A corner board is a hardware device used to protect the edges of walls, packaging and other objects. This device may also be known as a corner protector or corner guard, and can be used both to protect an object from damage and to give it a finished appearance. When used in packaging and shipping applications, the corner board is often made from disposable materials. When installed on walls and other building structures, the corner board is often made from more durable materials.
As people pass through a building, they are likely to cause damage to the walls over time, especially along the corners. This is especially true in hospitals and manufacturing facilities, where carts and beds may strike the wall during transit. A corner board installed along the intersection of two walls helps to protect drywall or plaster finishes. These edge protectors not only help maintain the appearance of the wall, but also reduce the need for maintenance and repairs over time. Because these corner boards are often fairly inexpensive, building owners will often find it more economical to use corner boards than to repeatedly repair the walls.
Corner guards can be made from rubber, plastic, wood or metal. They may run the entire height of the wall, or simply cover areas that are subject to frequent abuse. While a standard corner guard forms a 90-degree angle to fit around the corner of a wall, specialty models are also available to fit non-standard walls. Some form larger or smaller angles, while others are adjustable for easy installation.
Architects and building managers often choose a corner board that complements the surrounding wall finishes. Clear plastic models are popular because they allow paint or wallpaper to show through. Other installers simply paint the corner board as they paint the wall, or choose colored corner guards that match or accent the walls. Depending on the model, these edge protectors can be screwed or nailed in place. Others are fixed to the walls with adhesive, while some feature a self-sticking backing.
Special corner boards can also be found on packages and palletized shipments. Made from layers of laminated cardboard or paperboard, these edge protectors reduce shipping damage and increase the stability of large loads. They are held in place with adhesive, or simply wrapped in plastic or banding along with the entire shipment. These edge protectors minimize indentation from banding on boxes, which may reduce the total amount of packaging needed to ship.