Flawless Corners: Finish Drywall Outside Corners Like a Pro

Achieving flawless outside corners in drywall is a skill mastered through understanding proper techniques and utilizing the right corner bead. The effectiveness of finishing drywall outside corners often hinges on the installer’s experience with mudding tools, influencing the final product’s aesthetic quality. Construction projects undertaken by organizations like Habitat for Humanity frequently rely on the correct application of these methods to ensure durable and visually appealing results.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Vancouver Carpenter , from the video titled The EASIEST way to coat CORNER BEAD! .

Achieving Flawless Corners: A Guide to Finishing Drywall Outside Corners

This article provides a detailed guide to achieving professional-looking outside corners when finishing drywall. The primary focus is on effectively finishing drywall outside corners through proper preparation, application techniques, and sanding methods.

Preparation is Key: Setting the Stage for Success

Before you even touch your corner bead, meticulous preparation is crucial. This stage determines the overall quality and longevity of your finished corners.

Assessing the Corner: Identifying Imperfections

• Straightness Check: Use a long level or straight edge to determine if the corner is perfectly straight. Minor imperfections can be addressed during the mudding process, but severely bowed or uneven corners may require shimming the corner bead.
• Cleanliness: Ensure the drywall surface is clean and free of dust, debris, and loose paper. A quick wipe-down with a damp sponge is usually sufficient.
• Screw/Nail Protrusions: Inspect the entire area for protruding screws or nails. Tighten or sink any that are sticking out to avoid interference with the corner bead.

Selecting the Right Corner Bead: Options and Considerations

Choosing the correct type of corner bead depends on your desired level of durability, aesthetic preference, and skill level.

• Metal Corner Bead: The most common and affordable option. Offers excellent protection against impact damage. Can be attached with nails, screws, or staples.
• Paper-Faced Metal Corner Bead: Provides superior adhesion for the drywall compound. Minimizes cracking and chipping. Generally considered easier to work with than traditional metal bead.
• Vinyl Corner Bead: Resistant to rust and moisture. A good choice for bathrooms and other damp areas. Can be more flexible than metal.
• Bullnose Corner Bead: Creates a rounded corner, offering a softer, more contemporary look. Requires specialized techniques and tools.

Applying the Corner Bead: A Secure Foundation

The method of attachment depends on the type of corner bead you choose. Follow these general guidelines:

• Nailing/Screwing: Use drywall nails or screws spaced approximately 6-8 inches apart along both flanges of the corner bead. Ensure they are driven in straight and flush with the surface. Avoid overdriving, which can damage the bead.
• Clinching (for Metal Bead): Use a corner bead clincher tool to crimp the bead to the drywall. This creates a secure mechanical bond.
• Stapling: Utilize a heavy-duty staple gun with staples specifically designed for drywall. Place staples approximately 4-6 inches apart. Be careful not to damage the bead during stapling.
• Drywall Compound Adhesion (for Paper-Faced): Apply a generous amount of drywall compound to the drywall along the corner. Embed the bead into the mud, pressing firmly. Wipe away excess mud.

Mastering the Mud: Applying Drywall Compound for a Seamless Finish

This is where the skill of finishing drywall outside corners truly shines. The key is to apply thin, even coats of drywall compound, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

First Coat: Embedding and Building Up

• Purpose: To fully embed the corner bead and create a solid foundation for subsequent coats.
• Compound: Use a setting-type compound (also known as "hot mud") for the first coat. This type of compound hardens through a chemical reaction, providing a stronger and more durable bond.
• Application: Apply a generous amount of compound to both sides of the corner bead, using a 4-inch or 6-inch taping knife. Feather the edges of the compound out onto the drywall surface.
• Drying Time: Allow the compound to dry completely until it is hard and no longer feels damp. This may take several hours, depending on humidity and temperature.

Second Coat: Refining and Smoothing

• Purpose: To fill in any imperfections and create a smoother surface.
• Compound: Use a general-purpose or topping compound.
• Application: Apply a thinner coat of compound than the first coat, using a wider taping knife (8-inch or 10-inch). Feather the edges out further than before.
• Drying Time: Allow the compound to dry completely.

Third Coat (Optional): Achieving Perfection

• Purpose: To address any remaining imperfections and create a flawless finish.
• Compound: Use a topping compound.
• Application: Apply a very thin coat of compound, using a wide taping knife (10-inch or 12-inch). Focus on smoothing out any ridges or bumps.
• Drying Time: Allow the compound to dry completely.

Sanding for a Smooth Surface: The Final Touch

Sanding is essential for achieving a smooth, paintable surface. However, it’s important to sand carefully to avoid damaging the drywall paper or the corner bead.

Choosing the Right Sandpaper: Grit Selection

• Initial Sanding: Use a medium-grit sandpaper (120-grit to 150-grit) to remove any major imperfections and ridges.
• Final Sanding: Use a fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit) to smooth out the surface and prepare it for painting.

Sanding Techniques: Maintaining a Consistent Finish

• Sanding Block/Pole Sander: Use a sanding block or pole sander to maintain a consistent angle and pressure.
• Light Pressure: Apply light pressure to avoid damaging the drywall paper or the corner bead.
• Circular Motion: Use a circular motion to blend the compound into the surrounding drywall.
• Dust Control: Use a vacuum cleaner or damp cloth to remove dust frequently.

Inspection and Touch-Up: Addressing Remaining Imperfections

• Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect the sanded surface for any remaining imperfections, such as pinholes or ridges.
• Touch-Up: Apply a thin layer of topping compound to any imperfections and allow it to dry completely. Sand lightly.
• Repeat: Repeat the inspection and touch-up process until the surface is perfectly smooth and ready for painting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues: Resolving Problems

This section addresses some common issues encountered when finishing drywall outside corners and provides solutions for resolving them.

By following these steps and tips, you can achieve professional-looking outside corners that will enhance the overall appearance of your project.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive look at finishing drywall outside corners like a pro. Go get those corners looking sharp! We hope this helps you on your next project!