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Question
QUESTION: WHAT IS THE RECOMMENDED SPACING FOR HORIZONTAL BRACING AND FOR SCREWS ON PLASTERBOARD?
ANSWER: Hello Savvas,
By "Plasterboard" I assume you mean "Drywall" or gypsum board. I hope you don't have the problem we are having in the USA when we imported Drywall from China. Seems that chemicals used in the manufacturing can radiate and cause corrosion to copper piping, electrical wiring, etc. It also has caused breathing problems for the occupants. Not a good product.
As for the horizontal bracing, usually at the joint or every 4 feet. Don't forget to install horizontal bracing in kitchens and bathrooms to accept the installation of cabinets. Also, you should provide bracing for plumbing lines - water supply (copper or plastic tubing) and drains smaller than 3".
As for the screws - they should be at least 12" on center along the edge, at all joints, and in the field at each vertical framing stud and at horizontal bracing. Use screws specified for drywall installation. Other types of screws may corrode and/or "pop" out. Depress the screw head about 1/16th below the paper line but try to avoid breaking the paper except at the point of penetration. This depression allows for taping and joint compound.
I hope this has been helpful.
Roger
Ask The Contractor
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: could U please describe the layout of metal studs at corners and ""T"" joints of drywall?
Hi Savvas,
Following is a web site address which may be very helpful to you. It seems to answer most questions regarding steel stud framing - corners, load bearing walls, blocking, etc. It's in Adobe Reader Format and you can print it out for reference. I think this would be more helpful than my trying to explain the solutions to your questions. I can't make drawings on this response page which would be the best way to show you the framing procedures.
Let me know if this booklet was helpful.
Go to:
http://www.toolbase.org/PDF/DesignGuides/BuildersSteelStudGuide.pdf
Thanks for the question
Roger
Ask The Contractor
askthecontractor@live.com
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Answers by Expert:
Roger Zona
Expertise
I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.
Experience
After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.
Organizations
Previously - NAHA
Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)
Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column
Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column
Education/Credentials
Michigan State University
University of Detroit
BS in Engineering
Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family.
I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit.
I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision.
I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.
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