Instructions for Steel Stud Framing

Many structures are made with a wood frame. However, wood is becoming more expensive and may eventually no longer be economical. Steel stud framing is becoming more popular, and can be easier to work with and safer than wood because it's fire resistant and will not rot or succumb to insect damage. The challenging part of using steel stud framing is simply getting used to handling it.

Straight-cut aviation snips
Tape measure
Hex-head screws
Hammer drill
Carbide-tipped masonry bit
No. 8 pan-head screws
C-clamps
Drywall anchors

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the steel-stud framing to size. The ends can be easily cut off using straight-cut aviation snips. Wear heavy gloves to protect your hands from the sharp edges.
- 2
  Place the flat side of the steel-stud framing along the floor. Use hex-head screws and a hammer drill with a carbide-tipped masonry bit to secure the studs to a concrete foundation at 3-foot intervals.
- 3
  Account for floor and ceiling slope. Measure carefully and snip off the tops of any steel studs that are more than 1/16 inch taller than the rest.
- 4
  Install the steel studs to the base framing with No. 8 pan-head screws. Attaching a temporary C-clamp can help hold together the two pieces of steel while you connect them.
- 5
  Secure the top rail of the steel stud framing to the steel studs using the same method as the previous step. If you're working in an existing structure, also attach the top rail to the ceiling using drywall anchors.

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