Finish corners like the pros.
Drywall is the standard choice of wall sheathing in most modern homes. From hanging to spackling, there are a handful of customary techniques practiced by professionals in the drywall industry. Among these are ways of finishing corners, including outside, inside, rounded and arched corners. Mudding and taping corners is sometimes awkward as crumbled edges and tape bubbles are more problematic than when finishing flat joints. But with knowledge of standard drywall practices, the beginner can finish corners with confidence and precision.
Outside Corners
Drywall, which is made of gypsum plaster, is brittle. Protect protruding, outside corners from being smashed by using metal corner bead. Cut the corner bead to fit the length, and affix it to the corner with drywall nails or screws. Dimple the nails or screws so they will not protrude through the drywall mud. Apply a liberal layer of drywall mud to the corner with a putty knife. Smooth the mud down as much as possible, and leave it to dry. Once dry, sand the imperfections and apply a second coat of mud.
Inside Corners
Corner bead is not necessary for inside corners as they are inverted and not vulnerable to being run into or knocked. Apply drywall mud to the corner with a wet putty knife. Cut and fold a length of drywall tape to fit. Fold the tape down the middle vertically so it will fit into the corner. Wet the tape, and carefully press it into the corner by hand. Smooth it down making sure all bubbles are pressed out, using the putty knife. Apply another layer of mud over the tape. Leave the mud to dry, sand and apply another coat.
Rounded Corners
Metal corner bead is available for straight corners with a rounded edge as well as for arching corners. The corner bead for straight corners with a rounded edge is just like traditional, 90-degree corner bead except the corner is bull nosed. Install rounded-edge corner bead the same way as traditional corner bead. Corner bead for arching corners is slightly different. Instead of being a solid piece, the sides consist of small, incremental flaps that provide flexibility. Bend the bead to fit the arc of the corner. Nail or screw it in place, and apply mud on top.
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