Planning and Layout

• 1). Plan the layout of light gauge metal partitions by creating a good set of working drawings. Mark all openings and utility features clearly. Precise dimensioning will ensure a proper installation.
  
  
• 2). Transfer details of the blueprint to the floor area of the project using a chalk line, tape measure and carpenter’s crayon. Make accurate 90-degree corners with the aid of a carpenter’s square. Indicate all openings, electrical and plumbing with crayon. Spray the chalk lines and crayon marking with clear plastic spray to prevent them from being rubbed out before partition track is installed.
  
  
• 3). Install a “U” track on the floor layout with fasteners spaced 24 inches apart. Use powered fasteners on concrete floors and ceilings. Attach the track to wood floors and ceilings with three-quarter-inch self-tapping screws. Set the track with a five-eighths-inch gap at corners and wall intersections to allow drywall installation.
  
  
• 4). Transfer the floor layout to the ceiling. Use a metal stud and magnetic level to establish vertical plumb points at each end of a partition run. Snap a chalk line between end points for top-track alignment. Attach the ceiling track with powered studs for concrete ceilings or screws for wood ceilings.
  
  

Wall Framing

• 1). Begin framing at an exterior wall. Cut “C” studs a half-inch short of ceiling height with tin snips to allow for ceiling deflection. Set studs at 16-inch or 24-inch spacing as noted on the plans. Face all studs in the same direction with the cut end at the top of each stud. Be sure the punch-outs in the studs line up horizontally. Plumb each stud with a magnetic level.
  
  
• 2). Attach each stud to the floor and ceiling tracks with three-quarter-inch self-tapping screws. Place the screws on one side of the stud. This will allow drywall to be installed first on the side of the wall with no track screws. With drywall in place on one face of the wall, the track screws can be removed before installing the second wall surface. This method of setting the studs will allow for a slight amount of ceiling deflection.
  
  
• 3). Set double studs at each side of doorways and windows for extra strength. Fabricate headers and sills from the “U” track. Cut a piece of track 6-inches to 12-inches longer than the door or window opening. Center the track section on the opening. Cut the vertical legs of the track with tin snips to match the opening width. Fold the end sections 90 degrees. Measure, level and screw the headers or sills in place.