Tips On How To Install Metal Studs

As years go by people have moved away from the old technique of framing with wood to a more long lasting method of installing metal studs. And this is quite self explanatory, wood doesn’t last really long as compared to metal studs, it will decay over time and this is number one reason as to why installing metal studs is becoming popular among so many people. This kind of framing is often used in building apartments, offices, large constructions and so many others. Metal studs being very durable are also straight which makes installing them easy and they will never give you any hard time when it comes to storage. In case you are interests in installing metal studs but are completely clueless about what to do then here you are about to learn about how to install metal studs.

• Have your tools ready; before you move on to any step of the procedure, start by getting all the necessary equipment close by to save yourself the burden of looking for something you need and not finding it at the particular time and thus waste a lot of time. The tools you will need to install metal studs include fasteners, chop box/circular saw, laser level, level, chalk box, metal studs and a hammer drill.
• Find out how many metal studs you will need; for very 16 inches you will need a single metal stud so it all depends on how big your area is. After determining the actual number of metal studs that you will be needing, you can then add an extra stud just in case of anything. It is better to be ready than be sorry.
• Mark the area to which the track will be attached; make use of your chalk box to draw lines on the perimeter of the floor to define the area where you want your track to go. It will make your job faster and even more accurate.
• Fix the bottom of the track to the floor; drill a hole through the track and also through the stud and attach it together with screws, make sure that the track’s lower part is well positioned on the floor. If your floor is wooden it won’t too much trouble however if your floor is made of concrete then just you will need s stronger tool like a hammer drill or power nailer so that you save on time.
• Measure the top track; you can use a plumb bob or laser level just to ensure that the upper part and lower part are in perfect alignment. Commonly used is the laser level so if you are also using one just position it on the middle area of the track and turn it on so that it projects its laser beam on to the wall. The initial point on to which the laser line is projected will be your alignment point on the wall. You will realize that most advise you to use a laser level and that is simply because it is a lot more accurate and deliver efficient results compared to other devices. But in case you don’t have a laser level, you can as well use a plumb bob or two water levels.
• Fix the track on the upper ceiling; as soon as you are done measuring the track, you can then attach it to the ceiling up with the help of a drill or screw gun. There is no big difference from the way you attached the track on the floor.
• Trim your metal stud to the perfect length; wear gloves to protect your hands and begin trimming your studs to the appropriate length. You can begin by using a utility knife to score the studs on both sides, and then apply more force with aviation snips while trying to bend the stud forwards and backwards until it weakens and eventually breaks.
• Put studs and the track together; use C-clamp locking pliers to fix your metal studs into the track. As you drive the screws in, use moderate speed which is neither too high nor too low. And also select the clutch setting which delivers enough power for driving the screws into the track just perfectly. This setting is not too weak and at the same time not too strong. For each and every stud that you install just keep repeating that same process.
• Attach an electric cable on each stud; with the help of the plastic ties on each stud you will be able to securely attach an electric cable to the middle line of every center stud. Place the wire with perfection to ensure that it doesn’t rub against any rough or sharp areas.
• Add stability to the studs with pieces of wood; for cabinets, doors and windows you will definitely have to provide more support and wooden pieces will help you here so that you don’t spend a lot more money. Give the studs some time for them to dry before you go ahead to judge whether it is stable or firm enough. After this you will be completely through with installing your metal studs.

IMPORTANT TIPS:

• Use levels with just one magnetic side, since you will be working with metals this kind of level will easily attach to the stud and hence make your job slot simpler than it would have been.
• There is no big difference between metal studs of 25 gauge and those of 20 gauge they are both stable and secure enough so it is all up to you and how much you can afford to spend. Only that those with gauge of 25 build a frame that is a bit more stable and firm.
• It is always best to go in for self-tapping screws, simply because they make your job easier.
• Endeavor to cut the metal studs to the appropriate length because these studs definitely come in different sizes so it is simply up to you to trim them to a length that you feel is most appropriate.