I'm working on a shop that has metal studs and I want to hang a French cleat wall. In the past, I've attached things directly to the front of the studs, but this time I'd like it to be flush because I need to make cutouts for electrical outlets. If it stands off the wall, I would need to use extender boxes.
To reinforce the crests, I'm considering fastening a 2x4 where the top and bottom cleats will go, but I'm struggling to find a way to attach the 2x4s to the metal studs. I imagined some sort of L-shaped bracket that would fit under the 2x4 and attach to the studs, but I haven't found anything suitable. The closest I've come across is a deck tension tie, which doesn't seem ideal. Any suggestions for securely fastening the 2x4 to the metal studs?
2 Answers
When I'm putting backing into metal stud walls, I usually screw into the flat side of the stud without the flange. If it’s within the flange, I'd use a router or saw to create a cutout so it sits flush. Just be cautious when screwing through the flange into the wood to make sure the screws don’t poke out too much, but you might have to get creative if you can only access the exterior of the studs!
You could fill the steel stud with a piece of wood (maybe rip your 2x4s down to size) and then use toe or pocket screws to secure it from the sides. If you're already planning to inset the French cleats, removing drywall might not be an issue. Also, keep in mind that using fire-rated studs is a good idea since steel studs are often required where a fire rating is necessary.