Versatile PVC beads meet builder’s needs

Beads come in all shapes and sizes to support internal plasterboard and external render systems. In the past, these profiles have been predominantly manufactured from steel. Now, thanks to advantages in terms of transportation, ergonomics and value, PVC designs have clearly become the preferred option on site.

No more damaged goods

Take transportation for example. The thin, malleable profile of a steel bead is particularly susceptible to becoming warped in the back of the van, especially if there are tools and other materials inside. Having made an expensive order at the builders’ merchant, the last thing any tradesmen or site manager wants is for beads to turn up damaged.

Conversely, PVC beads retain their shape, which means even after a long, bumpy trip in a heavily loaded vehicle, they will remain usable. With the inherent resilience of PVC, builders can be sure of no more costly repeat orders and associated delays.

Better, safer, stronger

In terms of handling, PVC designs are by far the safer option. Steel beads have sharp edges, especially when cut, which have the potential to cause injury. Even when cut, PVC beads are much safer to handle during installation, which is why they are preferred both on site and for use at training colleges.

Reputation is everything to a builder, so any bead chosen for a construction project needs to be up to scratch. PVC performs excellently for render systems in coastal areas with high atmospheric moisture and salt, as it doesn’t corrode and cause staining like steel alternatives, avoiding potential remedial works. Used internally in places like prisons, PVC beads can’t be pulled from the wall to be used as a weapon. In the most challenging environments, PVC excels.

Delivered quickly with value added

The only material that rivals PVC in terms of application performance is stainless steel, but it is much more expensive. Choosing PVC beads means a more cost-effective bill of materials (BOM) for the contractor, without any compromise in plasterboard or render durability. With a combination of value and long service life, PVC beads fit the bill.

Most importantly, builders need the assurance that any bead can be delivered to site on time. Renderplas ensures this, thanks to its extensive supply network of merchants and stockists stretching the length and breadth of the UK – so customers can expect rapid delivery directly from local inventories.

More than just the builder’s choice

With the challenges of working on site, the last thing any tradesman needs is a problematic render or plaster bead. The widespread adoption of PVC beads in residential and commercial construction projects shows that contractors and architects already appreciate their superior usability, safety, value and durability.

Renderplas was formed in 1990 to offer the plastering industry a new concept in beading. The first manufacturer of PVCu beads in the UK, Renderplas is the leading exponent in the field.

The business sets out to address the shortcomings of traditional profiles by designing a range of beads in PVCu to suit the British and Continental market. The key benefit of PVCu beads is that they use the most cost-effective, non-corrosive material to produce robust plasterer friendly beads. Renderplas PVCu beads conform to BS EN 13914-1:2016 – External Rendering.

Renderplas products are designed to be unobtrusive with an extremely narrow arris, making it ideal for scratched or scraped finishes. Very popular with major house builders, its beads are available in white or ivory as standard to blend with most coloured renders. However, in order to give architects and contractors even more freedom to use through-coloured renders in more vibrant colours, a range of beads in 7 further colours are also available for popular render depths.

Used internally, whether, in conjunction with wet plastering or dry lining, they will not stain during lengthy drying out periods and offer superior protection against impact in heavy traffic areas.

By specifying a Renderplas PVCu bead, the problems associated with traditional beads and the aggravation of costly callbacks are avoided. Two different CAD file formats are available for Renderplas profiles from the Downloads page of its web site. Alternatively, register with FastrackCAD to use all of their architectural database services.