Plasterers Accessories FAQ

Can beads be curved?

The dry lining arch bead ref PFB001 can be curved. Steel beads modified by the plasterer are liable to produce a facetted edge.

Can galvanised beads and lath be used externally?

We recommend stainless steel materials are used for external applications. However it is permissible to use galvanised Redrib ref 274 and render stop ref 570 in external applications that are assessed as sheltered or moderate exposure, away from the coast or heavily polluted atmospheres. Similar exposure restrictions apply to the use of galvanised, coated beads with uPVC nosing, references 571, 572 and 573.

Are stainless steel beads suitable for use with gypsum plaster?

Stainless steel beads can only be used with gypsum based plasters if they receive an additional protective coating which must be provided by the purchaser.

Where can plastic beads be used?

Expamet offer a range of upvc beads for both internal and external applications.

How are Shadow Gap details formed?

Expamet Feature Beads are available for use with plasterboard and wet plaster finishes. Engaging beads have a 20mm flange to recess into a rebate in a frame or skirting. Abutting beads have a 15mm wide channel that is positioned against the adjacent element.

Can galvanised beads be painted?

Galvanised steel can be painted provided suitable preparation using a wash and etch primer is applied. Your paint supplier will advise what is compatible with their products.

Which metal lathing should be used for rendering onto timber frame?

Riblath ref 267 provides a carrier for render onto timber frame. It should be fixed to over a breather paper to vertical battens to provide a drained and ventilated cavity between the render and structural frame. Always space metal lathing at least 25mm off timber based sheet materials.

Does metal lathing reinforce walls?

Expamet expanded metal lath and Riblath are only carriers for plaster and render finishes where a satisfactory bond cannot be achieved to the existing background

Can metal lathing be used across movement joint in walls?

Structural movement joints must be taken through the metal lath and plaster finish. This type of joint should be finished with back to back stop beads with a flexible sealant in-between.

Which Arch Formers can be used for dry lining?

The Plaster Arch kit, a pair of pre-cast quadrants, is available in different thicknesses to suit various wall depths. Alternatively the Dry Lining Arch Bead ref PFB001 can be used to finish an arch profile created in plasterboard.

Drawings of Expamet Plasterers’ Accessories

Basic dimensions are given in the sketches in the Plasterers’ Accessories brochure available as a PDF download from the LITERATURE section of this website.