MetStructures Technical Manual

LIGHT GAUGE STEEL FRAMED STRUCTURES
TECHNICAL MANUAL
Version 1.0 | 09/18

Introduction to
MetStructures Limited formed We are a construction company providing Design,

Manufacturing and Installation services for a wide range of
in 2017 following decades of structures across many market sectors.
experience in the Hot Rolled and Our in-house teams are ready to support your project anywhere
Cold Formed Construction markets. in the UK and Ireland, providing a full consultation from
conception, design and pricing, offsite manufacturing and
panel assembly, installation and completion on site.
“Specialists in providing off site solutions We offer a wide scope of works including:
for Building Structures, reducing on • Hot Rolled Fabricated Steelwork • Stairs and Handrailing
site activities and improving safety, • Light Gauge Steel Framing • Mezzanines
programme, quality and cost.” • Flooring Systems • SFS
The following Technical Manual provides details of our Light Gauge Steel Framing system
specifically developed for the residential, hotel, care and student accommodation sectors.
The system has been fully assessed by the SCI and NHBC for structural designs up to 15 storeys
in accordance with BS EN 1993-1-3.
02 | www.metstructures.uk.com | 0121 389 1603

CONTENTS
1. SYSTEM PRINCIPLES 2.11 / Hot Rolled Steelwork 28
& ADVANTAGES 04 2.11.1 / Integration Within The Panel 29
2.11.2/ Free Standing Columns 29
1.1 / System Summary 04–05
2.11.3 / Beams Within Floors 30
1.2 / Intended Use & Range of Application 06 2.11.4 / Surface Coatings 30
1.3 / Building Engineering Physics 06–15 2.12 / Finishes 30
1.3.1 / Warm Frame & Rapid Dry 2.13 / Services 31
Envelope (RDE) 06–07
2.14 / Pods 32
1.3.2 / Fire Resistance 08
1.3.3/ Acoustic Performance 08–10
1.3.4 / Thermal Performance 10 3. STANDARD COMPONENTS 33
1.3.5 / Cladding 10–15
3.1 / Standard Cold Rolled Sections 33
Case Study / Hinton Road, Bournemouth 15
3.1.1 / Cold Rolled Parts MC Profile Range 33
1.4 / Project Services 16
3.1.2/ Cold Rolled Parts MU Profile Range 34
1.4.1 / Concept Design Support & Review 16
Cold Rolled Parts MU overbent
1.4.2/ Detailed Design 16
Profile Range 34
1.4.3 / Manufacture 17
3.1.3/ Cold Rolled Parts MA Profile Range 35
1.4.4 / Installation 17
3.1.4 / Cold Rolled Parts MT Profile Range 35
1.4.5 / Operation & Maintenance 17
1.5 / Project Lead Times 18

4. DESIGN PRINCIPLES 36
4.1 / Disproportionate Collapse 36

2. SYSTEM OVERVIEW 19
4.2 / Bracing & Frame Stability 36
2.1 / Design Life 19
4.3 / Load Paths & Load Tracing 36
2.2 / Maintenance 19
4.4 / Window/Door Opening Guidance 37
2.3 / Disposal 19
4.5 / Accuracy & Tolerances 37
2.4 / Sustainability 19
4.5.1 / Section Accuracy 37
2.5 / Foundations 20 4.5.2/ Site Tolerance 38
2.6 / Panels 20 4.5.3 / Frame Installation Tolerances 38
2.7 / Floors 21 4.5.4 / Follow-On Trade Tolerances 38
2.8 / Roofs 21
2.9 / Lifts 22 5. STANDARD DETAILS 39
2.9.1 / Lift Design Requirements 22
Detail Contents 39
2.10 / Stairs 23
Standard Details 40–74
2.10.1 / Basics 23–24
2.10.2/ Single Flight Arrangements 24
2.10.3 / Double Flight Arrangements 25
2.10.4 / Other Stair Arrangements 25
2.10.5 / Stair Attachment 26–27
2.10.6 / Hand Rails & Balustrades 27
0121 389 1603 | www.metstructures.uk.com | 03

1. SYSTEM PRINCIPLES
& ADVANTAGES
1.1 / SYSTEM SUMMARY
The MetStructures Framing System is a structural
solution for walls, floors and roofs formed from
light gauge steel shaped sections and
trapezoidal decking with concrete cover.
MetStructures profiles are 1.2mm to Load bearing light gauge steel framing
3.2mm in gauge, roll formed from is based on balloon construction
pre-coated galvanised coil. Sections providing separate storey height
are factory assembled into load frames. Vertical gravity loads from
Wall
bearing wall panels consisting of a roof and floors span onto load
‘U’ base track and ‘C’ vertical studs bearing walls down to supporting
set at regular centres with ledgers foundations or podia. Lateral Floor/
at head to suit the application. The wind loads applied to the external Roof
MetStructures system can be used to envelope are taken by roofs and floors
form structures up to a maximum of using plate action, then into braced Wall
fifteen storeys in height dependent walls or cores down to the supporting
upon loading, geometry and usage. foundation or podium. Figure 1.
Principles
of Balloon
Construction
This construction is most effectively

used within simple repetitive
structural wall arrangements
between storeys, regular floor
spans and direct load paths. More
complicated structures can also
be accommodated using transfer
members (e.g. hot rolled beams) or
structures for indirect load paths.
Vertical studs are assembled into

panels within the ‘U’ head and base
track. All joints are assumed to be
pinned for simple analysis. Panels are
braced with diagonal flat straps (as
required by design) and sheathing
board may be factory applied to the
external walls.
Figure 2. Example of Load-Bearing

Framing (boarding omitted for clarity)

1 | SYSTEM PRINCIPLES & ADVANTAGES
1.1 / Panels are bolted together

Continued on site through pre-punched
holes and either anchored to
the supporting foundation or
screw fixed to panels below. All
connections are designed and
checked for disproportionate
collapse tying requirements
derived from the intended
use and size of the building.
Temporary props are fitted for
stability during construction.
Floors are generally formed from

composite concrete decking
which is seated on the perimeter
profiles at the tops of the
load-bearing wall panels.
The deck is then temporarily
propped (if required) and secured
using self-piercing, self-drilling
screws. Reinforcement is laid
as per design requirements
for fire and disproportionate
collapse resistance. Mesh or fibre
reinforcement may be used to
minimise cracking of the slab.
Figure 3. Typical Profiles
Once the floor has adequately cured, construction of The roof may also be formed from composite concrete
the next level begins and loading out of the floor decking but can alternatively employ timber or light steel
with plasterboard / bathroom pods, etc. takes place. frame trusses or joists. In all instances, floors and roofs are
to provide adequate diaphragmatic resistance to distribute
Where joisted cassette floors are used they are formed in the lateral loads back to the buttressing side wall bracing
factory from deeper ‘C’ sections at regular centres with ‘U’ systems.
profile end tracks and noggins as required to prevent twist
and lateral movement. A working platform of minimum
18mm OSB is provided. The joists are designed with pinned
end connections and effective lengths dependent
upon the restraints available from
finishes and noggins.
Figure 4. Wall and Floor

Construction (Side Fixed)
Isometric

1.2 / INTENDED USE & RANGE OF APPLICATION
The system is suitable • Residential
for use on most • Student Accommodation
construction projects • Hotels & Hospitality
• Retirement Living
including but not
• Dwelling Houses
limited to: • Government
The system’s application is currently limited to an absolute When such items are to be built in a cold frame environment
maximum of fifteen storeys. Depending on the structural (uninsulated or exposed to possible water ingress), special
requirements and building type, lower limits may be considerations such as additional protective coatings may
applicable. Additionally, as a building product, elements of be required and the lifetime of the construction reduced
the framing system can be used for special constructions in accordance with the guidance given by the SCI P262
such as features, bulkheads and soffits. document (The Steel Construction Institute, 2009),
BS EN ISO 12944-2:1998 (BSI, 1998) and
BS EN ISO 9223:2012 (BSI, 2012).
1.3 / BUILDING ENGINEERING PHYSICS

The MetStructures framing system Building engineering physics and fire resistant design
requirements are readily integrated to suit each application.
may be used within a wide range This ensures that the MetStructures framed building meets
the ratings outlined by the client specification and building
of building applications. regulations for environmental performance, user comfort
and safety.
1.3.1 / WARM FRAME & RAPID DRY ENVELOPE (RDE)
Internal lining boards (vapour check and

fire restraint boards by specification)
MetStructures steel studs. Mineral wool

insulation by others to specification
requirements
Factory fitted external sheathing board
Brick-tie channels fixed to studs through

insulation and boards
External insulation
External facing brickwork
Figure 5.
Indicative warm frame wall build-up
1.3.1 / The cold rolled sections in To achieve this and to keep the Where the steel is installed in a cold
Continued the stud and track system are frame warm as well as avoiding cold frame environment (low risk of water
galvanised with 20μm zinc bridging, insulation is applied to the ingress, some risk of condensation),
coating. Its intended use is external face of the steel. The amount this reduces to 50-60 years.
of insulation that is applied to the See extract on following page from
to be within a ‘warm frame
outside of the frame is dependent SCI Publication P262 (The Steel
environment’, i.e. the steel is to on the U-Value that is required to be Construction Institute, 2009).
always be fully enclosed within achieved and designed to avoid the
the warm envelope of the façade. risk of interstitial condensation (to
architect’s specification). Assuming
the steel is maintained within a warm
frame environment, current industry
guidance is that a design life of 250
years can be expected (The Steel
Construction Institute, 2009).
Design life of galvanised steel sections in common building applications
Product application Environmental conditions Predicted design life
Walls and floors in warm frame applications No risk of water ingress or condensation 250 years
Warm internal environment
Non-load bearing stud partitions 250 years
and no risk of water ingress
Infill external walls in multi-storey buildings Warm frame and no risk of water ingress 250 years
Roof structures (insulated) Low risk of condensation 200 years
Suspended ground floors Low risk of water ingress;
100 years
(with over-site membrane) some risk of condensation
Roof structures (uninsulated) Some risk of condensation 100 years
Purlins and side rails Low risk of condensation;
60 years
supporting metal cladding some dust and pollution
Low risk of water ingress;
Sub-frames to over-cladding panels 60 years
some risk of condensation
Suspended ground floors Low risk of water ingress;
50 years
(without over-site membrane) higher risk of condensation
Note: All values are for Z275 Figure 6. Extract from P262
(total weight of zinc coating on both surface = 275g/m2) - Durability of Light Steel Framing
The BRE Report “Thermal Insulation: continue 150mm below the base may be required to ensure the
Avoiding Risks” (BRE REP 262, 2002) rail of the steel wall to minimize longevity of the steel.
discusses aspects of insulations thermal bridging. Insulation with
relevant to external light steel frame an integral facing on one side only, Openings for windows, doors, flues,
walls. A vapour control layer should e.g. a foil facing, should have the vents, etc. are formed by design
be provided unless a condensation facing on the cavity side. The facing within the framed panels and the
risk analysis is carried out. This should not be used as the vapour weights, position and connections
should be fixed on the warm side control layer. Service pipes, conduits, are considered in the structural
of the wall insulation and should etc. within walls should be on the calculations and drawings.
cover the external wall including warm side of the insulation. Design
The system adheres to the principles
base rails, head rails, studs and lintel and specification of the wall build-
of Rapid Dry Envelope (RDE) where
and cill reveals. The vapour control up beyond the steel frame is the
the building is made watertight
layer should be of 500g polyethylene responsibility of the architect or other
quickly and to a high standard to
or vapour control plasterboard as nominated specialist. In applications
release works on site for internal
recommended in the NHBC 6.10 -D6 where the steel is not in a warm frame
trades.
(NHBC, 2018). Insulation should construction, special considerations

1.3.2 / FIRE RESISTANCE
As cold formed steel members are non-combustible The requirements for fire protection vary by project
but have no significant inherent fire resistance they and by application of the system. The client team
are dependent on the through-wall components to must determine the requirements in line with
provide the structure’s fire protection. applicable regulations.
Fire resistance of light gauge steel resistance to relevant codes of to be fire protected to achieve the
systems is provided by single or practice. Typically, over 90 minutes’ required rating.
multiple layers of boarding fixed resistance may be achieved for each
to the flange of the studs or joists element using multiple layers of Cavity stopping systems should also
This may be either fixed directly 15mm boards. be employed as required by the
or via secondary resilient bars. relevant building regulations.
Manufacturers of such boarding Fire resistance of the composite
concrete deck floor is provided Further details may be sought from
systems have tested their boards
by reinforcing the concrete with SCI Technical Information Sheet
to protect light steel frame systems
adequate cover. Supporting channels ED016 (The Steel Construction
for insulation, integrity and load
at the head of the walls also need Institute, 2012).
1.3.3 / ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE
Part E of the building regulations defines the Acoustic performance must additionally satisfy
minimum requirements for floors and walls that any regional guidance and suitability requirements
separate one dwelling from another, between which must be defined by the design team at the
internal walls and floors from another dwelling or start of the project.
communal space.
Approved •T
he use of ‘Robust Details’ (Robust Details Ltd, 2014)
This method relies on specific defined build-ups provided by Robust details to
document E
demonstrate compliance based on known combinations.
describes two
methods of •P
re-completion testing
This method tests elements of the building on site (such as separation of walls and
demonstrating floors) prior to handover of the building to demonstrate a test compliance against
compliance: target values.
The MetStructures Framing Framed construction relies on The desired acoustic level can be
System standard details have been boarding performance as well as attained via the addition of layers of
developed with the guidance of the structural isolation to achieve a good board as well as some bespoke layers
Robust Details in mind however it acoustic performance. Between designed to satisfy only acoustic
is envisaged that pre-completion dwellings, this may be achieved issues such as resilient bars to reduce
testing will be required on all by using twin skin walls or other sound transfer, acoustic matt or
schemes. Additionally, the project enhanced wall constructions. specialist backing boxes.
acoustician should review all
details for compliance in advance of
construction.

1.3.3 / Composite concrete decks may either be designed with At junctions between compartments, flanking insulation must
Continued adequate thickness to meet minimum mass requirements be provided to prevent sound transfer through the cavity.
or with a requirement for an acoustic floor build-up to be Insulation provided 600mm above and below floors, and at
provided on top depending on the project requirements. either side of walls is good practice.
Internal lining board

C Stud
to provide suitable
fire protection to
primary frame
by others C Stud
Inter-stud
insulation
by others
External sheathing board
External
insulation
Bricktie channel
Brickwork
by others Figure 7.
Flanking detail
across party wall
Progressive collapse
tie by design
Floor finishes to Fire Reinforcement

Architects details & progressive collapse
required (by design)
Non Load bearing

Profiled fire stop deck support
by others
Fire stop to
supporting
channel
by others
Inter-stud insulation
by others (above and
below ceiling line)
C Stud
to provide suitable fire
protection by others
Ceiling by others
LOAD NON LOAD

BEARING SIDE BEARING SIDE
Figure 8.
Twin-party wall to separating floor interface detail

1.3.3 / ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE
Continued
The following is presented as guidance only, the build ups shown are indicative and should be checked
with boarding suppliers’ data on a project specific basis by the principal designer.
Load-bearing walls:
dB Rating Wall build-up
25dB 1 x 12.5mm gypsum-based lining board
30dB 2 x 12.5mm gypsum-based lining board
60dB 2 x 12.5mm gypsum-based lining board on separate metal frames with quilt in cavity (i.e. twin party wall)
Table 3. Indicative wall build-up acoustic performances. SCI Technical Information Sheet ED015 (The Steel Construction Institute, 2012).
1.3.4 / THERMAL PERFORMANCE

COLD
All stud and track sections should be maintained
within the ‘warm frame’ of the building, with
insulation wrapped around the outside.
Furthermore, specific thermal and dew point calculations WARM
should be carried out (generally available free of charge
from the insulation supplier) to ensure that heat transfer
across the façade is limited to an acceptable value and
that no condensation will form within the stud zone
during normal operation of the building. There are various
methods of establishing thermal performance of buildings
which are based on either elemental methods – by
calculating U values of a wall construction – or on a whole
building assessment e.g. SAP or NHER.
WARM
The thermal performance of the system also depends on
the cladding that is being utilised and the positioning of the
insulation. The requirements are covered by part L of the
buildings regulations – Conservation of fuel and fire.
Cold bridging across the façade at interfaces, such as

balconies, must also be avoided by application of WARM
structural thermal breaks.
1.3.5 / CLADDING
All buildings are designed on a project-specific • Traditional Single Skin Facing Brick/Blockwork
basis for which detailed structural calculations and • Direct Applied and Cavity Insulated Render
drawings are produced. Systems
In all applications, the system is sheathed to the internal • Board Based Cladding Systems
face with plasterboard to the architect’s specification • Lightweight Metal Panels
and to the outside with factory applied sheathing board,
additional insulation boards are further site applied subject • Timber Cladding
to specification requirement. Façade treatments are • Insulated Panel Systems
considered and typically consist of but are not limited to: • Brick Slip Systems

1.3.5.1 / TYPICAL WALL BUILD-UPS
The following details provide an illustration of the typical facade treatments which may be applied to the MetStructures
framing system. Further cladding finishes may be applied; for more information contact MetStructures.
All applied finishes

to be in line with
specification Lining boards
requirements
Insulation
Render Finish
Insulation
Concrete Floor
Intumescent
Cavity Fire Barrier
Blockwork
Brick Tie Channel

Lining boards
Brick Tie & Insulation
Breather Membrane Figure 9.

Rendered
External Sheathing Board Blockwork
Ceiling Line
Lining boards
Brick tie
Insulation Insulation
Cavity tray and weep hole Concrete Floor
Cavity fire barrier
Brickwork
Brick/block tie channel
Lining boards
& insulation
External Sheathing Board
Breather Membrane Ceiling line

Figure 10.
Facing Brick
All applied finishes to be in line with specification requirements

TYPICAL WALL BUILD-UPS, Continued
1.3.5.1 /
Brick Slip System Lining Boards
Insulation
Vertical Support Rail Concrete Floor
Intumescent Cavity
Fire Barrier
External Sheathing
Board
Helping Hand Supports

Lining Boards
& Insulation
Breather Membrane
Insulation Ceiling Line

Figure 11.
Brick Slip
Insulation Lining Boards

Insulation to be in line with
Cavity Render System specification
requirements
Cavity Concrete Floor
Fire Batt
Cavity Fire Barrier
External Sheathing
Board Lining Boards
& Insulation
Figure 12.
Breather Membrane Insulated Render
Ceiling Line
with Cavity


1.3.5.1 /
Metal Rainscreen Cladding Lining Boards
Insulation
Insulation Concrete Floor

Vertical Support Rail
Intumescent
Cavity Fire Barrier

Lining Boards
& Insulation
Breather Membrane Ceiling Line

Figure 13.
Metal
Rainscreen

to be in line with
specification
requirements Lining Boards
Insulation
Insulation Concrete Floor

Intumescent Cavity
Fire Barrier
High Pressure Laminated

Cladding Panel
Lining Boards
& Insulation
External Sheathing Board Figure 14

Board
Ceiling Line Rainscreen
Breather Membrane

1.3.5.1 /
Timber Cladding
Lining Boards
Insulation
Concrete Floor
Intumescent Cavity
Fire Barrier
Insulation
Lining Boards
& Insulation
Breather Membrane Ceiling Line

Figure 15.
Timber Cladding
Insulation

to be in line with
Light Weight Stone specification
Cladding requirements
Lining Boards
Insulation
Concrete Floor
Intumescent Cavity
Fire Barrier

Lining Boards
& Insulation
Figure 16.
Stone tile
Breather Membrane


1.3.5.1 /

to be in line with
specification
requirements
Lining Boards
Terracotta Cladding
Insulation
Concrete Floor
Intumescent Cavity
Fire Barrier
Insulation

Lining Boards
& Insulation
Figure 17.
External Sheathing
Board Terracotta tile
Breather Membrane
CASE STUDY: HINTON ROAD, BOURNEMOUTH
• Student accommodation
• Light gauge steel frame with composite concrete and metal deck floor slabs
• Light gauge steel roof cassettes with OSB3 boarding
• Gross internal floor area 2740m2
Features of the construction and site:

• Bay feature windows
• Limited site access for construction
• Large floor spans achieved using hot rolled steel

1.4 / PROJECT SERVICES
MetStructures can assist with your Early sub-contractor involvement from

MetStructures helps to ensure the smooth running
structural frame requirements of projects, enabling the system’s features to be
right from conception to best applied to the design in hand.
completion on site. MetStructures offer the following services:
1.4.1 / CONCEPT DESIGN SUPPORT & REVIEW
Based on the architect’s drawings, Specific details can also be assessed stage to enable assessment of the
MetStructures will review the (e.g. architectural features) to develop groundworks requirements.
architectural intent for the building structural solutions which work with
and provide an indicative structural the system. The MetStructures team can attend
scheme to demonstrate how the design team meetings to assist with
building might be formed in the The scheme can then be quoted, the development of the frame design.
system. This will identify the required and the MetStructures site team can
load-bearing walls and column assess the logistics requirements.
locations etc and indicative sizing of Subject to agreement, foundation
key members. loads may be provided at this
1.4.2/ DETAILED DESIGN
Detailed design can commence once the architectural The construction issue intent drawings are then assessed
design has reached a frozen construction issue. At against any previous schemes to ensure any changes are
this point, the MetStructures team will allocate a captured and understood. A detailed engineering scheme is
dedicated project engineer and designer and a design then produced, and final foundation/podium gravity loads
commencement meeting to review the scheme and are calculated to enable the project engineer to complete
details should be arranged. This meeting should also be their designs. The MetStructures engineer will complete an
used to discuss phasing and build sequence. analysis for the scheme and design all structural members
in accordance with relevant design codes. Full calculations
are also produced which can be issued to building control or
It is critical to the success of the project to have nominated checking engineers. We will work with the design
adequate information to design the structure at team to ensure elements such as service routes, etc. are
accommodated where possible.
this stage – although the project may be weeks
from site, key decisions on the load paths and At the same time, the MetStructures design team begin work
structure of the building are made up-front producing an accurate and data-rich Building Information
which would be costly to change at later stages. Model (BIM). Once the engineer’s specifications have been
Information required includes sub-contractor included, general arrangement drawings are taken from the
packages such as the lift interfaces and curtain model and issued for design team approval.
wall support requirements. While the approval process is underway, the designers
continue to model all of the detailed connections of
each member and further enrich the model ready for
manufacture. Design team comments are then incorporated,
and construction GA’s are issued.
Once the model has been thoroughly QA checked, for each

phase, the fabrication data is issued to the MetStructures
rolling mills and panel assembly drawings are created.

1.4.3 / MANUFACTURE
Working to the agreed build sequence wall panels, Each panel is thoroughly checked for dimensional accuracy,
accessories and any supplementary steelwork are correctness and quality before being signed off for delivery
manufactured and assembled within the MetStructures to the project site.
associated works.
1.4.4 / INSTALLATION
MetStructures work with the corner of the building. Wall panels are The walls are generally pre-boarded
main contractor’s site team placed, plumbed, temporary propped in the factory and therefore, by fitting
to ensure a successful build anchored into place and bolted to the windows, a weather-tight shell is
program. Tight site logistics can adjacent panels. Site fitted beams and provided to allow first fix of follow on
columns are bolted in to the adjacent trades while the upper floors are still
be catered for with just in time
columns and walls. Walls and beams being built.
deliveries, but it is preferable come pre-fitted with ledger angles for
to store panels and decking on the decking which is placed between The MetStructures engineer and
site. Craneage is required to lift elements and screwed into place. designer will visit site as required to
panels, beams, columns and Temporary propping is placed and ensure the structure is being built in
decking into place. fixed before reinforcement is then laid accordance with the design and any
as required. Once fully checked and site reports produced will be made
Once the slab has been checked to signed off, the slab can be poured. available to the client.
tolerance and handed over, the panel Once adequately cured, the next floor
erection begins with the perimeter can begin.
walls, generally working from one

1.4.5 / OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
The system requires minimal maintenance as Any damage to the frame should be reported to
long as it is enclosed within the warm frame of MetStructures immediately for structural assessment to
the building. ensure a safe structure. This includes fire damage.
As such, the building façade should be regularly checked for

any deterioration or damage, as should the internal linings
of the structure. Any damage should be repaired as soon as
possible in line with system supplier details.

1.5 / PROJECT LEAD TIMES
0 STRATEGIC
MetStructures operate a typical 12-14 week
DEFINITION preconstruction period, though lead times for
design, supply and installation vary from project
to project and are dependent on both size and
1 PREPARATION
AND BRIEF
complexity. The following programme example
based on the RIBA plan of work is given for
typical guidance only and should not be read
or used as a project specific programme.
2 CONCEPT
DESIGN
ARCHITECT
PROJECT ENGINEER
MAIN CONTRACTOR
3 DEVELOPED
DESIGN
Design Support
• Load Path Checks
Estimating
• Pricing
2–4
• Foundation Loads • Outline Programme
• Span Checks • Warranties WEEKS
Design Works Project Programme
4 TECHNICAL
DESIGN
• General Arrangements
• Lifts & Stairs
• Details
• Start on Site Dates
• Delivery Plan
• Panel Sequencing
8–12
• Sections • Follow on Trades
• Hot Rolled Steel WEEKS
• Structural Calculations
• CDM Compliance
• Approvals
5 CONSTRUCTION
Site Checks
• Foundation Checks VARIES
• Light Steel Framing Checks
6 HANDOVER
AND CLOSE
OUT O&M Manual
1–2
• Replacement
• Modification WEEKS
7 IN USE

2 | SYSTEM OVERVIEW
2. SYSTEM OVERVIEW
DESIGN LIFE
2.1 / 2.2 / MAINTENANCE
With reference to the publication Maintenance of the framing system during
‘P262 Durability of Light Steel Framing in construction is possible with a visual inspection
Residential Building’ (The Steel Construction of the sections and it is highly recommended
Institute, 2009) and when the framing is fully that any water present on the sections during
insulated in a ‘Warm Frame Environment’, construction be fully removed before sheathing
the design life of the sections may be up to boards are applied.
250 years as long as water ingress is fully
Post construction inspections cannot normally be
prevented and the structure is correctly
done visually without damage to finishes and intrusive
maintained. inspections may not be appropriate during the life
The durability of zinc-based coatings is a function time of the building. However, it is recommended that
of duration of wetness and composition of the inspections of both the interior and exterior of the
atmosphere. When the structure is built to the building be made on an annual basis and as part of a
required standards, properly ventilated and wider building maintenance strategy with particular
maintained, moisture is not permitted to access the regard to any damage that may affect the integrity or
galvanised light gauge steel through either direct performance of the sections including but not limited to:
contact or humidity (interstitial condensation).
•C
racking of internal plasterboard or external finishes
The correct specification and application of
façade treatments, cavity ventilation/closing •D
amage to external finishes from impact that
products, vapour control and breather membranes, exposes the steel frame
plasterboards, insulation and thermal breaks mean •M
odifications to the building that expose or change
there should be no risk to the framing from contact the framing system
with any moisture that presents a risk to the integrity
of the zinc coating. •A
reas of water damage (particularly around gutters,
penetrations & down pipes)
• V isual staining
•E
vidence of rust
2.3 / DISPOSAL 2.4 / SUSTAINABILITY

All steel sections can be fully reused or recycled Recycling of steel is an efficient and widely
on decommissioning of the building. A competent completed process. At end of the buildings
structural engineer should be engaged to provide a working life MetStructures framing systems
disassembly or demolition plan. can be 100% recycled and reprocessed into
new structural steel components.
In general terms, the system can be deconstructed by
reversal of the construction process: When appropriately applied to schemes with
environmental targets to achieve, the MetStructures
•O
nce finishes have been adequately removed, roof system can be incorporated to building designs
cassette panels can be unbolted from the structure and with low or zero carbon ratings and achieve BREEAM
lifted off. Holes may be cut out of the OSB decking to allow grades of up to Excellent. Utilising modern methods
slinging chains to loop around the joists for lifting. of construction and offsite assembly techniques
•C
oncrete roofs/floors will need to be cut into segments, waste is also reduced, further enhancing
have their disproportionate collapse ties cut and have sustainable credentials.
suitable anchor points fitted to them before they can be
unbolted and lifted off.
•W
all panels will then be able to be unbolted from adjacent
panels and have the screw connections removed from
their base before being lifted off.

2.5 / FOUNDATIONS
The steel framed structure can commence once If the accuracy of the ground floor slab or support
the foundation/podium slab is fully installed, the structure cannot be guaranteed within required
concrete has reached its required design strength, tolerances, then a ring beam should be installed
has been inspected and modified (if required) to an by others. See tolerance section 4.5.2.
acceptable line and level (refer to section 4.5) and
handed over by the slab design engineer.
2.6 / PANELS
The vertical studs are typically 100mm width, with Figure 18.
Panel erection
varying gauges depending upon loading conditions,
and placed at 300, 400 or 600mm centres.
Noggins at mid-span may also be a requirement to reduce
minor axis buckling. All the studs are tied together with
horizontal base and head members. Bracing straps are to be
fixed to certain wall panels to give racking resistance. Once
SSL
the ground floor walls have been positioned, plumbed,
propped and fixed, the flooring system can be installed and
will restrain the top of the walls.
Openings within the wall panels for windows and doors etc.
are formed by reinforcing the jamb studs as required (either
using stronger sections, ‘boxing’ with tracks or doubling up
on members) and providing stud and track arrangements
as lintels and cills.

2 | SYSTEM OVERVIEW
FLOORS
2.7 /
The flooring system may

consist of either composite
concrete decking or joisted
floor cassettes. The floor system
is supported on the face of
internal and external walls and/
or beams in most instances but
may also run over the top of such
elements. Once the floor system
has been fully installed, it can be
used as a safe working platform,
loaded out and the next level
wall panels can be erected.
The composite concrete deck floor
system consists of a CMF MetFloor
decking profile which is laid between
supporting profiles which are factory
bolted to each load bearing wall.
The ends of the decking are crushed
to avoid any requirement for
closer angles.
The lightweight galvanised joisted

floor system consists of steel joists,
typically at 300mm, 400mm, or
600mm centres and can vary in depth
dependant on spans and loading
conditions. Boarding (to architect’s
specification and required to act as
a diaphragm) should be fitted to the
top of the cassette using the more
onerous of the board manufacturer’s
specification or 4.8mm diameter
screws at a maximum of 300mm
centres to provide diaphragmatic
action (depending on the board).
Figure 19. Completed concrete slab
2.8 / ROOFS
Typically, there are three types of roofing systems Once the top floor wall panels have been positioned,
used with the system – composite concrete deck, plumbed, propped and fixed the roof system can be
steel joisted and timber truss - each of which installed and will restrain the top of the walls. Where
are supported on internal and external walls design of roof trusses is provided by others, they must be
made aware that roof must provide a structural diaphragm
and/or beams.
between buttressing walls.

2.9 / LIFTS
The system can accommodate most lifts including Lifting eyes are to be supplied, installed and
hydraulic and traction systems. The MetStructures commissioned by others.
1100
frame will provide the shaft and lifting beam / lifting
Lift shafts are formed using standard load-bearing wall
slab (if applicable) and connection points for the
panels spanning floor to floor. On the door side(s), an
guide rail mechanisms. Fire protective boarding can opening for the door is provided which may include a PFC
Note: Toe board by 450
be factory applied locally behind the connection at head to provide a fixing point for the lift door mechanism.
others as required SSL
points for the guide rails.
Fire Mastic
2 Layers of 12mm external

sheathing board factory fitted
to lift shaft wall panel
Clear shaft width
Steel spacer
Clear shaft depth allowing
for dry lining boards &
unistruts
P1001-B3 Unistrut
or similar approved
Figure 20. Plan view of typical lift shaft MetStructures

wall construction
41
Internal lining board to

provide suitable fire protection
to primary frame by others
Figure 21. Guide rail connection point
2.9.1 / LIFT DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
All designs for lift shafts rely • Setting out of and loading applied to guide rail attachment points
on early receipt of the lift • Setting out of and loading applied to lifting connections
manufacturer’s requirements.
• Required clear opening dimensions of the shaft
For standard counter-
balanced traction lifts, the key • Setting out of the door openings and door connection points
information required is: • Any requirements for the door threshold (cutting back of screed etc)
• Confirmation of deflection limit (onerous deflection requirements may be
accommodated)
For other types of lift, the requirements may vary and early dialogue between the
lift designer and MetStructures design team is critical.
In order to set out the studs, confirmation of the boarding requirements to the
inside of the shaft is also required from the architect.

2 | SYSTEM OVERVIEW
2.10 / STAIRS
2.10.1 / BASICS
MetStructures can supply and fit steel, precast or timber stair units, Stairs may be in a variety of configurations
designed and supplied by specialists. The frame design will allow including single flight, double-flights
provision for stairs by means of clear openings and supporting with half landings or more complex
beams where required. arrangements with quarter landings etc.
In all configurations, where stair voids are

adjacent to external walls or other voids within
the floor slab, a stiffening beam may be required
to restrain the wall panels against lateral loads.
Figure 22.
Typical stair
arrangements

2.10.1 / BASICS
Continued
Hot rolled section Hot rolled section Stiffener plate

stiffener by design stiffener by design by design
Figure 23.
Wall stiffeners adjacent
to voids
Where stairs are supplied by others, the stair stair prior to pouring the slab may be preferable
designer must provide details of the loading which and should be discussed with the initial phasing
the stairs will apply back to the primary frame. requirements.
Detailing to avoid the requirement to install the
2.10.2 / SINGLE FLIGHT

ARRANGEMENTS
For single flight stairs, the frame

will provide a clear opening for
the stair and an edge beam to
Support at head
bolt the stair.
and base of flight
Figure 24.
Single flight stair
support arrangement

2 | SYSTEM OVERVIEW
For double-flight arrangements, the stair may
2.10.3 / DOUBLE FLIGHT either include the half landings or these can be
ARRANGEMENTS provided as part of frame.
Support at
head and
base of flight
Support for
integral half
landing
Figure 25. Double flight stair support arrangement
For more complex arrangements, the MetStructures frame will generally

2.10.4 / OTHER STAIR trim out the overall stair opening and provide supporting angles off the
ARRANGEMENTS surrounding walls to support the stair. The stair must be designed to
span between these without the need for cantilevering support beams
etc. There may be multiple options for support positioning as shown in
Figure 26 and therefore agreement with the stair manufacturer must be
sought as early as possible in the design.
Figure 26. Complex stair support options

STAIR
2.10.5 /
Design of the connection of the stair back to the primary frame is the
responsibility of the stair designer and must be coordinated with the
ATTACHMENT MetStructures frame design. Particular consideration to the sequence
of stair attachment and concrete pour should be made where floors
are concrete.
The following details are indicative only:
Floor build up as
Fixing method for stair to trimmer specified by architect
beam to be confirmed by
stair manufacturer
Joisted cassette
by MetStructures
Plate welded to trimmer beam

for end joist to fix into
Stair trimmer beam by

MetStructures Designed on
project specific basis
Figure 27.
Stair to joisted landing
Figure 28.
Stair to concrete landing
Fixing method for stair to

trimmer beam to be Composite structural
confirmed with decking cast after
stair manufacturer stair installation

MetStructures Designed on Support plate welded to
project specific basis underside of trimmer beam

Fixing method for stair to trimmer MetStructures Designed on
beam to be confirmed with project specific basis
stair manufacturer
Composite structural decking

cast after stair installation
Support plate welded to

underside of trimmer beam

2 | SYSTEM OVERVIEW
Internal lining board to Met - MB100120 strap fixed

provide suitable fire protection to stud flange to shutter slab
to primary frame by others MetFloor metal deck
by others
with fibre reinforced concrete
tie by design
Profiled fire stop required Fire Reinforcement
& progressive collapse
50
Support by MetStructures
Fire stop to supporting bolted to flange of studs
channel
Note: Teks cut off by
others to allow fitting
of boards
150 (min)
Figure 29. Stair to supporting wall
If not within the MetStructures supply package, the contracted stair designer must
provide details of the loading which the stairs will apply back to the primary frame.
2.10.6 / HAND RAILS & BALUSTRADES

Balustrading may be fixed back to walls adjacent to Where cantilever balustrades are required, they
the stair. Where it is not possible to directly fix to the must be identified to the MetStructures design
studs within the wall, the wall should be patressed team so that adequate support provisions can
to facilitate the connection. be included within the frame.

2.11 / HOT ROLLED STEELWORK
Where spans, loads or connections exceed the capacity of the Hot rolled sections may either be
cold rolled components the design can be supplemented with hot assembled into the panels within the
rolled steel elements which are easily integrated, all of which are factory or loose fit on site.
supplied as part of MetStructures’ package.
Beam connection End plate

perpendicular to wall
Beam
Studs
Beam connection Stud End plate

parallel to wall
Beam
Post
Partial depth beam
connection
Beam
Partial depth fin plate
Connection by design

2 | SYSTEM OVERVIEW
2.11.1 / INTEGRATION WITHIN THE PANEL
Generally, 100mm deep sections can

be assembled within the panels –
SHS or RHS columns being the most
typical example. Connections from
the column to the supported element
is typically made by use of a fin plate.
Where columns are integrated into

the panel, end plates are provided to
allow floor to floor connections. The
columns are also bolted into the head
and base channels of the panel:
Figure 30.
Typical base detail for
pre-panelised column
2.11.2 / FREE STANDING COLUMNS
Columns which are not Connection by design

integrated into the panel Stud Stud
must be tied in to the
frame.
To avoid fouling the base

plates with the adjacent SHS/RHS
wall panels, angles are Post
typically welded to the
columns in order to
provide this connection:
Figure 31. Site fitted column attachment to wall panels
The column should also be tied in to the floor, normally by use of the connection to
the supported beam.

BEAMS WITHIN
2.11.3 /
In both joisted cassette and composite concrete deck floor systems,
hot rolled beams can normally be set with top of steel at structural
FLOORS slab level in order to minimise downstands into the service void.
Fire protection required around

all principal structural elements
Figure 32.
Beam with TOS = SSL
Where no finishes are available to Indicative beam depths can be provided as part of the design approval process in
hide the exposed elements, beams order to ensure adequate space for services. Where absolutely essential, service
may be lowered by 50mm in order slots may be able to be designed into the beam webs to allow passing of services
to run the concrete over. however this is a costly option and should be avoided if at all possible.
Where beams or columns are required outside of the lined zones, specific fire protection detailing may be required.
This may be achieved by either boarding or intumescent painting the hot-rolled steel elements.
2.11.4 / SURFACE COATINGS

Guidance from BS EN ISO 12944-2 (BSI, 1998) and BS EN ISO 9223 (BSI, 2012) should be followed to classify the
environmental exposure category and determine a suitable coating. Most sections are within the warm frame
of the structure and therefore do not require substantial protection for the construction phase.
Where hot rolled elements are used externally, a more robust protection system must be employed and junctions between the
warm frame and the external element must include suitable thermal isolation.
2.12 / FINISHES
Once the structural frame, boarding, roof finishes, cedar, insulated panels and brick slip among others.
windows and doors have been installed the Masonry finishes are generally supported at podium or
envelope will be water-tight, so the services and foundation level and the frame provides lateral restraint
internal and external finishes can begin. only however, in certain instances, masonry may be
supported by project-specific agreement and design.
This removes the external cladding from the critical path.
A variety of external claddings can be applied to the Further information on finishes can be found in
system including masonry, render, terracotta rainscreen, section 1.3.4/ Cladding.

2 | SYSTEM OVERVIEW
2.13 / SERVICES
The system can accommodate Joisted floors/roofs
service penetrations
Holes in the joist webs can be punched up to 60% of the joist depth.
throughout. General Vertical holes through floor panels can be trimmed out during the design process.
guidance on the size of such
penetrations is provided Wall Panels
below however each project’s Holes in the stud webs can be punched up to 60% of the web depth.
requirements are assessed at Penetrations for vent pipes etc. through wall panels can be accommodated early on in
the design stage. the design stage so the studs can be positioned to miss the penetrations.
GUIDANCE FOR RULES ON CUTTING:

B C E C B
A
F
D
Dimensional The following rules should be followed Service Hole Constraints

when drilling, punching or cutting holes:
Constraints These rules limit the size of hole
A Depth of member that can be placed within a
SCI Publication 402 – Light
Steel Framing in Residential B Distance from edge of hole to end of section, cutting into sections can
Construction (Section 9) gives section B ≥ 1.5 x A reduce the structural capacity
an approximate guide to the C Clear distance between holes C ≥ A of the member. Always seek
maximum sizes and spacing professional advice before cutting
D Diameter of circular hole edges D ≤ 0.6 x A
of service penetrations in light a structural member.
E Width of elongated service E ≤ 3 x F
gauge steel sections.
F Depth of elongated service F ≤ 0.4 x A Gromits to be applied to all holes.
Composite concrete decks

Small holes (up to 300mm square)
can generally be either core
drilled or shuttered and cut away
without additional reinforcement
or support.
Larger holes may require additional
reinforcement or supporting beams
to be designed and provided. ‘Dura
Grating’ glass reinforced plastic grating
may be integrated into the system
to provide a working platform within
any voids. For detailed guidance,
refer to the CMF MetFloor technical
documentation.

2.14 / PODS
Pre-manufactured modular pods

for elements such as bathrooms
are commonly used within
MetStructures framed buildings.
In these instances, it is important that the
loadings and locations are communicated
to MetStructures, so the design can consider
the specific loading requirements.
Sequencing is also important, timing should allow
for pods to be positioned within the room before
access is lost.

3 | STANDARD COMPONENTS
3. STANDARD
COMPONENTS
3.1 / STANDARD COLD ROLLED SECTIONS
All MetStructures sections are manufactured using pre-hot dipped
galvanised steel strip S450 to BS EN 10346:2015 (BSI, 2009)with a
Z275 galvanised coating. Sections sizes vary and can be rolled to suit
customers’ requirements.
3.1.1 / COLD ROLLED PARTS Gauge

Lip
MC PROFILE RANGE
Flange
Web
Section Mass Web Flange Lip Gauge Section Mass Web Flange Lip Gauge
Reference (kg/m) (mm) (mm) (mm) Reference (kg/m) (mm) (mm) (mm)
MC-1007012 2.46 100 70 14 1.2 MC-20012 3.4 200 70 14 1.2

MC-1007016 3.19 100 70 14 1.6 MC-20016 4.44 200 70 14 1.6
MC-1007020 3.95 100 70 14 2 MC-20020 5.52 200 70 14 2
MC-1007024 4.87 100 70 14 2.4 MC-20024 6.75 200 70 14 2.4
MC-1007028 5.45 100 70 14 2.8 MC-20028 7.65 200 70 14 2.8
MC-1007032 6.18 100 70 14 3.2 MC-20032 8.69 200 70 14 3.2
MC-10010012 3.14 100 100 20 1.2 MC-25012 3.87 250 70 14 1.2
MC-10010016 4.09 100 100 20 1.6 MC-25016 5.07 250 70 14 1.6
MC-10010020 5.08 100 100 20 2 MC-25020 6.31 250 70 14 2
MC-10010024 6.22 100 100 20 2.4 MC-25024 7.69 250 70 14 2.4
MC-10010028 7.03 100 100 20 2.8 MC-25028 8.75 250 70 14 2.8
MC-10010032 7.99 100 100 20 3.2 MC-25032 9.95 250 70 14 3.2
MC-15012 2.93 150 70 14 1.2 MC-30012 4.34 300 70 14 1.2
MC-15016 3.82 150 70 14 1.6 MC-30016 5.7 300 70 14 1.6
MC-15020 4.74 150 70 14 2 MC-30020 7.1 300 70 14 2
MC-15024 5.81 150 70 14 2.4 MC-30024 8.64 300 70 14 2.4
MC-15028 6.55 150 70 14 2.8 MC-30028 9.85 300 70 14 2.8
MC-15032 7.43 150 70 14 3.2 MC-30032 11.21 300 70 14 3.2

Gauge
3.1.2 / COLD ROLLED PARTS
MU PROFILE RANGE
Flange Web
Section Reference Mass (kg/m) Web (mm) Flange (mm) Gauge

MU-10412 2.27 104 77 1.2
MU-10420 3.71 104 77 2
MU-15412 2.74 154 77 1.2
MU-15420 4.49 154 77 2
MU-20412 3.21 204 77 1.2
MU-20420 5.28 204 77 2
MU-25412 3.68 254 77 1.2
MU-25420 6.06 254 77 2
MU-30420 6.85 304 77 2
Gauge Dim A
COLD ROLLED PARTS
MU OVERBENT
PROFILE RANGE
Flange
<9
00
<9
00
Web
Section Reference Web (mm) Flange (mm) Dim A Gauge Internal Radius
MU-10512 105 60 100 1.2 1

3 | STANDARD COMPONENTS
3.1.3 / COLD ROLLED PARTS Flange B
MA PROFILE RANGE
Mass Flange A Flange B

Section Reference (kg/m)
Web
(mm) (mm)
Gauge
MA-10012 2.05 100 90 40 1.2

MA-12012 2.05 120 70 40 1.2
Web
MA-16012 2.62 161.2 90 40 1.2
MA-18012 2.62 181.2 70 40 1.2
MA-10032 5.37 102 90 40 3.2
MA-12032 5.37 122 70 40 3.2
Gauge
MA-16032 6.88 163.2 90 40 3.2
MA-18032 6.88 183.2 70 40 3.2
Flange A
3.1.4 / COLD ROLLED PARTS

MT PROFILE RANGE Web
e
An
gl
gl
An
e
Flange
Depth
e
An
gl
gl
An
Gauge
Leg 100.0 Leg
Section Reference Mass (kg/m) Web Flange (mm) Leg (mm) Gauge Depth
MT-15012 5.15 105 153.2 70 1.2 152
MT-16012 5.3 105 161.2 70 1.2 160
MT-18012 5.67 105 181.2 70 1.2 180
MT-20012 6.09 105 203.2 70 1.2 202
MT-25012 7.03 105 253.2 70 1.2 252
MT-15032 13.83 115 155.2 70 3.2 152
MT-16032 14.23 115 163.2 70 3.2 160
MT-18032 15.23 115 183.2 70 3.2 180
MT-20032 16.34 115 205.2 70 3.2 202
MT-25032 18.85 115 255.2 70 3.2 252

4. DESIGN PRINCIPLES
4.1 / DISPROPORTIONATE COLLAPSE
Disproportionate collapse is The requirements for provision of which must be considered for cold
the phenomenon of a building systems to avoid disproportionate rolled steel structures where tie forces
undergoing a collapse which is collapse vary with the size and use of are lower than hot rolled due to the
disproportionate to the cause. the building and are defined in The frequent and distributed nature of
Building Regulations. the ties.
For example, if a structure were
to collapse entirely due to an The MetStructures system is designed As the primary elements of the
accident which affected just one to include sufficient vertical and frame are bolted together at regular
horizontal tying in order to meet the intervals, the frame is inherently well
small area of the structure.
requirements for class 2B structures tied together. Additional detailing of
to BS EN 1991. To achieve this, the reinforcing bars is usually required
elements acting as ties and their in order to tie the concrete floors
end connections are checked by the in to the walls. Frequent screwed
designer to provide adequate tie connections are required in order to
forces. The UK National Annex to vertically tie wall panels across breaks
BS EN 1991-1-7 defines the tie forces at floor levels.
4.2 / BRACING & FRAME STABILITY

Lateral loads from wind are Sheathing boards and internal Loads are transferred down the bracing
transferred from the external linings may also be considered system and into the supporting
envelope of the structure into to contribute to the racking foundation/podium via the base
the floor plate which distributes resistance where adequate data connection. Connections between
wall panels at the floor junction are
them back to the braced walls via exists to support this.
designed in order to transfer shear
diaphragmatic action. Stability forces and any net overturning loads.
of the walls is generally achieved
Notional and equivalent horizontal
through regular distributed flat
forces follow the same load path and
strap cross bracing to allow them are checked as part of the design of the
to act as shear walls. bracing system.
4.3 / LOAD PATHS & LOAD TRACING

Gravity loads are traced down straight down the building rather Where walls are interrupted by open
the building as part of the than allowing for any spread as areas, transfer beams and columns
design process. The system is might be achieved in masonry are included in order to take the
comprised of panels of columns design. loads. Beams are designed with
adequate strength and stiffness to
at 600mm centres therefore
maintain the integrity of the frame.
loads are considered to follow

4 | DESIGN PRINCIPLES
4.4 / WINDOW/DOOR OPENING GUIDANCE

Window and door openings can be readily accommodated within the
structural frame. Design is generally governed by the lateral loads (e.g. Figure 33.
wind) applied back to the surrounding members, however the vertical Large flange jamb stud
loads from above openings are also considered, particularly where they
100
do not align from floor to floor.
Small to medium size openings may be formed in cold rolled steel jambs, lintels
and cills. Where larger openings are required they may require inclusion of hot
rolled steelwork within the frame.
Curtain wall screens can also be accommodated and would generally be cleated
back to beams at floor levels. The curtain wall designer should design the
connections and advise of the loads applied back to the frame.
Where openings are set into a brick façade, a large flange jamb stud may be
provided to accommodate the last brick tie channel and the cavity closer:
Brick-tie channel by others

accessibility subject to cavity
closure width by others
120 max. 100mm Flange Option

- No additional brick-tie required
Internal lining board to provide suitable fire 70 70
protection to primary frame by others
Additional stud max

225mm from opening
225 max

Insulation to
specification by others
Cavity barrier by others
Window system by others
Brickwork by others Figure 34.

Additional brick-tie stud
Bricktie channel by others
4.5 / ACCURACY & TOLERANCES
4.5.1 / SECTION ACCURACY

Sections are rolled in accordance with BS EN 10162:2003 for dimensional and cross-sectional tolerances.

4.5.2 / SITE TOLERANCE
An accurate starting point is required for the the base track using galvanised steel shim packs for levelling
commencement of the frame. The acceptable purposes which may be subject to additional costs. The
tolerance for the foundation/podium (in the absence following guidance should be observed:
of further contractual agreement) shall be: •G
aps up to 10mm, steel shim packs should be used under
• F oundation level tolerance is +0mm / -6mm. each loadbearing stud.
• F or gaps between 10 - 20mm, steel shim packs installed
It is important that the foundation level, podium or ground under each stud as well as grouting with a high strength
beams are accurately measured before commencing non-shrink grout under the entire length of the base
installation of wall frames. This should be carried out by the channel.
client’s site engineer prior to handover and any deviation
in tolerance above the shimming levels agreed must be • F or gaps greater than 20mm, advice should be sought
remediated by the contractor by either ‘scabbling’ down the from the design engineer and remedial works to the base/
high points or grouting up the lows (to client’s engineer’s substructure will be required.
specification). Where hot rolled columns are connected to the slab, a
To accommodate the remaining site tolerances and avoid nominal 15mm under-height tolerance may be included to
excessive site cutting, wall panels can be packed underneath be fully shimmed and grouted by the contractor.
4.5.3 / FRAME INSTALLATION TOLERANCES
Installation tolerances are to be agreed with the main contractor prior to commencing
on site. The National Structural Steel Specification (BCSA, 2007) can be used as a
guidance but note this is written for hot rolled beam and column steel frames.
In the absence of alternative agreement, the following should be achieved:

Length of wall frame +/- 10 mm in 10m
+/- 5 mm per storey of 3m height (cumulative), OR
Verticality (plumb) of walls
L/600 for spans >3m
Flatness of wall frame up to 10m length +/- 5 mm
Horizontal position of wall frame +/- 5 mm
Horizontal position of floor joists +/- 5 mm
Flatness of floor joists +/- 5 mm under a 2m straight edge with equal off-sets
Composite concrete floor slab thickness +/- 20 mm
By agreement SR2 +/-5 mm under a straight edge laid on the surface, OR
Composite concrete floor slab level
SR3 +/-10 mm under a straight edge laid on the surface
Composite concrete floor edge trim vertical +/-10 mm from steelwork
Composite concrete floor edge trim horizontal +/-5 mm from steelwork
4.5.4 / FOLLOW-ON TRADE TOLERANCES
The following requirements should be met by the nominated contractors:
+/- 10 mm total, AND

Verticality (plumb) of brickwork
+/- 5 mm per floor
Deviation in surface of insulation +/- 5 mm

5 | STANDARD DETAILS
5. STANDARD
DETAILS
The following drawings give an abridged selection of the standard MetStructures
construction details. A full and comprehensive pack of standard details can be
obtained from MetStructures upon request.
DETAIL CONTENTS
Reference Title Reference Title
MET-001 Base Connection Detail C Stud to U Track MET-030 Brick Support Detail
MET-002 Head Connection Detail C Stud to U Track MET-031 Internal Wall Built off Concrete Single & Twin
Head Connection Detail MET-032 Single Internal Wall to Concrete Floor

MET-003
Asymmetric Ledger to Stud
MET-033 Twin Internal Wall to Concrete Floor
Head Connection Detail
MET-004 MET-034 Single Internal Wall to Joisted Cassette Floor
Double Sided Ledger to Stud
MET-005 Parapet Detail Concrete Roof MET-035 Twin Internal Wall to Joisted Cassette Floor
MET-006 Parapet Detail Joisted Cassette Roof MET-036 Partition Wall Tie Detail
MET-007 Cill/Lintel Connection Details 1.2mm Gauge MET-037 Internal Wall Door Head & Jamb Details
MET-008 Cill/Lintel Connection Details 2.0mm Gauge MET-038 Internal Door Recessed Cill Detail
MET-009 Cill/Lintel Connection Details Compound Lintel MET-039 Single Internal Wall to Timber Truss Roof
MET-010 Base Connection Detail Hot Rolled to U Track MET-040 Twin Partition Wall to Timber Truss Roof
MET-011 Braced Wall Fixing Detail MET-041 Single Internal Wall to Joisted Cassette Roof
MET-012 External Wall Built off Concrete Slab MET-042 Internal Wall Built off Beam
MET-013 External Wall Built off Podium Slab Threshold & Barrier Details for Lift Shaft
MET-043
& Other CDM Openings
MET-014 External Wall Built off Beam
MET-044 Lift Shaft Guide Rail Connection Detail
MET-015 External Wall Lintel Detail
MET-045 Lift Wall Base to Pit
MET-016 External Wall Cill Detail
MET-046 Lifting Beam / Tie in Slab
External Wall to Concrete Floor
MET-017 MET-047 Typical Stair Plan Detail Half Landing
Load Bearing Detail
External Wall to Concrete Floor MET-048 Typical Stair Plan Detail Quarter Landing
MET-018
Non Load Bearing Detail Typical Stair Trimmer Beam Detail
MET-049
External Wall to Joisted Cassette Floor Concrete Floor
MET-019
Load Bearing Detail Typical Stair Trimmer Beam Detail
MET-050
External Wall to Joisted Cassette Floor Joisted Cassette Floor
MET-020
Non Load Bearing Detail MET-051 Half Landing Support Detail
MET-021 Propped Balcony Detail MET-052 Single Internal Wall to External Wall
MET-022 Cantilever Balcony Detail MET-053 Twin Internal Wall to External Wall
MET-023 External Wall Parapet MET-054 External Corner Outward
MET-024 External Wall to Concrete Roof MET-055 External Corner Inward
MET-025 External Wall to Timber Truss Roof MET-056 External Corner non-90 Degree
MET-026 External Wall to Timber Truss Gable MET-057 Internal Wall Junction Plan Details
MET-027 External Wall to Joisted Cassette Roof MET-058 External Jamb Details
MET-028 Factory Punching Capabilities MET-059 Panel to Panel Junction Details
MET-029 Scaffold Tie Detail MET-060 Brick Movement Joint Detail

MET-001 / Base Connection Detail C Stud to U Track
C Stud
M12 Countersunk bolt set

with locking nut or
equivalent rivet
U Track
MET-002 / Head Connection Detail C Stud to U Track
U Track

with locking nut or equivalent
rivet
C Stud

MET-003 / Head Connection Detail – Asymmetric Ledger to Stud
U Track

with locking nut or equivalent rivet
2no M12 bolt set

with locking nut
Asymmetric
Ledger Angle
MET-004 / Head Connection Detail – Double Sided Ledger to Stud
M12 Countersunk
M12 Countersunk
bolt set bolt set
with locking
withnut
locking
or nut or
equivalent
equivalent
rivet rivet
Double sided
Double sided
ledger angle
ledger angle

MET-005 / Parapet Detail Concrete Roof
U Track

with locking nut or equivalent rivet
Short flange to
prevent overspill @ SSL
2no M12 bolt set

with locking nut
Asymmetric
ledger angle
MET-006 / Parapet Detail Joisted Cassette Roof
U Track

with locking nut or
equivalent rivet
Cassette Track
2no M12 bolt set with locking nut to

fix cassette track to vertical stud

with locking nut or
equivalent rivet
Cassette Joist
Temporary Cassette Support Cleat

MET-007 / Cill/Lintel Connection Details 1.2mm Gauge
C Stud
35

with locking nut or
40
42
equivalent rivet
2
U Track 1.2mm
35 35
2 35 35
U Track 1.2mm
42
40

with locking nut or
equivalent rivet
35
C Stud
MET-008 / Cill/Lintel Connection Details 2.0mm Gauge
C Stud C Stud
C Stud C Stud
35 35
35 35
M12 Countersunk
M12 Countersunk
bolt set bolt set
withM12
locking
with
nutlocking
or nut or
M12 Countersunk bolt set bolt set
Countersunk
35 35
35 35
42 42
42 42
equivalent equivalent
rivet
with locking rivet
nut or
with locking nut or
equivalent
equivalent rivet rivet
7 7
35 35
35 35 U Track 2mm
U Track 2mm
7 7
35 35
35 35 U Track 2mm
U Track 2mm
7 735 35
35 35 U Track 2mm
U Track 2mm
7 7 35 35
35 35 U Track 2mm
U Track 2mm
42 42
42 42
35 35
35 35
M12 Countersunk
M12 Countersunk
bolt bolt
set with locking
set with
M12 nutlocking
or
Countersunk nut or
bolt
M12 Countersunk
equivalent bolt
equivalent
rivet rivet
set with
set with locking nutlocking
or nut or
35 35
35 35
equivalentequivalent
rivet rivet
C Stud C Stud
C Stud C Stud

MET-009 / Cill/Lintel Connection Details Compound Lintel
35 35
U Track 2mm
35
with locking nut or
equivalent rivet
35
7
2no Tek Screws at every stud
to fix U track to horizontal C
C Stud
1no Tek Screw through

each flange at 600mm
centres typical
U Track 2mm
Angle fixed into junction of lintel and jamb - 2no fixings through each leg
MET-011 / Braced Wall Fixing Detail

1800mm Typical
Bracing typically at 60°
Flat strap bracing

MET-010 / Base Connection Detail Hot Rolled to U Track
CONRETE FIXING DETAIL
Hot Rolled Post
M12 Countersunk Bolt U Track
Captive Nut Welded Concrete Anchor

to Base Plate
Base Plate
FLOOR PANEL DETAIL
Hot Rolled Post
M12 Countersunk Bolt U Track
Captive Nut Welded

to Base Plate
Base Plate
Base Plate

MET-012 / External Wall Built off Concrete Slab

Internal lining board to provide suitable fire

Brickwork by others protection to primary frame by others
Inter-stud insulation by others
Cavity tray by others
Weep hole by others
Insulation to specification by others

C Stud
U Track
150 min
Floor finishes to Architects details
M12 Countersunk bolt set with locking nut

or equivalent rivet
DPM by others Shimming & Grouting

as necessary
Mechanical anchor in
line with specification
Min edge distance to be observed

in line with MetStructures design
Min 10mm to edge of frame
Concrete foundation by others
MET-013 / External Wall Built off Podium Slab

Bricktie channel by others Internal lining board to provide suitable
Brickwork by others fire protection to primary frame by others
Cavity tray by others C Stud

Insulation to
specification by others U Track
Weep hole by others Floor finishes to Architects details
M12 Countersunk bolt set with locking nut
DPM by others or equivalent rivet
Shimming & Grouting
as necessary
Mechanical anchor in
Cavity slab edge line with specification
insulation by others Min edge distance to be observed
in line with MetStructures design
Min 10mm to edge of frame
Hot rolled beam & concrete slab

with suitable insulation and fire
Indicates line of finishes by others

MET-014 / External Wall Built off Beam

Internal lining board to provide
Bricktie channel by others suitable fire protection to
primary frame by others
Insulation to C Stud
specification by others External sheathing board
Weep hole by others U Track
Cavity insulation by others
M12 Countersunk bolt set with
Cavity barrier by others locking nut or equivalent rivet
Fixings in line with specification
Brickwork by others
Hot rolled beam suitable

insulation and fire
Indicates line of finishes

by others
MET-015 / External Wall Lintel Detail
Internal lining board to provide suitable

fire protection to primary frame by others
Brickwork by others
C Stud

U Track
Weep hole by others M12 Countersunk bolt set with

locking nut or equivalent rivet
Brickwork Support lintel by others External sheathing board to

return to inside face of frame
(typically flush with brickwork
Cavity Barrier by others opening) (Site fitted item)
Aperture by others

MET-015 / External Wall Cill Detail

Brickwork by others
C Stud

U Track
Weep hole by others M12 Countersunk bolt set with

locking nut or equivalent rivet
Brickwork Support lintel by others External sheathing board to

return to inside face of frame
(typically flush with brickwork
Cavity Barrier by others opening) (Site fitted item)
Aperture by others
MET-017 / External Wall to Concrete Floor Load Bearing Detail
Brickwork by others C Stud

Tapes by MetStructures (Site applied)
Weep hole by others Fixings by design
Insulation to Floor finishes to Architects details

specification by others M12 Countersunk bolt set
with locking nut
or equivalent rivet
U Track
Load bearing deck support
Progressive collapse tie
Profiled fire stop by others Fire Reinforcement & progressive

collapse required (by design)
Note: Teks cut off by others
Fire stop to supporting to allow fitting of boards
channel by others
150 (min)

Inter-stud insulation by provide suitable fire protection
others (Min 600mm to primary frame by others
below ceiling line &
600 above SSL) Non fire rated ceiling by others

MET-018 / External Wall to Concrete Floor Non Load Bearing Detail

Bricktie channel
by others
Brickwork by others C Stud
Weep hole by others Fixings by design
Floor finishes to Architects details M12 Countersunk bolt set

Insulation to with locking nut or equivalent rivet
U Track
Cavity barrier by others Composite structural decking
Profiled fire stop (Indicated by hatch) by design
by others
Fire Reinforcement
Fire stop to supporting
channel by others
150 (min) required (by design)
Inter-stud insulation by Note: Teks cut off by

others (Min 600mm others to allow fitting
below ceiling line & 600 of boards
above SSL)
Non fire rated ceiling by others
provide suitable fire 5 tolerance
protection to primary
frame by others
Closure plate in 2mm flat steel
strip to suit remainder of
floor area to a maximum Alternative landing detail
of 245mm with closure plate
MET-019 / External Wall to Joisted Cassette Floor Load Bearing Detail

C Stud
Brickwork by others External sheathing board
Cavity tray by others Tapes by MetStructures (Site applied)
Fixings by design
Insulation to specification
by others M12 Countersunk bolt set with locking nut or equivalent rivet
Factory fitted 22mm OSB3

MetStructures Joist cassette
Fire lining boards to underside

of joists by others
Fixings by design
Inter-stud insulation by
others (Min 600mm
below ceiling line & 600
above SSL) Non fire rated ceiling by others
provide suitable fire
frame by others

MET-020 / External Wall to Joisted Cassette Floor Non Load Bearing Detail

C Stud
Brickwork by others External sheathing board
Fixings by design
Insulation to specification M12 Countersunk bolt set with locking nut

by others or equivalent rivet

Fire lining boards to
underside of joists
by others Fixings by design
others (Min 600mm
600 above SSL) Non fire rated ceiling by others
frame by others
MET-021 / Propped Balcony Detail

Insulation to Tapes by MetStructures (Site applied)
Bricktie channel by others Fixings by design
Brickwork by others U Track
Cavity barrier by others Non Load bearing deck support
Composite structural decking with fibre reinforced concrete
Balcony steel (Indicated by hatch) by design
by others
Fire Reinforcement & progressive collapse
Insulation made good Note: Teks cut off by others to allow fitting of boards
around bracket on site 150 (min)

Inter-stud insulation by External sheathing board

others (Min 600mm C stud
600 above SSL)
to provide suitable fire Fixings by design
frame by others
C Stud
Galvanised stub
by others or
by MetStructures by
agreement
Thermal isolation
pad by agreement

MET-022 / Cantilever Balcony Detail

Insulation to
specification by others Fixings by design
Floor finishes to
Architects details
"U" Profile (Encapsulating hot rolled column)
Brickwork by others
Cavity barrier by others Non Load bearing deck support angle
Composite structural decking with fibre
reinforced concrete
Balcony steel Progressive collapse tie
by others (Indicated by hatch) by design
Fire Reinforcement & progressive collapse
Insulation made good Note: Teks cut off by others
around bracket on site 150 (min)
to allow fitting of boards
Hot rolled column by design
C Stud
frame by others
Fixings by design
Hot rolled column by design

Galvanised stub by
others or Supplied by
MetStructures
by agreement
Thermal isolation
pad by others
MET-023 / External Wall Parapet
Parapet capping &

ancillaries by others Site fitted External sheathing board
Site fitted External sheathing board


C Stud
Weep hole by others
Roof specification and

Insulation to specification products by others
by others
Brickwork by others
MetStructures
Joist cassette
others (Min 600mm below
ceiling line & 600 above SSL) Fixings by design

of joists by others

suitable fire protection to primary
frame by others Non fire rated ceiling by others

MET-024 / External Wall to Concrete Roof
Facade & ancillaries

Roof specification and products by others
by others
Cavity barrier by others Load bearing deck support

subject to fire strategy Composite structural decking with
fibre reinforced concrete
tie by design
Profiled fire stop
by others Fire Reinforcement &
progressive collapse required
50
(by design)
Fire stop to supporting
channel by others Note: Teks cut off by others
150 (min)
to allow fitting of boards
Brickwork by others
Insulation to
specification by others Non fire rated ceiling by others
ceiling line & 600 above SSL)

frame by others
MET-025 / External Wall to Timber Truss Roof
Roof joists and finishes

to specification by others
Fixing by design
Fire barrier by others
Timber sole plate (by others or by
MetStructures by negotiation)

MetStructures wall

Brickwork by others
Inter-stud insulation by others (Min 600mm
below ceiling line & 600 above SSL)
Weep hole
by others

MET-026 / External Wall to Timber Truss Gable
Roof joists and finishes to specification by others
Gable tie plate Fixing by design by others

Fixing by design by others
Weep hole by others
Fire lining boards to underside of joists by others Timber sole plate (by others or by
MetStructures by negotiation)
Tapes by Metstructures
Brickwork by others
Bricktie channel by others External sheathing board
Insulation to specification by others C Stud
Inter-stud insulation by others (Min 600mm

below ceiling line & 600 above SSL)
Weep hole by others
Window by others
MET-027 / External Wall to Joisted Cassette Roof

Roof specification and
products by others
Factory fitted OSB3

Facade & ancillaries
by others

subject to fire strategy
Fixings by design

of joists by others
Insulation to specification
by others
Bricktie channel
by others External sheathing board
by others (Min 600mm
MetStructures wall system
600 above SSL)
Brickwork by others

MET-028 / Factory Punching Capabilities
C 100 B
FACTORY FORMED SERVICE HOLES
C 100 B
C 100 B
=
40
= = =
40 40
= =
FACTORY35FORMED PUNCHES
35
35 CF Ø14 Ø18
=
70/100
70/100
CF Ø18
35 = = 35 = = =
Ø14
CF Ø14 Ø18
70/100
70/100
70/100
70/100
50mm
100-500
100-500
= 50mmmin35
100-500
100-500
50mm
100-500
100-500
= = = = = = minmin
70/100
70/100
70/100
= =
SITE FORMED SERVICE HOLES
B C E C B
B C E C B
B C E C B
A
D
A A
F F
D
D

MET-029 / Scaffold Tie Detail
Floor finishes to
Architects details
Fixings by design
U Track
M12 Countersunk bolt
Insulation made good set with locking nut
around bracket on site Factory fitted
22mm OSB3
Scaffold tie and
bar by others
Tapes by MetStructures
(Site applied)
Sacrificial connector
left in place by others
Site set out by others

of joists by others
EXTERNAL WALL SCAFFOLD TIE - INTO JOIST

Floor finishes to
Architects details
Fixings by design
U Track
M12 Countersunk
Insulation made good bolt set with locking nut
around bracket on site
Scaffold tie and

bar by others
Tapes by
MetStructures
Sacrificial connector
left in place by others Load Bearing
Deck Support
Site set out by others
C Stud
EXTERNAL WALL SCAFFOLD TIE - INTO DECK

MET-030 / Brick Support Detail
Floor finishes to
Inter-stud insulation by Architects details
ceiling line & 600 above SSL) C Stud
Cavity tray by others Tapes by MetStructures (Site applied)
Weep hole by others

Non Load bearing deck support angle
(Indicated by hatch) by design
Fire stop to supporting Fire Reinforcement

channel by others & progressive collapse
Brick support design 150 (min) Note: Teks cut off by others
by others to allow fitting of boards
Bracket by MetStructures by negotiation

Horizontal soft joint to
engineers specification
Brickwork by others

Brick support design

by others
Insulation made good External sheathing board

around bracket on site

MET-031 / Internal Wall Built off Concrete Single & Twin
Insulation to

protection to primary C Stud
frame by others

Floor finishes to Architects set with locking nut
details if applicable or equivalent rivet
Fixing by design WITH RESILIENT BAR

GROUND FLOOR SLAB IN Resilient bar to be added by
LINE WITH STRUCTURAL other subject to specification
ENGINEERS SPECIFICATION requirements
Insulation to
Internal lining board Resilient bar to be added by

to provide suitable fire other subject to specification
protection to primary requirements
C Stud
frame by others

Floor finishes to Architects set with locking nut
details if applicable or equivalent rivet
WITH RESILIENT BAR
Fixing by design
GROUND FLOOR SLAB IN
LINE WITH STRUCTURAL
ENGINEERS SPECIFICATION
MET-032 / Single Internal Wall to Concrete Floor
tie by design
Floor finishes to Fire Reinforcement

Architects details & progressive collapse
Non Load bearing

by others
Fire stop to
supporting
channel
by others
by others (above and
below ceiling line)
C Stud
Ceiling by others
LOAD NON LOAD

BEARING SIDE BEARING SIDE

MET-033 / Twin Internal Wall to Concrete Floor
tie by design
Cavity barrier Fire Reinforcement
by others Floor finishes to & progressive collapse
Architects details required (by design)
Non Load bearing

required
by others
Fire stop to
supporting
channel
by others

to provide suitable fire Partition wall tie
Ceiling by others
by others (above and C Stud
below ceiling line)
LOAD BEARING SIDE NON LOAD BEARING SIDE
MET-034 / Single Internal Wall to Joisted Cassette Floor

C Stud
Fixings by design

set with locking nut
or equivalent rivet
Factory fitted
22mm OSB3
Insulation by others
(Specification subject to
performance requirements
by others)
600 above SSL)
Fixings by design
Ceiling by others
Fire lining boards to

underside of joists by others

to primary frame by others LOAD BEARING SIDE NON LOAD BEARING SIDE

MET-035 / Twin Internal Wall to Joisted Cassette Floor
C Stud
Fixings by design
Floor finishes to
Architects details M12 Countersunk
bolt set with
locking nut
Insulation by others Factory fitted 22mm OSB3

(Specification subject
to performance
requirements by others)
600 above SSL)
Fixings by design
Fire lining boards
to underside of joists
Partition wall tie
by others
Internal lining board to Ceiling by others

MET-036 / Partition Wall Tie Detail

105mm typ.

or equivalent rivet Acoustic matting
(Designed by others
Installed by MetStructures)
C Stud used as tie - acoustic

matting placed between sections
(Matting design by others,
install by MetStructures)
Fixings by design
C Stud

MET-038 / Internal Door Recessed Cill Detail
A B
30
A B
Cripple stud bolted to full

height vertical at top and bottom

Floor finishes to ocking nut or equivalent rivet
Architects details
Fixings by design
U Track
Deck Support

(min 600mm below ceiling line
& 600mm above SSL)
Ceiling by others

suitable fire protection to primary frame
Section A-A

ocking nut or equivalent rivet
30
U Track
Deck Support

(min 600mm below ceiling line
& 600mm above SSL)
Ceiling by others

suitable fire protection to primary frame
Section B-B

MET-037 / Internal Wall Door Head & Jamb Details

C Stud

or equivalent rivet
Door frame build up by others
Internal Door Head U Track
Door to specification by others

C Stud

suitable fire protection to primary frame.
(Specification subject to performance
requirements by others)
Internal Jamb
MET-039 / Single Internal Wall to Timber Truss Roof
Timber roof construction to

specialist design
Fixing by design
10
Shim packer as required

MetStructures
wall construction

MET-040 / Twin Partition Wall to Timber Truss Roof
Timber partition wall

by others
MetStructures wall construction

frame by others
MET-041 / Single Internal Wall to Joisted Cassette Roof

Roof finishes by others
Tapes by MetStructures
Factory fitted 22m OSB3


or equivalent rivet
Fixings by design
MetStructures wall
Internal lining board to provide construction
frame by others

MET-042 / Internal Wall Built off Beam
600 above SSL)
U track
M12 Countersunk
bolt set with
to provide suitable
locking nut or
fire protection to
equivalent rivet
primary frame
by others
Factory fitted

22mm OSB3
Tab plate welded

to beam by design
Fire protection Fixings by design

by others
Beam by MetStructures
MET-043 / Threshold & Barrier Details for Lift Shaft & Other CDM Openings
Flat strap bracing, angle

or C profile stud to act as
temporary barrier to design
1100
Flat strap bracing, angle

or C profile stud to act as
temporary barrier to design
450
Note: Toe board by

others as required SSL

MET-044 / Lift Shaft Guide Rail Connection Detail

Fire Mastic
2 Layers of 12mm external sheathing board
factory fitted to lift shaft wall panel
Steel spacer
P1001-B3 Unistrut
or similar approved
MetStructures
wall construction
41

MET-045 / Lift Wall Base to Pit
Lifting beam by MetStructures

Lifting eye to be installed and Inter-stud insulation by
3 tested by lift installer others (Min 600mm
below ceiling line
Vertical spacings for
guide rails to suit lift
& 600 above SSL) manufacturer designs
MetStructures
Internal lining board wall construction
to provide suitable
2 fire protection to
primary frame
by others
Concrete lift pit to

engineers details
1 Min edge distance
to be observed
HS
Channel assembly cast

into concrete (by others)
Vertical spacings for guide rails
G to suit lift manufacturer designs
MetStructures
wall construction
LG

MET-046 / Lifting Beam / Tie in Slab
Lifting beam by
MetStructures
Lifting eye installed and
tested by lift installer
Height to U/S of
lifting eye as per lift
manufacturer details
Additional studs to
support lifting beam
Lift shaft studs

as per design
Lifting eye installed

and tested by lift installer
Height to U/S of Concrete lift cap

lifting eye as per lift
manufacturer details
by MetStructures
Lift shaft studs

as per design
MET-047 / Typical Stair Plan Detail Half Landing
RSA or similar by
MetStructures to
support landing slab RSA or similar by
MetStructures to
support stair half
landings
Half landing slab
Stairwell
Stairwell
10mm Gap between stringer 10mm Gap between stringer 10mm Gap between stringer 10mm Gap between stringer
and plaster boards and plaster boards and plaster boards and plaster boards
Half Landing by MetStructures Half Landing by Stair Manufacturer

MET-048 / Typical Stair Plan Detail Quarter Landing

RSA or similar by MetStructures RSA or similar by MetStructures
to support stair half landings to support stair half landings
Landing by Landing by
Stair Supplier Stair Supplier
Stairwell
10mm Gap between stringer 10mm Gap between stringer

and plaster boards and plaster boards
MET-049 / Typical Stair Trimmer Beam Detail Concrete Floor
Fixing method for stair to

trimmer beam to be Composite structural
confirmed with decking cast after
stair manufacturer stair installation

MetStructures Designed on Support plate welded to
project specific basis underside of trimmer beam

Fixing method for stair to trimmer MetStructures Designed on
beam to be confirmed with project specific basis
stair manufacturer

cast after stair installation
Support plate welded to

underside of trimmer beam

MET-050 / Typical Stair Trimmer Beam Detail Joisted Cassette Floor
Floor build up as
Fixing method for stair to trimmer specified by architect
beam to be confirmed by
stair manufacturer
Joisted cassette
by MetStructures
Plate welded to trimmer beam

for end joist to fix into

MetStructures Designed on
project specific basis
MET-051 / Half Landing Support Detail
Internal lining board to Met - MB100120 strap fixed

provide suitable fire protection to stud flange to shutter slab
MetFloor metal deck
by others
tie by design
Profiled fire stop required Fire Reinforcement

50
Support by MetStructures
Fire stop to supporting bolted to flange of studs
channel
Note: Teks cut off by

others to allow fitting
of boards
150 (min)

MET-052 / Single Internal Wall to External Wall

to provide suitable C Stud
fire protection to
primary frame
by others
C Stud
Inter-stud
insulation
by others
External
insulation
Bricktie channel
Brickwork
by others
MET-053 / Twin Internal Wall to External Wall
Secondary angle or studwork to

support dry-lining by others

to provide suitable fire C Stud
frame by others
C Stud
Inter-stud insulation M12 Grade 8.8 bolt

by other (Min 600mm complete with locking nut and
beyond wall when washers (Top & bottom)
required for flanking, External sheathing board
to be confirmed
by acoustician)
Insulation to
Brickwork by others

MET-054 / External Corner Outward

Secondary angle or studwork
to support dry-lining by others

frame by others External sheathing board
Site applied External

sheathing board
Inter-stud insulation to panel edge
by others
M12 Grade 8.8 bolt complete with locking
nut and washers (Top & bottom)
C Stud
Insulation to
specification
by others
Cavity barrier External sheathing board
by others
Bricktie channel
by others
Brickwork by others
MET-055 / External Corner Inward
Internal lining board to Additional stud to fix boarding

provide suitable fire min 70mm access required
frame by others
C Stud
Inter-stud insulation Board support

by others angle by others
M12 Grade 8.8 bolt

Insulation to complete with locking
specification nut and washers
by others (Top & bottom)
Bricktie channel
by others External sheathing board
Additional stud to
carry cavity
Brickwork by others barrier by
agreement only

MET-056 / External Corner non-90 Degree

frame by others External sheathing board
Site applied External

sheathing board to panel edge
Low profile Ø5.5 Tek screw
fixing support plate to wall
panels. Fixing by design
Insulation to Angled plate by design
C Stud
by others
Brickwork by others

MET-057 / Internal Wall Junction Plan Details
INTERNAL SEPARATING WALL
Internal lining board to C Stud

frame by others
Internal lining board to C Stud
M12 Grade 8.8 bolt
complete with locking
nut and washers
frame by others
Insulation to specification (Top & bottom)
by others
M12 Grade 8.8 bolt
nut and washers
Insulation to specification (Top & bottom)
by others
INTERNAL NON-SEPARATING WALL

frame by others

suitable fire protection to primary C Stud
frame by others
M12 Grade 8.8 bolt
complete with
locking nut and
C Stud
washers
(Top & bottom)
M12 Grade 8.8 bolt
complete with
Secondary lining board locking nut and
support by others washers
(Top & bottom)
Secondary lining board

support by others

MET-058 / External Jamb Details
100
Brick-tie channel
by others accessibility
subject to cavity closure
width by others
100mm Flange Option - No additional brick-tie required
120 max.
Internal lining board 70 70

to provide suitable
fire protection to
primary frame
by others
Additional
stud max
225mm from
225 max opening
Insulation to
specification
by others External
sheathing
board
Window system
by others
Brickwork by others

MET-059 / Panel to Panel Junction Details
EXTERNAL PANEL TO PANEL JUNCTION

C Stud
C Stud
M12 Grade 8.8 bolt
M12(Top
nut and washers Grade 8.8 bolt
& bottom)
Brick tie channel

by others
Brick tie channel
by others
Brickwork by others
Brickwork by others
INTERNAL PANEL TO PANEL JUNCTION
C Stud
C Stud

suitable fire protection to
Internalprimary
lining board
frametobyprovide
others
suitable fire protection to
primary frame by others

MET-060 / Brick Movement Joint Detail
200 max 200 max
C Stud
External
Insulation to sheathing
specification board
by others
Bricktie
channel
by others
Brickwork
by others
Sleeved tie channel by others

MetStructures Ltd
Suite 2, Alcora Building,
Halesowen, West Midlands, B62 8DG
t: 0121 389 1603

e: info@metstructures.uk.com
www.MetStructures.uk.com
Copyright ©2018 MetStructures Ltd. All rights reserved.

No part of this material may be reproduced in any form by any means without the express written permission of MetStructures Ltd.

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LIGHT GAUGE STEEL FRAMED STRUCTURES

Version 1.0 | 09/18

MetStructures Limited formed We are a construction company providing Design,

02 | www.metstructures.uk.com | 0121 389 1603

1.5 / Project Lead Times  18

4.1 / Disproportionate Collapse  36

2.7 / Floors  21 4.5.4 / Follow-On Trade Tolerances  38

0121 389 1603 | www.metstructures.uk.com | 03

This construction is most effectively

Vertical studs are assembled into

Figure 2. Example of Load-Bearing

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1.1 / Panels are bolted together

Floors are generally formed from

Figure 3. Typical Profiles

Figure 4. Wall and Floor

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1.3 / BUILDING ENGINEERING PHYSICS

1.3.1 / WARM FRAME & RAPID DRY ENVELOPE (RDE)

Internal lining boards (vapour check and

MetStructures steel studs. Mineral wool

Factory fitted external sheathing board

Brick-tie channels fixed to studs through

External facing brickwork

Design life of galvanised steel sections in common building applications

Product application Environmental conditions Predicted design life

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1.3.3 / ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE

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Internal lining board

Floor finishes to Fire Reinforcement

Non Load bearing

LOAD NON LOAD

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25dB 1 x 12.5mm gypsum-based lining board

30dB 2 x 12.5mm gypsum-based lining board

1.3.4 / THERMAL PERFORMANCE

Cold bridging across the façade at interfaces, such as

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1.3.5.1 / TYPICAL WALL BUILD-UPS

All applied finishes

Brick Tie Channel

Breather Membrane Figure 9.

Cavity tray and weep hole Concrete Floor

Cavity fire barrier

Brick/block tie channel

Breather Membrane Ceiling line

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Brick Slip System Lining Boards

Vertical Support Rail Concrete Floor

Helping Hand Supports

Insulation Ceiling Line

All applied finishes to be in line with specification requirements

Insulation Lining Boards

All applied finishes

Cavity Fire Barrier

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TYPICAL WALL BUILD-UPS, Continued

Metal Rainscreen Cladding Lining Boards

Insulation Concrete Floor

Helping Hand Supports

External Sheathing Board

Breather Membrane Ceiling Line

All applied finishes

1.5 / Project Lead Times 18

4.1 / Disproportionate Collapse 36

2.7 / Floors 21 4.5.4 / Follow-On Trade Tolerances 38