How to Fix Corner Bead: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tools and Materials

Key Takeaways

Remove loose joint compound and the damaged corner bead.
Repair any drywall damage.
Use straight-cut tin snips to cut a new corner bead to fit the repair.
Install the repair piece with nails, staples, joint compound or adhesive, based on the instructions for your corner bead type.
Apply successive coats of joint compound according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Sand, prime and paint the repair.
Wear work gloves when handling a metal corner bead and wear safety glasses and a respirator when sanding.

Steps for Fixing Drywall Corner Bead

Corner beads are typically metal, paper-faced metal or vinyl. We have tips for repairing each type below, but follow the steps for your corner bead and joint compound.

Step 1: Prepare the Area

Use a putty knife to remove loose joint compound around the damaged area.
Use a utility knife to cut around the damaged area.
For a small area of dents or damage, use a hacksaw to cut the corner bead on each side of the damage.
If the damage is extensive, remove the entire corner bead.
Score the compound over the corner bead with a utility knife.
Remove the nails, screws or staples and carefully pry the corner bead away.
Fix damaged drywall before beginning the corner bead repair.

Step 2: Cut the Repair Piece and Check the Fit

Purchase a corner bead to match the damaged piece.
Measure the section of the corner you need to cover.
If you’re installing a corner bead along the full height of a wall, subtract 1/2 inch from the measurement to allow good clearance from the ceiling and floor.
Mark and use straight-cut tin snips to cut the new corner bead to length.
Test the repair piece in place to ensure a good fit.

Caution

Wear work gloves when handling a metal corner bead.

Step 3: Secure the New Corner Bead to the Wall

Metal Corner Bead Repair

Align the repair piece so it’s level and plumb.
Drive drywall screws or drywall nails through the fastener holes on the corner bead.
Ensure the fastener heads are flush.

Vinyl Corner Bead Repair

Apply spray adhesive to the wall and the inside of the repair piece.
Align the repair piece so it’s level and plumb.
Press the corner bead firmly and evenly against the corner.
Apply staples every 6 to 8 inches to secure the corner bead to the wall.
Allow the adhesive to dry.

Paper-Faced Metal Corner Bead Repair

Apply a generous amount of all-purpose joint compound to the wall corner with a taping knife.
Align the corner bead so it’s level and plumb.
Press the repair piece evenly and firmly into the compound.
Remove any excess compound.
Staple the paper flanges to the wall if recommended by the manufacturer.
Allow the compound to dry overnight.

Step 4: Apply Joint Compound

Apply a coat of lightweight joint compound over the corner bead.
Feather the edges of the compound a couple of inches beyond the wall corner.
Allow the compound to dry overnight.
Apply a coat of all-purpose compound over the repair area, feathering the edges 5 to 6 inches out from the wall corner.
Allow the coat to dry fully overnight.
If additional coats of compound are necessary, apply them one at a time, feathering the edges beyond the previous coat and allowing each to dry fully.

Tip

Cool or humid conditions require longer drying times.

Step 5: Sand and Paint the Corner Bead Repair

Use 120-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the joint compound.
Remove the dust, then sand with 150-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.
Prime the repair area and allow it to dry.
Paint the repair, applying a second coat as recommended by the manufacturer.

Tip

Wear safety glasses and a respirator when sanding.

Protect Your Walls by Repairing Corner Bead

Improve the look of your walls and protect your drywall when you repair damaged corner bead. Shop Lowes.com for different types of corner bead to match the damaged piece and find the tools you need to make the repair. Stop by your local Lowe’s if you need help choosing a corner bead. A Red Vest Associate can show you the right type and make sure you have the best tools and materials for the project.

Repairing Corner Bead: FAQ

Use the answers to these common questions to understand the importance of corner bead and plan your repair project.

What's Corner Bead?

Corner bead is typically a piece of metal, paper-faced metal or vinyl that fits over the corner joints of drywall panels to protect the edges from damage.

Should I Patch the Corner Bead or Replace the Entire Corner Bead?

If the damaged area is small, you can use straight-cut tin snips to cut around the damaged area, and then install a piece of corner bead as a patch. If the corner bead is severely damaged along its length, it’s best to remove the damaged pieces and install a new one. Repair drywall damage before any corner bead repair. Install the new piece of corner bead with screws, staples, joint compound or adhesive, according to the instructions. Apply at least two coats of joint compound, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Can I Repair Dented Corner Bead?

You can patch small dented areas of corner bead. Cut around the damage and remove the section. Repair the damaged drywall, then cut a piece of corner bead to fit the repair area. Install with screws, staples, joint compound or adhesive, according to the instructions for your type of corner bead. Apply joint compound over the patch according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If the damage is extensive, replace the entire corner bead.

How Long Do I Let the Joint Compound on the Corner Bead Dry?

Allow the joint compound to dry 12 to 24 hours. Depending on the humidity and temperature, drying times might be longer. Check your joint compound application instructions for the recommended drying time for your product.

How to Repair Corner Bead on a Wall