The walls of a building may be constructed from a timber or metal framework with drywall nailed or screwed on top. This is known as studwork. It is quick to construct, lightweight and strong. Studs are the vertical posts placed between the head and sole plates of the wall.
Timber stud walling
Timber stud walls are usually built from 100 x 50mm (4 x 2″) or 75 x 50mm (3 x 2″) sawn softwood. The partitions are comprised of a head or ceiling plate which is fixed to the ceiling and a sill, or sole plate fixed to the floor.
Studs are placed vertically between the plates, equally spaced (400mm (1′ 4″) centre to centre) and fixed by skew nailing or screwing. Horizontal noggins are placed between the studs mid-way up the partition
What is skew nailing?
Skew nailing is the process of driving a nail in at an angle (or skew) of between 20 to 30 degrees. Nails are hammered through the stud and into the sole plate. The stud is nailed on each side with nails at opposite angles.
Metal stud walling
A metal stud wall has the same principal as a timber stud wall. The metal components are designed for ease of installation and strength and are manufactured in various widths and lengths. Metal U channels are fixed to the ceiling and floors. Metal C studs are then placed vertically between them and equally spaced – typically 600mm (2ft) centre to centre.
The studs should be placed so that any holes in them line up. This will allow easy installation of electrical wires or plumbing in the wall.
Please note:
There are various methods of installing metal studs. Some systems require the studs to be fixed to the ceiling and floor channels, either by crimping or screwing. Others are ‘friction’ or ‘twist’ fitted allowing the studs to be slid into position to match the size of the lining material. Please check with the supplier or manufacturer for the recommended method of installation.