I have a few walls to tear out and move in a commercial building next week. Is there anything quirky about demo with metal studs?
I’m assuming the sheetrock is ripped off and the tracks are unscrewed or is it better to simply use a big hammer? Are metal studs ever reused or is it a better idea to trash the studs and rebuild with new?
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Replies
I know about this! I've torn down thousands of feet of MS walls all over Seattle. Normally cut the drywall horzontally with a saw-zall, and then rip it down in ~4x4 sheets. I most often unscrew the studs from the track if the track is screwed to the grid ceiling, and either bash or un-screw in other conditions, depending on my mood.
It is actually easier and more fun than demo'ing wood construction
Everything is tossed.
Edited 2/8/2008 10:45 pm ET by McMark
Edited 2/8/2008 11:38 pm ET by McMark
I've watched steel stud demo being done during a Target remodel. Their tool of choice was essentially a mattock [or pick] with the broad end cut off. Several loud whacks on the joint twixt the stud and the track would eventually cause the screw to fail.
It would seem to me that the use of a screwdriver would be a bit less exertive. But what do I know? On the other hand, I've seen the same category of people use a claw hammer to remove screws.
These guys also cut live MC cable if it was in their way.
~Peter
I think McMark & I have chewed some of the same dirt.
Dealing with wood is a hobby in my garage, my jobs are 99% steel studs & concrete floors.
I don't remember ever seeing a steel stud being reused.
Most of the time the studs only have two screws one at the top & one at the bottom with the other side floating in the track held in place by sheetrock.
“The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing.” —Albert Einstein
Thanks guys. It's good to know what to expect!
Beer was created so carpenters wouldn't rule the world.
I'd go with the sawzall method too. Very quick cutting. You can go both horizontally and vertically if you want to make similar sized pieces.
I'd also bring a mattock or pick or big crow bar to pull the track up off the concrete. Just makes it easier with more leverage. You may want it for the top track too, if it's been shot into steel as is often the case.