Unreinforced and reinforced utility openings in cold-formed steel metal wall studs feature specific size and placement limitations relative to stud depth and structural connections. The unreinforced detail permits small openings up to three times the stud depth maximum, using single or typical double studs. The reinforced assembly accommodates larger openings ranging from one-third to two-thirds of the stud depth, utilizing a fourteen-gauge stud reinforcement one foot zero inches long fastened with eight number eight sheet metal screws for each stud. Openings exceeding two-thirds of the stud depth are prohibited, and no penetrations may be located at backing plates or within ten inches of structural bearing and connections.
TYPICAL UNREINFORCED STUD OPENING TYPICAL REINFORCED STUD OPENING STUD & OPENING SINGLE STUD OR DOUBLE STUD, TYP C L DEPTH "D" STUD MAX 3D STUD & OPENING C L DEPTH "D" STUD 14GA STUD x1'-0" W/ (8) #8 SMS FOR EA STUD NOTES: 1. NO OPENINGS IN METAL STUD GREATER THAN 2D/3 ALLOWED. 2. DO NOT LOCATE OPENINGS AT BACKING PLATE. 3. DO NOT LOCATE OPENING WITHIN 10" OF BEARING OR CONNECTION TO STRUCTURE. MAX OPENING D/3 TO 2D/3 SINGLE STUD OR DOUBLE STUD, TYP
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