How to Install Drywall Onto a Steel Frame

Some builders use steel framing instead of wood framing in garages, basements, homes and commercial buildings. Steel frames offer a variety of benefits including insect, rot and fire resistance, and it's lightweight and long-lasting. Many times builders use wood rather than steel for framing because wood is easier to work with and does not require specialized tools as does steel. Installing drywall onto a steel frame covers the metal supports and provides a finished look to the room.

1.25-inch Type S galvanized screws
Power screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Align the edge of the drywall panel to the corner of the room on the lower half of the wall.
- 2
  Sink 1.25-inch Type S galvanized screws through the drywall and lip of the C-shaped steel stud with a power screwdriver. Drive the screw into the drywall until you dimple the paper-facing. Keep 1/2-inch distance from the edge of the drywall when sinking screws to ensure a stable panel.
- 3
  Drive S-type screws along the top and bottom edge of the drywall at each steel stud. Sink screws every 12-to 16-inches throughout the field keeping a straight line from the top screw to secure the drywall panel to the framing.
- 4
  Line up the second panel along the bottom of the wall tightly abutted to the first panel.
- 5
  Drive a screw through the panel into the lip of the steel stud at the free end of the panel at the top. Drive a screw at the free end at the bottom of the drywall panel. Alternate between driving a screw through the top edge and then bottom edge of the panel until you reach the abutting edge of the drywall. Sink screws every 12 inches to 16 inches throughout the field of the drywall panel.
- 6
  Continue to abut the drywall panels and sink screws beginning away from the abutting joint and work back toward the joint until drywall covers all steel framing.

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