What fasteners do I use to attach framing pieces together?
Most of our perimeter frames do not require fasteners for assembly; they are designed with an interference fit similar to the concept of Legos. For systems designed with a slip
Most of our perimeter frames do not require fasteners for assembly; they are designed with an interference fit similar to the concept of Legos. For systems designed with a slip fit and for placing all of the omega intermediate supports, screws or rivets can be used to attach framing pieces together. The general practice is to use #8 sheet metal screws first. If you are pre-drilling a pilot hole, then standard point sheet metal screws can be used. If you prefer not to pre-drill, then self-drilling screws can be used. Head size, style, and length will vary depending on the framing system, placement, and personal preference.
Pro Tips:
- Make sure that fastener heads do not interfere with clearances for installing other components and make sure protruding exposed screw points don’t present a safety hazard.
- Torque your drill down to about 5 or 6 to avoid stripping out your screw hole. Slowly increase the torque to find the ideal setting on your drill. If and when a hole is stripped out, go up to the next fastener size in the same hole (that’s why you typically start with a #8; it gives you the option to go to a #10 or even #12 if your technician is having a bad day).
The most common rivet sizes are 1/8” diameter with ¼” grip and 3/16 with a ¼” grip. The length of the grip may change depending on what you’re trying to accomplish.
A few framing systems with nylon omega joints require specific lengths of screws when attaching intermediate support assemblies.
- 140-25 Systems – A minimum 1-1/8 inch screws when using GFG240-25
- 150-25 Systems – A minimum 1-1/8 inch screws when using GFG250-25
- 150-45 Systems – A minimum 1-1/8 inch screws when using GFG250-45
- 130-25 Stopper System – A minimum 1-1/4 inch screws when using GBP240-25
- 150-45 Stopper System – A minimum 1-3/4 in screws when using GBP250-45
- 150-45 Thermal Break Stopper System – A minimum 1-3/4 in screws when using GBP250-45
- 150-50 Thermal Break System – A minimum 1-3/4 in screws when using GBP250-45
- 140-25 Thermal Break Systems – A minimum 1-1/8 inch and 1-1/4 inch maximum length screws when using GFGTT240-25
- 160-45 Thermal Break Systems – A minimum 1-1/8 inch and 1-1/4 inch maximum length screws when using GFGTT260-45
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