Mastering the Art of Joining Drywall at Outside Corners

Joining drywall at outside corners requires careful and precise work to achieve a clean and professional finish. This guide provides a step-by-step process to guide you through the entire process, from cutting the drywall to the final sanding and painting.

Materials Needed

Drywall sheets Drywall screws Corner bead - metal or plastic Drywall tape - paper or fiberglass mesh Utility knife Drywall saw T-square or straightedge Sanding sponge or block Putty knife

Steps to Join Drywall Outside Corners

Cut the Drywall

Measure and cut the drywall sheets to fit the wall, ensuring that the ends meet at the corner. Use a utility knife for straight cuts and a drywall saw for any openings.

Install Corner Bead

Attach corner bead to the outside corner. This can be metal or plastic. Align it with the edge of the drywall and secure it using drywall screws or adhesive. Make sure it’s straight and flush with the drywall surface.

Apply Joint Compound

Using a putty knife, apply a thin layer of joint compound over the corner bead. Feather the edges out onto the drywall surface to create a smooth transition.

Tape the Corner

While the joint compound is still wet, place drywall tape over the corner. For paper tape, embed it into the compound by pressing it down with the putty knife. For fiberglass mesh tape, place it directly over the corner and then cover it with more joint compound.

Add Additional Coats

Allow the first coat to dry completely (usually 24 hours). Apply additional coats of joint compound and feather each layer further out from the corner. Typically, two to three coats are needed for a smooth finish.

Sand the Joint

Once the final coat is dry, sand the joint lightly with a sanding sponge or block to smooth out any imperfections. Be careful not to sand too much as you want to maintain the corner’s shape.

Final Touches

After sanding, wipe down the area to remove dust. If necessary, apply a final thin coat of joint compound and sand again for a flawless finish.

Prime and Paint

Once you're satisfied with the surface, prime and paint the area to match the rest of the wall.

Tips for a Clean Finish

Safety First

Wear a mask and goggles while sanding to avoid inhaling dust. Protect your eyes from debris and dust that might irritate them.

Use a Level

Ensure the corner bead is perfectly vertical for a professional look. Using a level will ensure that your corner is straight and neat.

Practice Patience

Take your time with each coat of joint compound to avoid lumps and imperfections. Rushing the process can lead to a less-than-professional finish.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can achieve a clean and professional-looking outside corner finish on your drywall, enhancing the overall appearance of your space and contributing to a high-quality finish in your home or commercial project.