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Printreading for Residential and Light Commercial Construction
Reinforced headers are required in load-bearing walls. Headers are constructed with two equal-size C-shapes forming box beam or backto-back headers, or with one or two angle pieces that fit over the top track forming L-headers. See Figure 3-29. Box beam headers should be properly insulated before installation.
Non‑load-bearing interior partitions are generally constructed of lighter gauge metal studs. See Figure 3-30. When load‑bearing interior partitions are required, heavier gauge studs are used. Gypsum board is then applied using self-tapping screws.
Metal-Framed Headers Figure 3-29
TRACK
TRACK OR C-SHAPE
C-SHAPES
TRACK CRIPPLE STUD
TRACK
BOX BEAM TRACK
BACK-TOBACK C-SHAPES
CLIP ANGLE TRACK
CRIPPLE STUD
JACK STUD KING STUD
TRACK
BACK-TO-BACK
Figure 3-30. Interior partitions are framed with lighter gauge metal studs. L-HEADER
HEAD TRACK CRIPPLE STUD KING STUD
L-HEADER Figure 3-29. Box beam, back-to-back, or L-headers are installed above door and window openings.
Open web steel joists are often used in conjunction with metal framing systems and masonry construction. An open web steel joist is a structural steel member constructed with steel angles and bars that are used as chords with steel angles or bars extending between the chords at an angle. Open web steel joists provide structural support for floors and roofs of buildings, and allow passage and concealment of pipes, ducts, and electrical conduit within the depth of the joist. See Figure 3-31.