"Doing a corner" with metal studs typically involves two main steps: framing the corner structure itself and then applying drywall to it. The method for framing differs slightly from wood, and finishing the drywall requires specific techniques, especially for inside corners.
Framing Metal Stud Corners
Framing a corner with metal studs provides the necessary structure and attachment points for sheathing and drywall. Unlike wood framing which often uses a three-stud corner, metal stud corners are typically framed using simpler configurations, often involving two studs and possibly blocking.
Common metal stud corner framing methods include:
- L-Shape (Two Studs): This is a basic method where two studs are placed perpendicular to each other, forming an 'L'. One stud's flange is fastened to the web of the other stud. This creates a corner but might require additional blocking or a separate piece of stud web to provide sufficient backing for drywall on both sides of the corner.
- Box or Blocked Corner: A more robust method involves creating a box or using blocking between two studs.
- Position two studs to form the corner.
- Insert short sections of track or stud material (blocking) horizontally between the studs at intervals.
- Fasten the studs and blocking securely.
- This method provides solid backing for drywall attachment along the entire corner length on both walls.
- Using Track Sections: Sometimes, track sections are used vertically or horizontally in conjunction with studs to form a strong corner.
The specific method chosen often depends on structural requirements and the desired ease of drywall attachment.
Drywalling Inside Corners with Metal Studs
Applying drywall to an inside corner framed with metal studs requires careful placement to ensure a smooth finish and proper backing.
According to the reference provided:
- The proper way to drywall an inside corner with metal stud framing is to slide the first sheet all the way into the inside corner and then fasten the last stud on the wall adjacent to the drywall.
- To accomplish this, you need to leave that last stud loose until the drywall sheet is positioned.
Here's a breakdown of the process based on this method:
- Frame the Corner: Erect your metal stud walls, framing the inside corner using one of the methods described above. Critically, ensure the stud directly adjacent to the corner on at least one of the intersecting walls is not rigidly fixed at the corner until the drywall goes up. It should be temporarily held or left loose enough to be adjusted.
- Install the First Sheet: Take the first sheet of drywall for one wall leading into the inside corner.
- Position the Sheet: Slide this sheet of drywall all the way into the inside corner, ensuring its edge is tight against the adjacent wall's framing.
- Secure the Loose Stud: With the drywall sheet now in place and butting into the corner, fasten the previously loose last stud on the adjacent wall (the one the drywall is butting against). This stud should now be snug against the back of the drywall sheet, providing support.
- Fasten the Drywall: Secure the drywall sheet to the metal studs on its wall using appropriate drywall screws.
- Install the Second Sheet: The drywall sheet on the adjacent wall will then butt up against the edge of the first sheet you just installed at the inside corner.
- Fasten the Second Sheet: Secure the second drywall sheet to the studs on its wall.
This method allows one sheet to fully occupy the corner space created by the framing, providing solid backing for the corner joint while allowing the adjacent sheet to butt cleanly against it.
Drywalling Outside Corners with Metal Studs
While not covered by the reference, drywalling an outside corner with metal studs typically involves:
- Overlap: Overlapping the drywall sheets at the corner. One sheet is extended slightly past the corner framing.
- Butt Joint: The second sheet is butted against the edge of the first sheet at the corner.
- Corner Bead: A metal or plastic corner bead is then applied over the drywall edge to create a sharp, durable outside corner profile before taping and finishing. The corner bead is fastened to the drywall and underlying studs.
By following these framing and drywall installation steps, you can successfully construct and finish corners using metal studs.
