Galvanised Beads

Galvanised beads are metal strips or angles coated with zinc to prevent rust. These metal skim beads create neat, straight edges and protect corners when plastering walls.

What Are Galvanised Plaster Beads?

Galvanised plaster beads are small, tough-edged guides that give plaster a tidy, sharp-looking edge every time. Made from steel coated in zinc (that is the “galvanised” part), these beads can resist occasional humidity but are suitable only for interior plastering applications.

These plaster galvanised beads serve as both a guide and a shield. They are added along edges, corners, and openings, forming a line for plaster to follow. As plaster spreads into position along this line, it stays firm and even along edges.

What Is Galvanised Bead Used For?

Here is how to use galvanised plaster beads in buildings:

• Internal wall corners – Used to protect internal wall corners.
• Window and door openings – Give neat, straight lines.
• Partition walls – Keep internal corners neat and level.
• High-traffic areas – Stop interior corners from getting damaged.
• Skirting and dado levels – Used around skirting and dado levels to achieve clean termination lines.

Types Of Galvanised Plasterboard Bead

Each type of galvanised plaster bead protects different parts of the wall, especially when applying skim coats with galvanised skim beads. Here’s a simple guide to the different types:

1. Galvanised Corner Beads

The corner bead, or galvanised angle bead, is an L-shaped strip that fits over outside corners. It is installed at the point where two walls meet – like the edges of a room or corners of a building. They help maintain straight plaster lines and shield corners to prevent damage from knocks and daily wear.

2. Galvanised Stop Beads (End Beads)

The galvanised stop bead is supplied as a perforated straight strip. It has a flange on one side that marks the end of a plaster run. This type is fitted around windows, doors, and wall edges. They stop plaster from spreading too far and give a tidy, level finish.

3. Galvanised Expansion / Movement Beads

These are flexible beads that allow plaster to expand and contract slightly, allowing it to move safely and preventing cracks. They are fitted to large interior walls, high ceilings, or anywhere where temperature changes can cause internal walls to shift slightly.

Benefits Of Galvanised Beads For Plaster

Here’s why it is important to use galvanised beads when plastering:

• Protect interior wall corners from chips and impact damage.
• Ensure sharp, clean plastered edges.
• Make plastering faster and easier.
• Suitable for diverse internal plastering jobs.
• Rust-resistant zinc coating supports long-lasting performance.

Why Choose Our Plaster Beads?

Here’s why customers across the UK choose plaster galvanised beads from Insulation Wholesale:

• Choosing our plaster beads ensures you receive reliable quality at best prices.
• We supply beads from renowned, trade-reliable brands such as Alpha Drywall Systems and Libra, so you know every length is straight, strong, and built to last.
• You can order single lengths or bulk quantities.
• Save even more with our low pricing and volume discounts.
• Buying galvanised plaster beads online is fast and simple.
• You can also access support from our team of insulation experts.

FAQ

Where to buy galvanised beads?

Purchase galvanised beads for plaster online directly from Insulation Wholesale. We supply a full range of beads for corners, edges, thin-coat systems, and general plastering work. We provide UK stock at low prices and offer fast nationwide delivery.

How to use galvanised thin coat beads

1. 1. Get the wall ready: Clean it and let it dry.
   2. Cut the bead: Measure the corner or edge and use tin snips to trim the bead to size. For longer runs, let the ends overlap slightly to create a continuous straight line.
   3. Fix it in place: Pop the bead into the corner or along the edge. Press it flush with the wall. Use adhesive, mortar, or screws depending on your plaster system.
   4. Plaster over it: Spread your thin-coat plaster or basecoat over both the wall surface and the bead. Run your trowel along the bead. The plaster should lock onto the bead slightly.
   5. Smooth and check: Smooth out any bumps and let the plaster cure properly.

Note: Always double-check that beads are straight. Overlap beads slightly on long runs to avoid weak spots and gaps.

How to install galvanised plaster beads

1. Prep the wall
2. Take your measurements
3. Cut the bead to size
4. Place the bead
5. Fasten it with screws, plaster adhesive, or mortar
6. Apply plaster.
7. Check for smoothness, let it cure, and finish

Make sure beads are straight – they guide your whole finish – and overlap beads on long walls to avoid gaps or weak spots.

Galvanised beads are generally not recommended for exterior render; stainless steel or uPVC should be used.