How to Attach a Nailer to a Steel I-Beam
Nailers are essential when installing walls over existing structural I-beams. They allow you to use the beam as part of the structure of the interior wall as opposed to just a structural roof support. The most important aspect of installing nailers onto I-beams is that both surfaces must be clean and dry before applying the construction adhesive to the nailer. This will allow the glue to set with enough strength to permanently hold the I-beam in place. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Wire brush
- Construction adhesive
- C-clamps
Please enter your 10 digit phone number only.
A link to this article has been sent to the phone number provided.
Instructions
-
-
1
Clean the surface of the I-beam on which the nailer is to be installed using a wire brush. It is very important that the beam be completely clean, or the glue won't adhere to the surface. Once the I-beam is clean, scuff the side of the nailer that will be installed onto the I-beam to roughen its surface.
-
2
Apply construction adhesive to the I-beam where the nailer will be installed.
-
-
3
Press the nailer firmly into the construction adhesive, making certain that the edges of the I-beam and the nailer line up.
-
4
Clamp the four corners of the nailer securely to the I-beam with the C-clamps. If the nailer board is long, use two C-clamps in the middle of the board, as well. Tighten the clamps until the construction adhesive extrudes from the edges of the board. Allow the adhesive to set according to the manufacturer's instructions before removing the clamps.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
For additional strength, drill holes through the nailer and the I-beam and insert bolts through the holes. This is not necessary on most walls, however.
References
- "Ultimate Guide to House Framing"; John Wagner; 2009
- "Graphic Guide to Frame Construction"; Rob Thallon; 2009
- "Complete Book of Framing: An Illustrated Guide for Residential Construction"; Scot Simpson; 2007
- Photo Credit Hans Hansen/Lifesize/Getty Images
