The Pros and Cons of Rounded and Square Drywall Corners for Your Home

When it comes to finishing the corners of your drywall, you have two main options: rounded or square. While both styles have their advantages and drawbacks, ultimately the decision will come down to personal preference, budget, and the specific needs of your project. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about rounded and square drywall corners, from understanding the differences to making an informed decision about which option is best for your home.

Understanding Drywall Corners: Rounded vs. Square

Drywall corners are the points where two walls meet, and they require a special treatment to get a smooth, finished appearance. Rounded corners are those that have a gentle curve, and they’re often used to give a more fluid appearance to a room. Square corners, on the other hand, have a sharp, straight edge, and they create a more defined, modern look. It’s important to note that both types of corners can be achieved with various types of corner bead, which is a strip of metal or plastic that’s nailed to the corner to create a smooth surface for the drywall joint compound to adhere to.

When deciding between rounded and square corners, it’s important to consider the style of the room and the overall aesthetic you’re trying to achieve. Rounded corners are often used in more traditional or softer design styles, while square corners are popular in modern or minimalist spaces. Additionally, rounded corners can be more forgiving in terms of wear and tear, as they are less likely to chip or dent over time. However, square corners can be easier to install and may require less maintenance in the long run. Ultimately, the choice between rounded and square corners comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your space.

The Pros and Cons of Each Type of Corner

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of rounded and square corners:

Pros of Rounded Corners:

• They soften the look of a room and create a more flowy, organic feel
• They’re less likely to get dinged or damaged because there are no sharp edges
• They’re great for creating a more feminine or retro look

Cons of Rounded Corners:

• They can be difficult and time-consuming to install, especially for a large area
• They may not be as durable as square corners, especially if they’re in high-traffic areas
• They can be more expensive than square corners because of the extra materials and labor involved

Pros of Square Corners:

• They’re simple and quick to install, which can save time and money
• They create a clean, modern look that’s popular in many homes
• They’re more durable than rounded corners and can hold up better in high-traffic areas

Cons of Square Corners:

• They may not be as forgiving of imperfections in wall finishes, which can make them difficult to install for inexperienced DIYers
• They may not be as visually interesting as rounded corners, which can make a room feel less dynamic
• They may not be ideal for homes with children, as they can be more prone to bumps and scrapes

It’s important to consider the overall style and function of the room when choosing between rounded and square corners. Rounded corners may be more suitable for a cozy bedroom or living room, while square corners may be better for a sleek and modern kitchen or bathroom. Additionally, the color and texture of the walls can also play a role in the decision-making process. Lighter colors and smoother finishes may complement rounded corners, while darker colors and more textured finishes may work better with square corners.

When to Choose a Rounded Drywall Corner

Rounded drywall corners are a great choice under certain circumstances. Here are a few situations where rounded corners might be the better option:

Situations Where Rounded Corners Are Ideal:

• You’re looking for a more organic, flowy feel in your home decor
• You want to create a vintage or retro look in your space
• Your home has a lot of sharp, angular features already and you want to soften the overall look

Another situation where rounded drywall corners can be a good choice is if you have young children or pets in your home. Sharp corners can be dangerous and cause injuries, especially if someone accidentally bumps into them. Rounded corners are a safer option as they are less likely to cause harm. Additionally, rounded corners can be easier to clean as they don’t accumulate as much dust and dirt as sharp corners do.

When to Choose a Square Drywall Corner

Square drywall corners are the classic choice, and they work well in many different types of rooms. Here are a few situations where square corners might be the better option:

Situations Where Square Corners Are the Better Option:

• You’re going for a more modern or minimalist look in your home decor
• Your home has a lot of curved or round elements and you want to create a contrast
• You’re on a tight budget or timeline and want to keep things simple

However, there are also situations where square corners may not be the best choice. For example, if you have young children or pets, rounded corners may be a safer option to prevent injuries from sharp edges. Additionally, if you’re looking to add some visual interest to your space, rounded corners can soften the overall look and create a more inviting atmosphere.

Another factor to consider is the style of your home. If you have a traditional or vintage-inspired decor, rounded corners may be a better fit to complement the overall aesthetic. On the other hand, if you have a more contemporary or industrial style, square corners can add to the clean, streamlined look.

DIY Guide: How to Make a Rounded Drywall Corner

If you’re interested in installing rounded corners yourself, it’s important to follow the proper steps to ensure a professional-looking finish on your walls.

Step-by-Step Instructions for a Professional Finish:

1. Measure and cut your corner bead to the proper length for each corner.
2. Attach the corner bead to the corner of the wall using drywall screws.
3. Apply drywall joint compound over the corner bead, making sure to smooth out any bumps or ridges.
4. Once the joint compound is dry, sand the corners smooth using fine-grit sandpaper.
5. Apply a second coat of joint compound if needed, sanding again once it’s dry.
6. Paint or wallpaper your walls as desired.

It’s important to note that rounded drywall corners can be more difficult to install than traditional square corners. It may take some practice to get the hang of applying the joint compound smoothly and evenly over the curved corner bead. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn out perfectly – with some patience and persistence, you can achieve a professional-looking finish.

DIY Guide: How to Make a Square Drywall Corner

Installing square corners is generally a simpler process than installing rounded corners, but there are still some steps to follow to get a professional-looking finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfectly Square Corner:

1. Measure and cut your corner bead to the proper length for each corner.
2. Attach the corner bead to the corner of the wall using drywall screws.
3. Apply drywall joint compound over the corner bead, making sure to create a crisp, sharp edge where the two walls meet.
4. Once the joint compound is dry, sand the corners smooth using fine-grit sandpaper.
5. Apply a second coat of joint compound if needed, sanding again once it’s dry.
6. Paint or wallpaper your walls as desired.

It’s important to note that when measuring and cutting your corner bead, you should add an extra 1/8 inch to the length to allow for the thickness of the joint compound. This will ensure that the corner bead fits snugly against the wall and creates a seamless finish.

Cost Comparison: Rounded vs. Square Drywall Corners

When it comes to budget considerations, it’s important to know that rounded corners generally cost more than square corners. This is because the installation process is more complex, and there may be more materials involved. However, the exact cost will depend on factors like the size of the room, the type of corner bead used, and the skill level of the installer.

Which Option is More Budget-Friendly?

If you’re on a tight budget, square corners may be the better choice for your project. However, it’s important to weigh the cost savings against your preferences and the overall style of your home.

Another factor to consider when choosing between rounded and square corners is the overall aesthetic of your space. Rounded corners can give a softer, more organic feel to a room, while square corners can create a more modern, clean look. It’s important to think about the style you’re going for and how the corners will fit into that vision.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that rounded corners can be easier to clean and maintain than square corners. Square corners can accumulate dust and dirt more easily, and may require more frequent cleaning. Rounded corners, on the other hand, have a smoother surface that is less likely to collect debris.

Hiring a Contractor vs. Doing it Yourself: Which is Better?

Another important consideration when it comes to drywall corners is whether to hire a professional contractor or do the work yourself. Both options have their pros and cons.

Factors to Consider Before Making a Decision:

• Your level of experience with home improvement projects
• Your available time and resources
• The complexity of the installation process
• The size of the project
• Your budget

The Pros and Cons of DIY vs. Hiring a Contractor

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each option:

Pros of DIY:

• You can save money by doing the work yourself
• You have more control over the outcome
• You can take pride in a job well done

Cons of DIY:

• You may not have the necessary skills or experience to create a professional-looking finish
• You may not have access to all the necessary tools and materials
• You may end up spending more money and time than you expected

Pros of Hiring a Contractor:

• You can be sure of a professional-looking finish
• You don’t have to worry about purchasing or renting tools and equipment
• You can save time and effort by letting someone else handle the project

Cons of Hiring a Contractor:

• You will have to pay for labor and materials, which can be expensive
• You may not have as much control over the outcome
• You will need to find a reputable contractor to ensure quality work

Conclusion

Choosing between rounded and square drywall corners can feel like a big decision, but ultimately it comes down to your personal style and budget. By understanding the pros and cons of each option, as well as the factors that affect the cost and ease of installation, you can make an informed decision that will give your walls a professional, finished look that you’ll love for years to come.