Metal Stud & Ceiling Systems

What we supply

• C studs and U tracksPartition framing in common widths.
• MF ceiling systemPrimary channels, ceiling sections, hangers and edge trims.
• Resilient barsTo improve sound separation on walls and ceilings.
• Deflection headsTo allow for floor and roof movement above partitions.
• Drywall and wafer screwsSelf-drilling screws for metal framing.

Sizes and specifications

Standard	BS EN 14195
Finish	Galvanised steel
Common stud widths	50, 70, 92 and 146 mm

Sizes and standards are typical for the UK market; exact figures depend on the manufacturer and are confirmed on your quote.

Common uses

• Office and commercial partitions
• Suspended plasterboard ceilings
• Acoustic walls
• Loft and basement fit-outs

Choosing metal studs and ceiling sections

Follow the system

Metal stud partitions and ceilings are designed as tested systems with specific boards, sections and screws. Order to the system specification, especially where fire or acoustic ratings apply.

Stud width and height

Taller walls need deeper studs or closer centres; the system maker's height tables show the limits.

Metal or timber?

Metal studs are straight, light and do not shrink or twist; timber is easier for fixing heavy items and is more familiar on domestic jobs.

Building regulations differ across the UK. In England, building work is checked against the Approved Documents, for example Part A for structure and Part L for energy efficiency, through your council's building control team or a registered building control approver. Wales has its own Approved Documents, including its own Part L for energy efficiency, and building control is handled by the local authority or a registered approver. In Scotland most building work needs a building warrant from the local authority, assessed against the Building Standards Technical Handbooks. In Northern Ireland building work follows the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland), with guidance in the Technical Booklets, and applications go to the council's building control team.

How it arrives on site

Sections come in bundles in long lengths; tell us about access for 3 m plus lengths. We agree the drop point and offload method when we price your order. Read more about how delivery works.

How much do you need?

A 5.4 m metal stud partition at 600 mm centres needs 10 studs and 10.8 m of track, plus boards and self-drilling screws. Taller walls may need deeper studs or closer centres; follow the system maker's tables.

Metal Stud & Ceiling Systems: questions

What is an MF ceiling?

A suspended plasterboard ceiling built from steel channels hung from the structure above, used to create a flat ceiling below an uneven soffit or to hide services.

Are metal studs better than timber?

They are straight, light and dimensionally stable. Timber is often easier for domestic jobs and for fixing heavy items. Both work well when designed properly.

What screws do metal studs need?

Self-drilling drywall screws for fixing boards to metal, and wafer-head screws for joining sections.

Can metal stud walls be fire rated?

Yes, when built as the tested system with the specified boards, insulation and fixings.

What sizes do metal studs come in?

Common widths are 50, 70, 92 and 146 mm, in lengths to suit wall heights.