How to Install Metal Studs for Framing in Basements

Measure the horizontal distance of the wall you are building in your basement. Cut two pieces of metal track to this length using tin snips. Metal track is used for top and bottom plates, and its shape is different than metal studs. The studs are shaped like a square C, but the tracks are shaped like a U, with only three sides. This allows you to slide the ends of the metal studs into the tracks.

Divide the length of your plates in inches by 16 and add one to determine the number of studs that you need. For example, if your plates are 128 inches long, you will need nine studs for your wall. Measure the height of the wall that you are building. Cut the number of studs that you need to this length.

Lay out the wall on the floor. Line up the studs parallel to each other and 16 inches apart. Place the top and bottom plates over the ends of the studs so that the studs are sitting within the U shape.

Check the square of the wall by stretching a measuring tape from one corner to the diagonally opposite corner, noting the length, then measuring the opposite diagonal. These two measurements should be identical. If they are not, move one of the corners of the longer diagonal toward the center of the wall until the two measurements are the same.

Assemble the wall by driving a screw through the plates at each point where they meet a stud. Drive the screw through the side of the plate and through the stud until the screw is tight and holding the two components together.

Apply a thick bead of construction adhesive to the face of the bottom plate.

Stand the wall up so that you have access to the side of the wall that was on the floor. Screw this side of the plates to the studs.

Position the wall in its final location. Check that the studs are perfectly vertical using a 4-foot level.

Secure the top of the wall by driving 2-inch-long screws through the top plate and into the underside of the floor joists.