How to frame with metal studs

This article is about how to frame with metal studs. Generally speaking, when building a ceiling or interior walls, most of us think first at wood studs, but you cannot even imagine the advantages you will get by framing with metal studs. Building with metal studs is not complex, but you have to learn the basic techniques and use proper materials. We have seen many diy-ers being reluctant to framing with metal studs, as this technology is rather new for the vast majority of people, as compared to wood studs. But this is because they have been used to the traditional methods and haven’t been told the advantages of the steel studs. Read the article and pay attention to our tips.

First of all, the metals studs are not as heavy as the wood studs, so a beginner could frame a wall or a ceiling without great difficulty. In addition, steel studs are resistant to fire and insects, which make them ideal to frame walls and ceilings.

Framing with steel studs cost about the same as working with wood studs, but you have the advantage of a light material which resists to moisture, fire and insects. A beginner could easily frame with metal studs, provided he follows the basic guidelines and uses the best materials and tools. Beside buying the right metal studs for your needs, you also need pan-head screws and a good screwdriver. In order to cut the steel studs, we recommend you to use straight cut thin snips.

The metal studs are perfectly straight and have square corners. These features make the metal studs ideal for framing walls and ceilings, especially if you are an amateur constructor. Moreover, the metal studs come in a great verity of dimensions, therefore you will reduce the cutting waste and the overall costs for your project. Before framing with metal studs, you should determine the needed amount of raw materials and the right size for your needs.

Made from this plan

Materials

Metal studs and track
Pan head screws to fasten the steel studs to the metal track
2-3” screws to secure the metal track
Metal brackets

Tools

Safety gloves, glasses
Measurement tape, carpentry pencil, spirit and water level
Chalk line
Drill machinery with hammering function
Electric screwdriver
Aviation snips
Ladder if framing metal stud ceiling

Tips

Use a laser level to make sure the ceiling will be perfectly leveled
Select the metal stud dimensions according to your needs (heavy duty studs for structural walls)

Metal stud ceiling framing

Fastening the metal truck to the walls

The first step of this project is to fasten the metal track to the wall. Consequently, you have to use a water level (or a 4′ spirit level) and a chalk line, as to mark the perimeter of the steel stud framing. Afterwards you have to install the metal track alongside the walls, using screws.

If the walls are made of concrete, you have to drill pilot holes and insert plastic dowels. If the structure of your walls is made of wooden studs, you have to use a stud finder as to make sure you insert the screws in the studs.

Cutting metal studs

When framing with metal studs, you will have to cut the steel. Therefore, you need a good pair of sharp aviation snips, as make precision cuts. You should measure the required length, mark it on the metal studs and then cut them with the aviation snips.

Framing with metal studs

After you have installed the metal track, you have to install the first layer of studs. You should remember that the metal stud ceiling must be perfectly level, otherwise the drywall ceiling would have a poor appearance.

The metal studs must be parallel with two walls of the room and perpendicular on the other two walls. This aspect is essential, otherwise you won’t be able to hang the drywall boards properly. In addition, the metal studs must sit firmly inside the metal tracks and must be secured with screws.

Installing metal studs

Then you have to install a second layer of metal studs as to increase the rigidity of the frame. The metal stud frame must be secured to the structural wood studs by installing brackets every 3’/1 m.

Remember that the metal studs must be installed every 2′ / 60 cm as to make sure the edges of the drywall will be placed on the median of the metal studs. In this way, the joints of two drywall boards will be over a metal stud.

Installing metal brackets

Next you have to secure the metal stud frame with brackets, every 3′ as to make sure the ceiling will be rigid. Consequently, the brackets should be anchored in the wood studs with several screws. On the other hand the two flanges of the bracket should be fastened to the metal studs by using a couple of screws.

Fastening metal studs with brackets

After you have fastened the metal brackets to the wood studs, you have to straighten the flanges and drive in a couple of screws to the metal studs. This aspect is essential, otherwise the metal stud frame won’t be able to support the weight of the drywall boards.

In addition at the intersection of the two layers of metal studs, you have to use a specific accessory, as to lock them together. This basic techniques can also be used when framing a wall with metal studs, but you have to pay attention the the electrical wires and cables which go through it.

Metal stud frame

As you can see in this image, you have to install the mineral wool between the studs and secure it with a wire net. In addition, the metal stud framing must be symmetrical and perfectly level, otherwise you have wasted your money and the materials.

Therefore, you have to use the spirit level, as to make sure the frame is built properly. These aspects are critical for your project, so you have to work with great care as to get the job done in a professional manner.

Installing a metal stud ceiling

In this image you can see how to frame with metal studs, but from a different perspective. You should notice quite easily the metal track alongside the walls and the two layers of metal studs.

Installing mineral wool insulation

Installing insulation between metal stud frame

Afterwards, you can install a new layer of mineral wool, as to increase the degree of thermic and phonic insulation. The mineral wool bats must be installed between the steel studs, as to be at the same level with the frame.

Framing ceiling with metal studs

The metal stud frame is almost ready, the only thing left to do is to learn how to hang the drywall boards. As you can see in the image, the steel stud frame is level and perfectly aligned, so consequently the drywall ceiling will have a professional look.

How to frame a wall with metal studs

Metal track wall

Before framing a wall stud, you have to install a metal track to the floor and to the ceiling. Therefore, we recommend you to use a tape measure and make sure you install the metal track properly.

The tracks are wider than the studs, as you will fit the studs inside the channel. In order to secure the metal track, you have to drive in screws every 10”. After you install the drywall boards, the wall will be more rigid than it might look at first glance.

Metal stud wall

Insert the metal studs in the tracks and secure them with 1/2” screws on both sides. Use a spirit level, as to make sure the metal studs are plumb. As to get the job done as a professional, you have to install metal studs every 16” (45 cm). Nevertheless, you have to add other steel studs for every door or window.

Metal stud door opening

If you want to install a door inside the metal wall frame, you have to build a top header and a crippler, by using steel studs. Work with patience, as to make the frame as rigid as possible.

Drive in the screws by using an electric screwdriver, to secure the frame properly. Install the pipes and cables and then add the drywall boards to the metal stud frame.

My best tips to frame with metal studs for drywall:

Framing with metal studs for drywall has several advantages, including being lightweight, durable, and resistant to pests and fire. Here are my best tips for framing with metal studs for drywall:

1. Choose the Right Gauge: Use 25-gauge studs for non-load-bearing interior walls, which are easy to work with and strong enough for most drywall installations. For load-bearing walls or heavier applications, opt for 20-gauge or thicker studs.

2. Measure and Mark Accurately: Use a tape measure and pencil to mark the locations for your studs on the floor and ceiling tracks. Mark stud placement every 16 or 24 inches on center, depending on your wall’s requirements. Accurate spacing ensures stability and easier drywall installation.

3. Cut Metal Studs Safely: Cut metal studs and tracks with aviation snips, a chop saw with a metal cutting blade, or power shears. Always wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from sharp edges and flying debris.

4. Use Self-Tapping Screws: To assemble the studs and tracks, use self-tapping screws designed for metal framing. These screws easily penetrate the steel and create a solid connection without the need for pre-drilling.

5. Install Tracks First: Start by installing the top and bottom tracks. Attach them to the floor and ceiling using concrete anchors for concrete floors or screws for wood framing. Make sure the tracks are level and plumb before proceeding.

6. Plumb and Level Your Studs: Place the metal studs into the top and bottom tracks, ensuring they are properly aligned. Use a level to check that the studs are plumb (vertically straight) and adjust as needed before securing them to the tracks.

7. Secure the Studs to the Tracks: Use self-tapping screws to attach the studs to the tracks at both the top and bottom. Typically, you’ll need one screw on each side of the stud at both the top and bottom to create a sturdy frame.

8. Brace the Wall with Blocking: If you’re installing heavier items like cabinets or shelves, add metal blocking between the studs. This provides extra support and ensures that the framing can hold the weight of these items when drywall is attached.

9. Install Electrical and Plumbing: Metal studs have pre-punched holes that are perfect for running wiring and plumbing. Use plastic grommets to protect the wires from the sharp edges of the metal studs and prevent wear over time.

10. Double Up on Door and Window Openings: When framing around doors and windows, double up the studs on both sides for added strength. Use metal headers above door and window openings for extra support.

11. Stabilize Long Walls: For walls longer than 10 feet, install horizontal bracing or stiffeners between the studs to prevent flexing and add stability. This is especially important in areas with high traffic or heavier drywall installations.

12. Check for Alignment Before Installing Drywall: Once the frame is complete, double-check the alignment of all the studs to ensure they are straight and evenly spaced. Correct any issues before you start hanging drywall.

By following these tips, you’ll create a strong, well-aligned metal stud frame that’s ready for drywall installation, giving your walls durability and precision!

Thank you for reading our article on how to frame with metal studs and we recommend you to check out the rest of our projects. Don’t forget to LIKE and SHARE our projects with your friends, by using the social media widgets and subscribe to our feed to get the latest articles. SUBSCRIBE to be the first that gets our latest projects.

PRINT PLAN