How to Use Metal Wall Stud Screws

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Things You'll Need

  • 2 pairs of 4-inch self-locking C-grips

  • #2 Phillips magnetic adapter tip

  • Adjustable-clutch screw gun

  • #8 self-drilling wafer-head screws, 1/2-inch long

  • Safety glasses

Metal studs are fastened with screws designed to penerate the flange of the metal stud

The fastening requirements for metal studs differ from standard wood framing. Instead of nails, metal studs use screws to hold the flange of the metal stud to the flange of the stud rail. There are numerous types and lengths of screws used to assemble metal studs and they are designated by the tip used to penetrate the flange of the metal stud and the type of head on the screw. Both the tip and head type of the screw will have a direct impact on the ease and speed of the metal studs.

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Step 1

Secure the metal stud to both the top and bottom installed stud rails by placing one pair of 4-inch self-locking C-grips at the area where the flange of the metal stud contacts the flange of each stud rail.

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Step 2

Slide the #2 Phillips magnetic adapter tip into the adjustable-clutch screw gun and set the clutch per the recommendations of the metal stud screw manufacturer.

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Step 3

Place a #8, 1/2-inch self-drilling wafer-head screw onto the end of the #2 Phillips-head adapter and put on your safety glasses.

Step 4

Press the tip of the self-drilling screw on the flange of the top stud rail, aligned with the center of the metal stud flange.

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Step 5

Apply pressure on the screw, while pulling the trigger of the screw gun to secure the metal stud to the top stud rail. Remove the pair of four-inch self-locking C-grips and repeat the process to connect the metal stud to the bottom stud rail. Move to the other side of the metal stud and repeat the procedure to complete the installation of the metal stud.

Tip

For easier drywall installation, use a self-tapping screw with a low profile head, rather than a large obtrusive head.

Warning

Do not attempt to hold the metal stud in place with your fingers, as you can easily drill into your finger with the tip of the screw.

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