stapling every 6 to 8 inches, although some sources suggest that stapling is not necessary if enough adhesive has been used. Allow the adhesive to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before proceeding with any further steps.
It is worth noting that some people choose to avoid using spray adhesive due to concerns about the smell and the potential for the adhesive to get on unwanted surfaces. However, it is a highly effective method that minimises slipping during expansion and provides a strong bond between the corner bead and the drywall.
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Using staples
While spray adhesive is the standard way to attach plastic corner beads, staples can also be used, especially in conjunction with adhesive. Staples alone are not recommended as the plastic corner bead will be prone to cracking and separation.
When using staples, it is important to use a staple gun or pneumatic stapler. Crown staples are recommended, and you should ensure they are long enough—around 1.5 inches is recommended. Stainless steel or galvanised staples are also recommended to prevent rusting.
The staples are used to keep the bead in place while the adhesive dries. If you are using staples without adhesive, you will need to use a roller to ensure the bead is flush with the wall.
To use staples with adhesive, first, apply the adhesive to the drywall and the bead. Then, position the bead in place, pressing it firmly with a pressure tool or taping knife handle. Finally, staple the bead in place every 6 to 8 inches.
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Using a combination of spray adhesive and staples
When installing plastic corner beads, one popular method is to use a combination of spray adhesive and staples. This technique is highly effective, easy to master, and has stood the test of time. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Preparation:
First, measure and cut the corner bead to the required length, using a tool like tin snips. Cut the ends of the pieces on angles where they meet, and test the fit before applying any adhesive.
Applying Adhesive:
Spray adhesive is designed to bond the surface of the bead directly to the drywall. It is recommended to use a product specifically made for this purpose, such as Trim-Tex's 847 Spray Adhesive. Hold the can at least 6 inches away from the surface and spray both sides of the corner and the inside of the corner bead. Be sure to keep the spray moving to avoid buildup, and don't over-saturate as this will increase the wait time for the adhesive to become tacky.
Positioning the Bead:
After applying the adhesive, quickly position the corner bead in place, ensuring it is straight and firmly attached to the wall. You can use a pressure tool or the handle of a taping knife to press the bead into place.
Stapling:
To further secure the corner bead, staples are added. Use staples that are at least 1 inch long, and space them 6 to 8 inches apart along the mud leg of the bead. This combination of staples and adhesive provides a strong bond, reducing the chances of cracking or separation.
Finishing:
Finally, cover the corner bead and staples with a joint compound or drywall mud, spreading it evenly until the bead is no longer visible. Allow the compound to dry, then sand the area with medium-grade sandpaper, smoothing it out with circular motions.
This method of using spray adhesive and staples is a standard practice for installing plastic corner beads, providing a durable and long-lasting solution.
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Using a mud set
Mud Set Beads are drywall corner beads made from high-impact, rigid vinyl. They are known for providing the strongest-possible bond to the drywall of any corner bead on the market. The strength of the bond between the mud legs, drywall compound, and wall, combined with the elasticity properties of rigid vinyl, allows the bead to withstand a high degree of impact.
To install a Mud Set Bead, you can use a 4-in-1 Mud Hopper, or apply the mud onto the corner directly using a knife or compound applicator tube. Make sure to apply a generous amount of mud on both sides of the corner, ensuring there are no dry spots. Once the mud is applied, press the bead into place with a roller tool or the end of a taping knife. Excess mud will squeeze through the perforations, levelling out the bead and minimizing the amount of mud needed for the setting coat.
After applying the bead, check for squareness and adjust as needed. Then, remove the excess mud and apply the fill coat. The Mud Set method is time-efficient as it allows the fill coat to be applied on the same day.
For the mud itself, you can use a pre-mixed compound, or mix the mud with a little water beforehand. You can also use a setting-type joint compound, also called mud, for the first coat. This provides a durable finish, whereas a ready-mixed compound can be prone to shrinking and is better suited for the second and finish coats.
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Using a knife or compound applicator tube
When installing plastic corner beads, you can use a knife or compound applicator tube to apply mud directly to the drywall. This method can be used with vinyl corner beads as well.
First, apply a light coat of 847 spray adhesive to both the corner bead and the drywall. You can also use contact cement instead of spray adhesive, but this may be messier and take longer to apply. Once the adhesive becomes tacky, position the bead and use a taping knife to press it into place, ensuring proper alignment and straight lines.
Next, use a knife or a compound applicator tube to apply mud directly to the corner. You can use a 4-in-1 Mud Hopper to apply the mud, or a 42" compound tube that attaches directly to a corner applicator. After applying the mud, use a roller tool or the end of a taping knife to press the bead into place. Excess mud will squeeze through the perforations, levelling out the bead and minimizing the amount of mud needed for the setting coat.
Finally, apply your fill coat. Wipe away any excess mud and ensure the bead is level and secure before proceeding.
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Frequently asked questions
The standard way to attach plastic corner beads is with spray adhesive. You can also use staples, but this is not recommended as the sole method of application.
Spray adhesive continuously from a distance of 6 to 10 inches, ensuring that the spray is moving to avoid buildup. Then, apply pressure to the corner bead with a pressure tool or taping knife.
Staples are used in conjunction with adhesive to keep the bead in place while the glue dries. It is recommended to staple every six to eight inches.
Yes, another method is to use a mud set. Apply mud directly to the corner with a knife or compound applicator tube, then press the bead into place with a roller tool or taping knife.
