What is it used for
Wall Finishing: Beading is used to create smooth, finished edges on plasterboard installations and to cover joints or gaps.
Ceiling Decoration: Applied to create decorative moldings and enhance the appearance of ceilings.
Window and Door Frames: Provides a neat finish around windows and doors, hiding gaps and improving aesthetics.
Dimensions
Length: Typically 2.4 meters or 3 meters
Width: Varies by type (e.g., 10 mm for thin coat angle bead, 13 mm for standard)
Height: Not applicable (profile varies by type)
Volume: Not applicable (linear product)
Weight: Approximately 0.5 kg per 2.4 meter length
Colour: Typically metallic (galvanized steel) or white (PVC)
What it’s Made From
Aluminium
A lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal often used for its strength and durability.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
A type of plastic that is durable, lightweight, and easy to shape, making it ideal for creating beading profiles.
Steel
Used for its strength and rigidity, often coated or galvanized to prevent rust and increase longevity.
Plastic
Includes various polymers like polystyrene or polyethylene, chosen for their ease of molding and resistance to moisture.
Variations
PVC Beading
Description: Versatile and lightweight, resistant to moisture and corrosion. Applications: Used in plastering and rendering to create sharp edges and for corner protection.
Aluminium Beading
Description: Durable and rust-resistant, with a sleek finish. Applications: Ideal for drywall installations, tiling, and external rendering to protect edges and corners.
Galvanized Steel Beading
Description: Exceptionally strong and rust-resistant. Applications: Suitable for exterior applications and industrial settings, reinforcing edges and corners in plastering and concrete work.
Installation
Tools Required:
Trowel | Spirit level | Saw | Measuring tape | Utility knife
Materials Required:
Beading | Adhesive or nails | Plaster mix (if applicable) | Sandpaper
Step-by-Step Guide:
Preparation: Measure and cut the beading to the required length.
Apply Adhesive: Use appropriate adhesive for the material (plastic, metal, or wood).
Position Beading: Place the beading along the edge, ensuring it is straight and aligned.
Fix in Place: Secure the beading with nails or screws if required, ensuring it is firmly attached.
Finish Joints: Apply a thin layer of plaster over the joints and smooth it out.
Sand and Paint: Once dry, sand the area for a smooth finish and apply paint if necessary.
Technical Specification
Flexibility: High for plastic beading, moderate for metal, low for wood.
Durability: Metal beading is highly durable; plastic offers good durability and resistance to moisture.
Ease of Installation: Plastic and wood are generally easier to cut and install compared to metal.
Certification
British Standard (BS EN 13964): Ensures quality for suspended ceilings and associated products.
ISO 9001: Certification for quality management systems, ensuring high production standards.
Purchasing Quantities
Single Units
Ideal for small projects, repairs, or when only a few lengths are needed.
Bundles
Smaller quantities than pallets, often sold in bundles of 10, 20, or 50 lengths, suitable for minor projects or additions.
Pallets
Typically sold in bulk, with each pallet containing around 200 to 500 lengths. This option is suitable for medium to large construction projects.
Environmental Impact
Sustainability: Wood beading is sustainable if sourced from certified forests. Plastic can be recycled but is less environmentally friendly than wood.
Alternative Options: Eco-friendly options include recycled plastic beading or sustainably sourced wood.