Plasterboard Beads
(6 Products)
Drylining beads are used in conjunction with plasterboard to reinforce drywall and plastering systems at corners or returns. They protect the edging at its weakest, most vulnerable point, keeping the edges sharp and reducing impact damage. Angle beads are used around windows, stairwells, support beams, and solid surfaces whilst edge beads are used where plasterboard meets doors, stone walls and different building materials. Check out our fantastic range of plasterboard beads for your next project.
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What Is Plasterboard Beading?
Plasterboard beading is sectional lengths of metal (such as galvanised steel), or plastic, with a centre line and two-wing profile. Their purpose is to fasten to two sheets of plasterboard, achieving a perfect joint.
Edge beads and angle beads offer many benefits when installing plasterboard, with the prime advantage being the smooth surface they create. Beads achieve this by reinforcing corners or edges, allowing for a professional finish.
Types of Plaster Beading
Angle Bead
Angle beads (or corner beads) streamline the drylining process by forming corners (so you don't have to manually create them) and providing a guide for depth when applying render.
The angle bead features a rigid spine which wraps itself around the apex of a corner, with its 'nose' producing smooth and "true" lines in the plaster finish.
Angle beads are used around:
- Window corners
- Stairwells
- Support beams
Edge Bead
Edge beads create a defined square edge for external render systems.
With a solid hooked corner and an edge with either mesh or perforated wings, their primary purpose is to reinforce plasterboard edges against different building materials, such as a wooden door frame, an exposed stone wall, or a suspended ceiling.
These can be up against:
- Window and door frames
- Soffits
- Copings
- Other claddings or building fabrics
To prevent water from entering, a silicone sealant is typically applied along the return or back edge of the edge bead.
Edge beads can also help you add design elements to your render, such as 'picture frames' or decorative feature panels.
Frequently Asked Plasterboard Beads Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Plasterboard Beading
What Tools Will I Need To Fit Angle Bead?
- Tin snips (or a similar tool to cut through the bead)
- Tape measure
- Scissors (to cut the scrim tape)
How To Cut Plaster Beading To Length
Mark all of the necessary measurements, then take your tin snips and cut in accordance with your markings. Cut inwards from both sides, leaving the centre intact. Bend the bead until it breaks.
Wearing gloves is essential for this job - especially when using tin snips. The edges that are left behind are incredibly sharp and can easily cut you, so protecting your hands is crucial.
What Kind Of Nails Do I Use For Corner Beads?
Corner beads are most commonly installed with staples [e.g.Arrow T50] of flat-headed clout nails. Drywall screws will either stick out too far or deform the bead due to the countersunk head.
How Do I Fix Angle Beads to Plasterboard?
The best way to secure angle beads when working with plasterboard is to use galvanised nails.
Are Corner Beads Necessary?
It is difficult to achieve a professional, smooth finish without beads; a corner bead is essential for corners, both on walls and soffits.
Not only does it protect the surface, but the slightly raised beaded edge acts as a screed while taping and prevents the corner from becoming damaged or crooked.
How Do I Install Edge Beads on Plasterboard Edges?
Edge beads differ from angle beads in that they should be applied to plasterboard before the panels are affixed to either a stud wall or solid wall.
You can use tin snips to custom cut them to size, as needed.
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