How to bend metal studs

This step by step diy article is about how to bend metal studs. Bending steel studs is not difficult if you use the right tools and techniques. Therefore, you have to use first a pair of thin snips and cut the flanges of the metal tracks, every 2-5”. Afterwards, you can secure the curved metal tracks with screws, as to get a nice arch. Building with metal studs and tracks is not difficult, provided you buy the right materials and follow our tips. By learning how to bend steel studs you can build arched walls or even door archways, therefore we recommend you to pay attention to our tips and tricks.

There are two types of metal framing components: studs and tracks. In most of the cases, the tracks are installed at the bottom and at the top of a wall, while the metal studs are placed inside their channels and secured with screws. In addition, the studs have to be perfectly straight and bear the weight of the drywall boards. Therefore you should remember that you have to bend the steel tracks and not the studs.

The metal studs come in different sizes and lengths, as to fit your needs properly. Therefore, there are 1 5/8” by 3 1/2 ” metal studs, 1 5/8” by 6” metal studs, 1 5/8” 8” metal studs and 1 5/8” by 10” metal studs. Some of the metal studs can be used to frame load bearing walls, while others can be used only for building partition walls.

Made from this plan

Materials

Metal studs and tracks
1/2” no. 8 pan-head screws

Tools

Screwdriver
Thin snips
Safety gloves

Tips

Spread the adhesive on small surfaces, otherwise it will get dried soon
Use a level to check if the floor is horizontal, before spreading the adhesive

Time

10-20 minutes for every steel tracks

Metal studs

In order to bend metal studs, you need to use a straight cut thin snips. Choose the metal studs and tracks with the right size for your project and buy a sharp aviation snips, to cut the studs at the needed lengths. In addition, you have to make several cuts on both flanges of the metal studs, as to ease the bending process.

How to bend metal studs

The best way to bend metal studs is to cut their flanges, every 2-3”, on both sides. Actually, if you want to create curves or archways with drywall boards, you have to bend the metal tracks and then fit the steel studs in their channels.

In order to make the cuts, we recommend you to use straight-cut thin snips. Remember that the cuts must be parallel on the flanges, otherwise you won’t be able to bend the metal track properly. Learn more about how to build a drywall arch.

Bending metal stud arch

After you have cut the steel studs, you have to bend them as to fit into position. Make sure you wear safety gloves, otherwise you might injure yourself in the sharp edges.

Secure the curved metal tracks to the drywall board, by using drywall screws ( use 1-1/4″ drywall screws for 1/2” drywall, as if you are installing 5/8” drywall a better option would be 6 x 1-5/8″ screws). Use 1/2” no. 8 pan-head screws to fasten the metal studs together.

Bending steel studs

Fastening metal stud arch

If you have to attach the metal studs to the ceiling or to a wall, then you have to cut out small squares from the flange, by using thin snips. Work with patience as to get the job done as a professional, otherwise you might damage the metal studs. Next, drive in several screws through the metal studs, as to fasten it to the ceiling / walls.

Securing metal stud arch

In this image you can see the procedure from a different angle. If you want to secure the metal studs to a concrete ceiling / wall, you have to make several pilot holes with a drill machinery, install plastic dowels and drive in the screws.

If you have to secure the steel studs to a drywall ceiling, you should first locate the wood studs (with a stud finder) and then drive in screws every 10”. Use a spirit level to make sure you install the stud properly.

Bending steel studs

After you have installed the curved metal studs, you have to reinforce the whole structure with other metal studs. In this image you can see one of our metal stud projects, framing an arched low ceiling. Learn more about how to build a ceiling arch.

My best tips on bending metal studs for drywall:

Bending metal studs for drywall can be necessary when working on curved walls or unique architectural designs. Here are my best tips to ensure a smooth, precise bend:

1. Use the Right Type of Studs: Light-gauge steel studs (typically 25-gauge) are easier to bend compared to thicker, heavier-gauge studs. These are commonly used in drywall framing and are flexible enough to shape while still providing support.

2. Mark Your Bend Line: Before bending, mark the location where you need the bend. Use a straightedge or T-square to ensure the line is even and consistent. Accurate marking ensures your bend will be smooth and precise.

3. Cut Reliefs for Tight Bends: For tighter curves, you’ll need to cut “relief cuts” into the metal stud. Use tin snips to make evenly spaced cuts along the stud’s flanges, about every 3-6 inches, depending on the curve. These cuts allow the metal to flex more easily without kinking.

4. Bend Gradually: Always bend the metal stud slowly and gradually to avoid snapping or creasing it. Apply even pressure across the stud, working from one end to the other, until the desired curve is achieved.

5. Use a Bending Jig for Precision: If you’re working with multiple studs or need to create consistent bends, consider using a bending jig. This tool helps guide the stud through a smooth curve, ensuring all bends are uniform and precise.

6. Support the Stud While Bending: Make sure to support the entire length of the stud while bending to prevent any twisting or warping. Using a workbench or sawhorses can help keep the stud stable during the process.

7. Secure the Bends: After bending, secure the metal stud to the framing with self-tapping screws to hold it in place. For curved walls, attach the stud to both the top and bottom tracks, making sure the curve is smooth and evenly distributed.

8. Check for Alignment: Once bent, ensure that the stud maintains the correct alignment within the wall framework. Use a level or plumb bob to make sure the stud is properly aligned before installing drywall.

9. Use a Track for Larger Curves: For larger curves, such as archways or curved walls, it’s often easier to bend the metal track instead of the studs. Cut relief notches in the sides of the track, bend it to the desired curve, and then insert the straight studs into the track.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to bend metal studs cleanly and effectively for your drywall project, ensuring strong and stable framing for curved walls or unique designs!

Thank you for reading our article about how to bend metal studs and we recommend you to check out the rest of our projects. Don’t forget to share our articles with your friends, by using the social media widgets.

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