How to Create Bullnose Edging in an Archway

Creating bullnose edging in an archway is a beautiful detailing that will enhance the architectural effect of the space. Bullnose edging comes in primarily 2 forms, edge bead and rounded drywall edge. An edge bead will create a clean look with a more defined corner, whereas a rounded bullnose gives a softer smooth old-world style effect to the archway. You can find both styles in a couple of different types of materials, galvanized steel and PVC. Steel is the most durable and will last the longest, and is the only option when working with curves. Depending on the style of your home and your personal preferences, either will create a beautiful effect on the archway and will reinforce the corners to last. Here you will find the information needed to install bullnose edging.

Step 1 - Install the Corner Bead

Measure the length of the corner bead needed. You may need to use several pieces for each side of the archway. For the curve of the arch, you will want to cut the corner bead along the flat side in 1/2 to 3/4 inch intervals, the length depending on the radius of the arch. This will enable you to bend the corner bead to accommodate the contour of the arch opening. Secure the corner bead with drywall screws in 8 to 10-inch intervals. Put a screw in each section of the cut corner bead. Make sure to drive the screws down tight enough that the flathead lies slightly below the surface level of the rest of the surface.

Step 2 - Cover the Screws

With a small amount of mud (joint compound) on a smaller putty knife, cover each screw head with mud and smooth it over, working the mud into the depression created by the screw head. Scrape away the excess mud.

Step 3 - Mud the Rounded Edging

Spread a good amount of the drywall joint compound along the vertical edge of the corner bead with the drywall knife and smooth out with the wide knife, blending it away from the doorway. Continue spreading and smoothing, until the edge away from the corner is blended as much as possible into the adjoining wall, and make it is as even as you can. You will want a light coat of the mud over the corner bead too, and you may need to do repeat applications to get the desired effect. Let each coat dry completely between coats to prevent gouges to form in the wet compound.

Step 4 - Sand

Smooth out any ridges and finish blending the mud into the drywall with your sand block and sandpaper. Use a dry paintbrush to dust off clinging dust. Again, you may need to do another mud coat, let it dry, and sand again. This is a labor of love and the attention to detail will pay off.

Step 5 - Texture and Paint

The final step is texturing and painting. If the walls are already textured, you will want to texture the archway to match. Let the texture dry completely, and finally, primer, then paint the archway.