Stud Partition walls - timber or metal?

tootsie215

Hi all
I am converting a church hall and need to put in some walls. Can anyone tell me if I can use metal stud partitioning as there will be a ceiling on top and if it would take the extra weight, possible storage floor above. the length would be approx 24ft and the width 24ft divided in the middle with a 4ft hallway.
Ive heard that its the easier and cheaper alternative to wood but its the weight of the ceiling beams and plasterboard that concerns me.

any ideas??

thanks

MX5huggy

You need to get some professonal help with this, I don't think stud partioning made of wood or metal is designed support the ceiling. How were you intending to suport the ceiling at the edges (the outside walls).

tootsie215

Hi, thanks for responding so quickly.

Iwas going to use those metal plate things to support the beams on the outside walls and was hoping that the stud walls would take the weight of the beams and plasterboard. the storage space above is more of a nice to have than a necessary. a carpenter friend suggested that 4x2 timber would do the trick but did not know enough about the steel system to give me advice.

Natty082

The walls should not support the floor the original structural framing (ie the beams should, block load bearing walls... etc).... If you want additional support to the floor you should ideally use blockwork walls - speak to an Architect or local authority building control. If your installing new floors etc you should inform the LA and they may advise you on a structural engineer.

Also if you're thinking of metal framing there is a company called 'Knauf' that have a 'complete drywall manual'.... lists stud sizes for various spans etc. It also has a ceiling section. There will be cheaper stud systems but its probably worth asking Knauf for the brochure so you can get an idea of what you want.... Its my bible at work!!