Remodeling 14: How to Install an Arch in an Opening

Here is a sketch that may help explain the framing detail for a rounded corner or arch:

Cut out the desired curve from a piece of 3/4" plywood with a jig saw, etc. You need two such pieces for each side or four for both sides.

Nail the plywood curve flush to the edge of the framing on each side of the 2x4 wall, between the header and the cripple.

Nail or screw the drywall on the face of the wall first. Cut the shape of the drywall out with a drywall saw, following the plywood edge as your guide.

Depending on the radius of the curve you can either dampen the drywall that is 4 1/2" wide to bend over the plywood curves, or cut slits in the back of it, about 1" apart and bend it into the curve while screwing it in place. Try to get the drywall tight into the curve to get an even, balanced curve. It may not be perfectly smooth, this can be done with the mud later. For the corner bead, use plastic bead that is already slit around the sides and nail it in place, adjusting the curve in and out a bit to make it a smooth curve. The smoother the bead is the better the curve will look with the mud on it.

When applying the mud use a wide enough drywall knife to span both plastic beads and use them as a guide, 6" knife should do. When sanding use sandpaper without a holder so it will curve around nicely. Sanding sponges work well here, too.

The thing to watch is the accuracy of the plastic trim installation since these are the edges you will follow when applying the mud and sanding it off. They act as guides. Take the time to put the plastic bead on to form a nice curve, square across the wall with the bead on the other side.

Mud up the curve and wall as normal, at least two layers with a third as skim coat to touch up here and there.

Wow! A curved doorway that wasn't that hard after all.

Dave