What is wall framing?
Wall framing is the process of putting together construction materials to hold up and give shape to a wall. Framing for a plain wall consists of the top and bottom plates that run horizontally along the entire length of the wall and the studs running vertically from the bottom plate to the top, creating a framework. The shorter jack and jamb studs are used where there are openings like windows and doors. Other components like the lintel, noggings, and bracing provide additional strength to the structure.
Wood vs. metal
The wood used to be the primary material used in wall framing, but metal framing is steadily gaining popularity over the years. One of its advantages is resistance to fire, which houses from places with warmer climates like Florida would benefit from. With a metal framing installation Naples, Florida homeowners could rest assured that there would be fewer materials to stoke a fire. Other benefits from galvanized metal framing Naples, Florida residents could expect, is that steel is no fodder for termites or mold, and it is impervious to corrosion.
How metal framing is done
Working with a perfectly straight steel stud is easier than with wood. Also, steel does not shrink or split, so you can be sure there are no surprises in later stages of construction or even after. You will find that putting up a flawlessly straight wall each and every time is possible using metal and the following steps for Naples metal framing:
1. The first step in Naples metal framing installation is arming yourself with the proper tools. You can either rent or buy the following:
· Impact drivers and screw guns to connect metal studs together
· Metal cut-off circular saw
· Nibblers and snips for cutting corrugated metals or flanges and trim studs
· Plasma cutting machine for creating openings for running cables and conduits
· Measuring and layout devices like level and measure lasers and plumb bob
· C-clamp locking pliers for temporarily securing metal studs together
2. Layout then attach the wall frame
· Mark the location of the wall on the floor then install the bottom plate or track. Next, use the plumb bob or level to find the matching position of the top track on the ceiling then fasten it.
· There should be enough studs to allow no more than 12 inches of linear wall space in between them. Cut these anchor studs to fit the distance between the top and bottom track. Do not allow gaps of more than 1/16 of an inch as this will transfer some of the load on the screws.
NOTE: Do not lay a bottom track over door openings as you would not be able to cut it later in the construction
· Secure the metal studs to the tracks using the c-clamps then drive in the screws at the point where the studs and track meet.
· Lay down electrical cable through the center of the studs and secure with plastic ties. Make sure each knockout has a plastic bushing to prevent the sharp edges of the studs from cutting the wire.
· Add wood blocking where doors, windows, and cabinets would go.
· Lastly, install the drywall sheets or sheathings. Start on one side by standing one drywall sheet against the wall; the other edge should be in the middle of a metal stud. Trim the drywall sheet to match the height of the metal framing. Then drive self-tapping drywall screw to secure the sheet into the stud. Repeat the process until the entire wall is covered.
Aside from the many advantages of steel over wood in wall framing, metal wall framing is relatively easy and can be done even by novice builders. Alternatively, there is one metal framing contractor Naples homeowners could rely on – Smith Plastering, Inc.
Smith Plastering, Inc. offers excellent Naples metal framing services homeowners from Collier and Lee counties could also avail. Call them at 239-594-7537 or visit their website at https://www.smithplastering.com/metal-framing-naples-marco-island-bonita-springs-fort-myers for your Southwest Florida metal framing needs.
Metal wall framing is better for your home, and so is Smith Plastering, Inc. Call them to meet your metal framing needs.
