Cutting metal drywall corners, specifically metal corner bead, primarily involves using appropriate tools to trim the material to the required length before installation. The standard method uses tin snips or scissors for the cut.
Essential Tools for Cutting Metal Corner Bead
To effectively cut metal corner bead, you will need a few basic tools:
- Tape Measure: To accurately determine the length needed for each corner.
- Tin Snips or Heavy-Duty Scissors: These are the primary tools used to cut through the metal.
- Safety Glasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from metal shards.
- Work Gloves: To protect your hands from sharp edges.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting
The process for cutting metal corner bead to length is straightforward. Here’s how it's typically done:
1. Measure the Corner
Use a tape measure to find the exact length required for the corner you are working on. Measure from the floor or desired starting point up to the ceiling or end point where the bead will terminate.
2. Mark the Cut
Transfer the measured length onto the metal corner bead. Use a pencil or marker to make a clear mark on the bead where you need to cut.
3. Cut the Metal Bead
As the reference states, to cut the bead to length:
Use a pair of tin snips or scissors to cut in from each side of the metal and then bend it, in the middle to break it apart.
This method works by scoring the metal from both edges, making it easier to snap cleanly at the desired length.
- Position your snips or scissors: Align the blades with your mark.
- Cut from each side: Make cuts from both edges of the metal flange towards the center of the bead's peak.
- Bend and snap: Once you've cut inward from both sides, gently bend the bead at the cut line. The metal should snap cleanly along the score marks made by your cuts.
4. Handle with Care
Metal edges can be sharp. Always wear work gloves and safety glasses when cutting and handling metal corner bead.
Alternative Cutting Methods (Less Common for Simple Length Cuts)
While tin snips are standard for cutting to length, other tools might be used in specific situations or for different types of cuts (like angled cuts), though these are less common for basic length cutting:
- Hack Saw: Can be used, but is slower and can leave a rougher edge.
- Miter Shears (for plastic or vinyl bead): Note that standard miter shears designed for trim are usually not suitable for cutting metal.
- Angle Grinder (with cutoff wheel): Effective but overkill and potentially hazardous for simple length cuts on thin corner bead.
For cutting straight to length as described, tin snips or heavy-duty scissors are the recommended and most efficient tools.
