Corner guards are products designed to protect wall corners and edges from damage, while blending in with the existing design. Corner protectors are available in a wide variety of materials, sizes and finishes. Typically installed in high-traffic areas such as hallways and corridors, they can help cut down on maintenance and repair costs.
Where are Corner Guards Used?
Modern construction techniques tend to leave outside corners vulnerable to damage due to the low impact resistance of drywall and other commonly used materials. Often found in hotels, healthcare facilities and other commercial locations, the products are typically installed where damage is most likely to occur.
(Corner guards can be mistaken for edge protectors, which are designed to protect children from sharp, exposed corners)
Materials
Due to the wide variety of installation and wall protection needs, corner guards are manufactured from many different materials. Most commonly they are made from different types of high-impact plastics. These tend to be economical and durable options. For heavier duty use cases, the addition of an aluminum retainer helps to absorb impact. Metal corner guards, made from stainless steel and aluminum, are also available for industrial applications.
Sizes
Width - The width of the corner guard-commonly referred to as the ‘wing size’-refers to the distance measured from the corner. Most corner guards are available in a variety of widths, but standard wing sizes include ¾”, 1 ⅛”, 1 ½”, 2”, 2 ½”, and 3”.
Length/Height - Corner guards are installed vertically, so the length refers to the vertical height of the corner guard once installed. While corner protectors are able to be manufactured at almost any height, the most common installation heights are 4’ and 8’. They can also be produced or cut to a specific floor-to-ceiling measurement.
Installation
There are three main methods for installing corner guards:
- Adhesive - A construction adhesive or glue is selected based on the combination of the corner guard and wall surface materials. This option allows the installer the most flexibility in placement.
- Screw On - Pre-drilled holes are used in the corner guard to allow the installer to fasten the protector to the wall using screws. A permanent solution that requires the use of fasteners and tools.
- Double Sided Tape - Two sided tape is applied to the inside of the corner guard, allowing it to be fixed directly to the wall surface. This is a user-friendly option that requires no tools.