Steel Wall Framing - Erection

Prefabricated steel wall framing can be used with all types of floor construction. Although framing varies in detail between manufacturers, the general principles are the same for all systems.

Steel wall framing is generally erected using the same techniques and sequence as pre-fabricated timber framing. If you decide to subcontract this work an experienced carpenter should adapt easily to steel.

The general procedure is:

• The wall layout is marked on the floor using straight lines.
• Squareness is checked by accurately measuring diagonals in large areas of the house first, then individual rooms.
• Internal wall frames are stacked inside the room areas and external walls around the perimeter with their bottom plates adjacent to their final positions foundations.
• Starting at any convenient external corner stand and plumb a wall frame panel in its exact position.
• Stand and plumb an adjoining frame at right angles to make a self-supporting corner.
• Clamp the frames together and check again that both frames are in their exact locations and standing vertical.
• Connect the frames using the manufacturers recommended method – nails, screws, brackets, bolts or rivets.
• Proceed with the erection of the frames around the house, standing internal and external frames as they occur.
• The line of top plates in a run of walling should be checked with a string and temporary propping installed to keep them straight. Any misalignment must be corrected before loads are placed on the wall framing.
• In most cases, props provide adequate temporary bracing during wall frame erection, and should be left in place until the permanent bracing is installed.

Check with your manufacturer and refer to manufacturers installation guide.