A second generation of PVCu beads, for external renders, is finding many new friends in the trade. The recent launch of the PowerBead range maintains all the traditional benefits of PVCu beads, but has also been designed with the primary aim of incorporating massive rigidity through extrusion techniques never before applied to plasterers’ beads. We believe this brings a host of additional benefits to the contractor and client alike.

By being able to mechanically fix the bead directly to the blockwork without the need for dubbing out to a constant even level, this results in a significant saving of adhesive mortar and installation time. The flexible wing will sit directly and securely on the surface of the blockwork where it is nailed and even if this is in a depression between two high points, the arris of the bead will not be deformed due to the massive strength that comes from the unique box section design. The necessity of having to dub out has thankfully been consigned to history.

Following extensive testing the PowerBead Corner, Stop, Bellcast and Movement Joint beads are proven to be considerably more rigid than the steel beads that are available today, and so have the advantage of being able to be nailed directly to uneven blockwork without deforming. This translates into cost savings in both labour and materials


The aesthetic case is equally straightforward. 15 years ago, this company developed the first PVCu corner bead to be specially designed for scraped renders and the same design principles result in the arris of the PowerBead being as unobtrusive as ever. Furthermore, the beads are available in 12 natural colours for perfect harmony with the chosen colour of the render.

Aesthetically, the flexible PVCu membrane of the movement joint (also available in the 12 colours), the only visible part of the bead, but at only 8mm wide, it is believed to be the least obtrusive available anywhere. The mechanical performance is equally impressive and exceeds the requirements of the British Standard by more than 200%. The rigidity outperforms any other PVCu movement joints, making fixing more reliable and speedier than ever before.

PVCu movement joints, making fixing more reliable and speedier than ever before.