DESIGN ALERT ON OLD METAL STUDS
ISSUE:
Reuse of existing metal studs.
BACKGROUND:
On a recent project, an A/E showed existing metal studs to be reused on
new
construction, without checking their condition.
DISCUSSION:
The A/E showed reuse of existing metal studs on new partitions to save cost. During
construction, it was found that some of these metal studs were rusted and others were
cut by the previous installation to allow conduit runs and plumbing lines. Evidently, the
A/E did not check the condition of these studs during design phase of the project. This
resulted in existing studs to be unusable for new partitions. A change order was issued
to provide new metal studs instead.
RECOMMENDATIONS/CONCLUSION:
1. Old rusted or cut metal studs would not provide adequate stability for new partitions
and must not be reused. A/E should check condition of existing studs in the field
especially the wet areas, and other areas with piping and conduit penetrations before
specifying their reuse.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFOR MATION:
Contact Satish Sehgal at 202.565.5032 in the Standards Service (187C).
6 September 1995
FM-187C-DA41
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