Render Beads

Render beads create straight lines, protect edges, and help external render last longer. Explore our range of corner beads, stop beads, movement beads, and bellcast drip profiles that are suitable for render-only refurbishments and external wall insulation systems.

Render beads for a smooth and durable finish

Beads work with the mesh reinforced base coat to set clean corners, define stop lines, control movement, and guide rainwater away from the surface. Used correctly, they help prevent cracks and deliver a smooth, professional render across elevations and details. Most products are in stock, so you can review options, add to basket, and place your order quickly; prices are shown ex VAT and inc VAT, with VAT added at checkout.

What is a render bead?

A render bead is a preformed profile used to set out corners, terminations, movement joints, and drip lines. Many profiles include mesh wings so they can be embedded into the base coat of thin coat systems, providing long term protection and a consistent line to follow during application.

What beads do you use for rendering?

For thin coat render systems, choose profiles with integrated mesh that embed into the base coat. For monocouche or thick coat applications, select beads sized to the coat thickness. On large uninterrupted areas, movement joints are used to manage thermal and structural movement in the render.

Different types of render beads

Render beads play an essential role in achieving a clean, durable, and professional finish on rendered surfaces. They help define edges, prevent cracks, and protect vulnerable areas from moisture and impact. Depending on the needs of your project, you can choose from several types of beads designed for specific purposes and finishes.

Corner beads for neat and protected edges

Corner beads reinforce external angles, create straight lines, and improve impact resistance around openings. Choose uPVC or metal profiles, with or without mesh, to suit the substrate and render system.

Stop beads for clean terminations and render stop lines

Stop beads set a crisp edge where the render stops, such as at door and window frames or along a change in material. They protect vulnerable edges at terminations and make finishing simpler.

Movement beads to absorb shifts and help prevent cracks

Movement beads are installed vertically to manage movement and reduce cracking on wide expanses of render. They are embedded within the base coat and are especially useful on long elevations.

Drip beads to guide rainwater away from walls

Also known as bellcast beads, these profiles create a drip line that sheds water away from the façade. Explore our bellcast bead profiles for bases and undersides where water control is critical.

Plastic render beads for a lightweight, rust free option

uPVC beads offer a light, corrosion resistant alternative to metal and are suitable for many external render applications. They integrate well with mesh reinforced base coats. A popular example is the uPVC stop bead with mesh.

What to look for when buying render beads

Material choice: plastic versus metal. uPVC profiles are rust free and easy to cut, while stainless or aluminium options provide high rigidity. Match material to exposure and specification.

Durability and weather resistance. Select profiles designed for external render, with UV stable plastics or corrosion resistant metals for long service life.

Compatibility with external render systems. Ensure beads are sized for your coat thickness and suitable for the system build up. Many thin coat systems require mesh wings embedded into the base coat. See fibreglass mesh and our external wall insulation systems for compatible products.

Helpful reads

For more detail, read Different types of beading for render and EWI systems, guidance on preventing cracked render, and advice on choosing bead size for thick coat render.