What's the Difference: Drywall Corner Beads
Different types of durability and installation methods set each option for corner beads apart from one another
Metal, vinyl, or paper-faced?
A properly finished outside drywall corner owes its smooth finish and clean, straight line to the installation of a corner bead followed by several coats of compound. Galvanized-metal corner beads used to be the standard, but today, other beads also are available. Regardless of type, the main purpose of the bead is to establish a straight line that defines the corner and guides the application of drywall compound.
Vinyl
• Can be attached with 1⁄2-in. staples, spray adhesive, or joint compound
• More resilient than metal bead; less susceptible to denting
• Eliminates threat of nail pops
• Price: 16¢ per ft.
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Paper-faced
• No fasteners required; installed with joint compound
• Paper face ensures smooth, clean joints
• Eliminates threat of nail pops
• Not susceptible to cracking
• Price: 23¢ per ft.
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Metal
• Installation over wood framing requires nails; metal framing requires a corner crimper, 9⁄16-in. staples, or drywall screws
• Susceptible to rust
• Provides excellent joint-compound adhesion
• Available with barbed edges for fast installation using only a rubber mallet
• Susceptible to cracks along flange edges
• Price: 18¢ per ft.
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