Installing bullnose corner bead on inside corners can seem daunting, but it’s actually a straightforward process with the right materials and techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to install bullnose corner bead on inside corners like a pro.
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What is Bullnose Corner Bead?
Bullnose corner bead is a specialized trim product used to create rounded, smooth corners on drywall. It consists of a metal or plastic L-shaped flange with one side having a rounded, half-circle shaped nose. The nose side gets installed facing outwards on corners to create the decorative bullnose shape.
Bullnose corner beads are commonly used to finish inside corners on walls and ceilings in these locations:
- Living spaces – creates soft, stylish corners on walls
- Bathrooms – used when installing curbless showers
- Kitchens – often added to wall corners near counters for ease of cleaning
- Coffered ceilings – for finishing the inside corners where ceilings transition
- Columns or built-out decorative elements
The bullnose shape rounds out the corner for a smooth, finished look. It also protects corners from dings and bumps. Inside corners finished with bullnose corner beads are much more durable than those finished with just joint compound.
Advantages of Using Bullnose Inside Corners
There are several benefits to using bullnose corner beads on inside corners:
- Aesthetic appeal – the rounded bullnose shape looks more finished and upscale than a standard 90-degree corner.
- Increased durability – bullnose corners are more resistant to cracks, chips, and damage from bumps.
- Easier to clean – there are no sharp corners where dirt, grime, or soap scum can collect.
- Safer – bullnose corners pose less risk of injury from sharp 90-degree corners, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
- No special skills needed – bullnose corner beads are easy for DIYers to install.
Tools and Materials Needed
Installing bullnose corner bead requires just a few simple tools and materials:
- Bullnose corner bead in desired length
- Joint compound
- Joint compound taping knives (4-6″)
- Sandpaper
- Painters tape
- Utility knife
- Tin snips
- Miter box (optional)
- Caulk/silicone sealant
Bullnose Inside Corner Installation Steps
Follow these simple steps to achieve professional-looking results:
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Prepare the inside corner: Ensure the corner is clean and any debris or loose joint compound is removed. Also make sure the corner is 100% dry before installing the bullnose bead.
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Measure and cut: Measure the length you need and cut a piece of bullnose corner bead using utility shears or tin snips. Cut it longer than measured so you have extra length to work with. Use a miter box to cut neat 45-degree angles if needed.
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Apply tape: Apply painter’s tape along the edges on each wall where the bullnose corner bead will be installed. This helps prevent joint compound from getting on the walls.
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Add joint compound: Use a taping knife to apply a layer of joint compound to the backside of the bullnose corner bead. Apply enough to fully coat the back surface and fill in the mesh/perforations.
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Position: Carefully press the bullnose corner bead into position on the corner, with the rounded nose facing outward. The joint compound will help it adhere to the drywall. Ensure it sits flush and straight.
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Fill seams and holes: Apply more joint compound over the corner bead, using a taping knife to fill any gaps, seams, or screw holes and ensure good adhesion. Smooth to a uniform thickness.
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Remove excess: Once dry, use a taping knife to scrape away any excess dried joint compound so it’s flush with the rounded bullnose shape.
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Finish coats: Apply 1-2 more thin, smooth coats of joint compound over the entire corner bead, letting dry fully between coats. Sand lightly to smooth away any imperfections.
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Prime and paint: Once dry, remove painter’s tape. Prime and paint the corner bead to match your walls and ceiling for a seamless look.
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Seal: Use caulk or silicone sealant to seal along the top and bottom edges for a watertight joint. Allow to fully cure before painting.
Tips for Getting Great Results
Follow these tips and tricks to master bullnose bead inside corner installation:
- Take time to ensure the corner is straight, plumb, and properly prepped before starting.
- Consider using adhesive-backed bullnose for easier installation. No need to pre-fill the back side.
- Measure carefully and leave an extra 1-2 inches of corner bead at each end to make fitting easier.
- Use high-quality finishing tools to minimize imperfections.
- Apply thin coats of joint compound and allow ample drying time between applications.
- Lightly sand each coat to smooth away ridges and tool marks before the next application.
- Avoid oversanding, which can damage the corner edges.
- Finish the installation with a quality high-adhesion primer before painting.
Common Questions
What type of bullnose should I use?
For inside corners, a PVC or plastic bullnose is recommended as it’s more flexible and resilient. Avoid metal corner beads which can dent and aren’t great for tight bends.
Can I install bullnose over existing corner bead?
No, you’ll need to remove any existing corner beads first in order to install a bullnose. The surface also needs to be smooth.
Should I use adhesive or screws to secure it?
Adhesive-backed bullnose beads are the easiest to install on inside corners. Or, you can use joint compound to adhere it. Screws are not recommended and can create bumps under the finish.
How long does the installation take?
Once prepped, plan on spending 2-3 hours for a standard 8-10ft inside corner. Longer for larger projects. Most of the time will be waiting for joint compound coats to dry.
Can I use bullnose on outside corners?
Bullnose corner beads are only for inside corners, as they cannot bend adequately over an external 90-degree angle. Use a standard corner bead instead for outside corners.
Conclusion
Installing bullnose corner bead on inside corners doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right materials and techniques, you can achieve smooth, rounded corners that look professionally finished. Take your time, apply multiple thin coats of joint compound, and make sure each layer is fully dry for best results. Finishing with bullnose beads is a great way to add style to ordinary corners in any room.