How to Install Paper-Faced Metal Corner Bead

Paper-faced metal corner bead is less prone to cracking than standard metal corner bead, and it’s easy to install. Here’s how.

First, cut the corner bead to length using metal snips.

On corners that go down to the floor, the bead should sit 1/2 in. above the floor to prevent cracks from structural settling.

Where corner beads meet, cut back the flanges so they don’t overlap. This process is essentially the same as mitering trim to meet in a corner. Dry-fit to verify lengths and angles are correct.

To install, use a 4 or 6 in. taping knife and all-purpose drywall compound.

To apply the compound, hold the knife nearly flat, and use slight, consistent pressure to get an even coat. Apply compound to both sides of the corner in swaths slightly wider than the legs of the bead.

Then, position the bead, and use your fingers to set it in the compound and push the bead tight to the ceiling.

Then, follow up with the taping knife, applying gentle pressure to lightly set the edges of the paper into the compound.

Before moving on, use the taping knife as a straight edge to check that the bead is properly positioned. The corner of the bead should be proud of the wall on both sides, and there should be a slight gap visible between the edge of the knife and the wall. If there’s a gap on one side and not on the other, gently nudge the bead over with your fingers until you get the correct positioning.

Once the bead is in the right spot, use the knife to fully set the paper flanges. Hold the knife at a 45-degree angle as you swipe along the paper to set the bead, squeeze out extra compound, and remove air pockets.

If air pockets remain, simply lift the paper… apply more compound… and reset with the taping knife.

Once installed, allow the compound to dry before applying finish coats.