How to Install Hollow Metal Frames

Masonry Construction

Typical wood spreader must be square and fabricated from lumber or steel no less than 1" thick. Correct length is the door opening width between the jambs
at the header. Cut clearance notches for frame stops. Spreader must be nearly as wide as frame depth for proper installation. i.e., Single door 3'0" = 36"

1. Set and plumb frame.
2. Install three (or four anchors for fire rating) anchors per jamb at the hinge and strike levels as wall is laid up. Grout frame in the area of the anchors. Frames may also be supplied with anchors welded in place.
3. A second spreader is recommended at the midpoint of the door opening to maintain the door opening dimension.
4. Continually check plumb and square as wall progresses.

Steel Stud Wall Construction

Position studs in frame throat and attach to anchors with screws or weld. If using screws, the installer should drill from the back side of the stud, through both the stud and anchor, then attach screws. Refer to item #1, Elevations, for quantity and position of anchors.

Note: When attaching header stud to jamb studs, be sure the stud is above frame header. This will assure ample room for attaching plaster lath or drywall and will not interfere with installation of hardware attached to frame header.

1. Install minimum three anchors per jamb (four for fire rating) at the hinge and strike levels. Position anchors in frame through the throat and tap in with a hammer. Frames may also be supplied with anchors welded in place.
2. Square, face and plumb frame as shown.
3. Set spreader. Attach jambs to floor through floor anchor or floor extension. Install jamb studs to floor and ceiling runners and tightly against frame anchors.
4. Attach studs to frame anchors as shown.

Wood Stud Construction

1. Insert anchors at hinge and strike levels. Position anchors in frame throat and tap in with a hammer. Frames may also be supplied with anchors welded in place. Base anchors may also be used.
2. Place frame in rough stud opening.
3. Bend anchor tabs around stud leaving desired clearance between frame return and stud for inserting finished wall material.
4. Set spreader and level frame. Shim jambs if necessary.
5. Square and nail top anchors to studs on ONE JAMB ONLY. Check plumb and square and continue to nail balance of anchors to studs. Repeat for opposite jamb.