Attaching Corner Guards: An Easy Diy Guide

how to attach plastic corner guards

Plastic corner guards are a versatile wall protection solution for commercial buildings, including hotels, offices, and educational facilities. They are inexpensive and can be installed at any point during a building's lifespan to protect walls from damage caused by objects such as luggage, carts, and wheelchairs. There are three main methods for attaching plastic corner guards: using construction adhesive (such as glue), double-sided tape, or screws/nails. Before installation, it is important to clean and prepare the wall surface, ensuring it is dry and free from dirt, dust, and grease. If cutting the corner guards to size, it is recommended to measure twice, cut once to ensure accuracy. Once the corner guards are securely attached, the protective PVC covering can be removed, leaving your walls protected.

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Clean the wall surface

To ensure that your plastic corner guards adhere properly to the wall, it is important to clean the wall surface thoroughly. This will ensure that any adhesive you use will stick to the wall.

First, check that the wall is dry. If there is any dust, plaster, or uneven marks around the holes, wipe the wall surface with a clean, dry, and lint-free cloth to remove any dirt, dust, oil, loose paint, wax, or grease. You can also use a paint-safe, residue-free degreaser like isopropyl alcohol to clean the wall surface and ensure it is free of grease. Make sure to wipe the wall dry after using any cleaning agents and let any residual air dry.

If you plan to use adhesive tape to attach the corner guards, it is important to note that if there is a significant raised texture on the wall, it will be difficult for the tape to stick and may fail. Therefore, ensure that the wall surface is smooth and clean before applying the tape.

Additionally, if you are using screws or nails to attach the corner guards, it is important to clean any dust or debris from the wall after drilling the holes to ensure a secure attachment.

By following these steps to clean the wall surface, you can ensure that your plastic corner guards will be properly adhered to the wall and provide effective protection.

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Measure and cut to size

When installing plastic corner guards, it is important to measure and cut them to the correct size. You may be able to order custom-sized corner guards, but if not, you can order a larger size and cut them down to size.

Before cutting, make sure to follow the "measure twice, cut once" rule, and mark all cuts with a pencil to ensure consistency. Use a miter saw or snips to cut the corner guards. If you are using adhesive or tape to attach the corner guards, you may want to cut them to length after installing them on the wall. This will ensure that you have the correct measurements and fit.

If you are using screws or nails to attach the corner guards, you will need to mark the screw or nail holes on the wall before cutting the corner guards to size. Place the corner guard on the wall at the desired location and mark each mounting hole with a pencil. Remove the guard and drill screw holes at each mark. If you are using nails, you will typically need three nails per side for every 4 feet of the corner guard.

It is important to prepare the wall surface by cleaning it before installing the corner guards. This will ensure that any adhesive or tape you use will stick properly. It is also a good idea to repair any damage to the wall before installing the corner guards, as this will help the guards adhere properly and make it easier to remove them in the future.

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Use glue or adhesive

Using glue or adhesive is a popular way to attach plastic corner guards to walls. Before you begin, ensure that the wall is clean, dry, and free of dirt, dust, oil, loose paint, wax, and grease. This will ensure that the adhesive sticks properly. It is also a good idea to repair any uneven parts of the wall to ensure the corner guard adheres properly.

If you need to, cut the corner guard to the appropriate length. To do this, mark where you need to cut with a pencil and use a miter saw or snips. Next, apply a 0.25-inch wide bead of adhesive to the back of each wing of the corner guard. Keep the adhesive closer to the centre of each wing to prevent it from seeping out when you press the guard onto the wall.

Once the adhesive is applied, align the corner guard with the wall, starting from the bottom, and gradually work your way up. Apply pressure to the corner guard to ensure proper adhesion. Wipe down any excess adhesive immediately before it cures. Consult the adhesive label for information on set time and cure time.

Hot glue is another option for adhering corner guards. First, ensure that the surface is clean and degreased. This will ensure that the corner guard stays on for a long time. If the glue ever fails, it is easy to remove and re-apply.

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Use tape

Using tape to attach plastic corner guards is a simple and effective method. It is one of the three main fastening options for installing corner guards, the other two being glue and screws/nails.

First, prepare the wall surface by cleaning it to ensure that dust, grease, or debris that could weaken the bond of the tape is removed. The wall surface should be dry and free of dirt, dust, oil, loose paint, wax, and grease.

Next, if needed, cut the corner guard to the required length. To do this, mark the cutting point and use a miter saw or snips.

Now, apply the tape to the corner guard. If using double-sided tape, start by sticking one side of the tape to the corner guard, and then remove the backing from one side, leaving the other side's backing in place.

Place the corner guard against the wall, ensuring that the taped side is even with the corner. Gradually press the corner guard onto the wall, working your way up or down, and apply pressure on both sides to ensure the tape adheres properly.

If you are using tape with a clear film, remove the film, and then hold the corner guard against the wall and nail it in. Use three nails per side for a 4-foot corner guard.

If your corner guard does not come with tape, or you are applying it to a textured or difficult surface, you may need to use a heavy-duty adhesive instead of tape.

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Screw or nail into the wall

Screwing or nailing plastic corner guards into the wall is one of the most popular ways to attach them. This method provides a stronger hold compared to using glue or double-sided tape. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Prepare the Wall and Corner Guard

Firstly, ensure that the wall is clean, dry, and free of dirt, dust, oil, loose paint, wax, and grease. This step is crucial for achieving a secure attachment. You can use a paint-safe, residue-free degreaser like isopropyl and wipe the surface dry with a clean, lint-free rag.

Before proceeding, double-check the height measurements and fit of the corner guard. If needed, cut the corner guard to the desired length using appropriate tools like a miter saw or snips. Mark the cutting points with a pencil to ensure accuracy.

Mark and Drill Screw Holes

Place the corner guard on the wall at the desired location. Use a pencil to mark the wall through each mounting hole. Remove the corner guard, and drill screw holes at each mark. Make sure to use the appropriate drill bit size and type for your wall surface.

Attach the Corner Guard

Now, place the corner guard back against the wall, aligning it with the pre-drilled holes. Use the supplied screws and a screwdriver or power drill to attach the corner guard securely to the wall. Depending on your wall substrate, you may need to consider using anchors or toggles to assist in fastening.

Final Touches

After installing the corner guard, remove any protective covering, such as a clear film, that may be present. Wipe down the wall to remove any dust or plaster residue. If you used glue or adhesive during the installation, remember to wipe away any excess before it cures.

By following these steps, you can securely attach plastic corner guards to your walls using screws or nails, providing a strong and durable solution to protect your walls from damage.

Frequently asked questions

There are three main ways to attach plastic corner guards: using glue, double-sided tape, or screws. Nails can also be used, especially for clear corner guards.

First, ensure the wall surface is clean and dry. Then, apply glue to the corner guard using a wave motion, keeping the glue closer to the centre than the end. Finally, press the corner guard onto the wall, starting from the bottom and applying pressure on both sides.

First, clean the wall surface. Then, stick one side of the tape to the corner guard. Take the backing off one strip of tape, and only remove a couple of inches off the bottom of the other strip, leaving the rest in place. Finally, place the corner guard against the wall, ensuring the taped side is in place, and peel off the remaining backing.

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