Evolution and Innovation in Drywall Joint and Corner Finishing, 1900-2015

摘要

Reinforcement and aesthetic finishing of drywall joints and corners has seen steady evolution over the past century. Products on the market include numerous woven, nonwoven, and plastic tapes for joint reinforcement, and the patent literature outlines even more innovative, if not always practical, joint treatment strategies. The introduction of flexible plastic corner products has provided contractors with a variety of new options for robust and efficient finishing of off-angle comers and sweeping arches. The paper reviews the patent literature to highlight how new materials, new product designs, and new manufacturing technologies have addressed the challenges of finishing gypsum wallboard joints and corners and how various innovative solutions have increased efficiency and performance.