Metal Stud Partition Calculator — Studs, Track & Boards

British Gypsum GypWall systems use 300, 400 or 600mm centres — 500mm is not a recognised drylining centre. 600mm is standard for single-layer 12.5mm plasterboard each side and is still standard for double-boarded fire- or sound-rated partitions. Reducing to 400mm or 300mm centres increases the maximum height the partition can reach and suits heavier cladding; always check the British Gypsum maximum-height tables for your stud size and board build-up.

Adding one 12.5mm board to each side, British Gypsum GypWall Single Frame gives a finished wall of about 75mm from a 48mm (48 S 50) stud, about 97mm from a 70mm (70 S 50) stud, and about 119mm from a 92mm (92 S 50) stud. The 70mm stud is the most common for domestic partitions as it accommodates services and gives better sound insulation; 92mm studs suit taller walls and enhanced acoustic performance. Double-boarding adds a further 12.5mm per face.

Yes, horizontal noggings are needed at board joints (typically at 1200mm height for horizontal boards), at the height of heavy items (radiators, TV brackets, basins), and at dado/picture rail height. Use metal nogging channel or timber noggings between studs.

Roughly 28–36 drywall screws per standard 2400×1200mm sheet. British Gypsum specifies fixing at 300mm centres to studs and around the perimeter, tightening to 200mm centres at external angles, with screws kept at least 13mm from a cut edge — so cut and edge boards take more screws than full ones. Use 25mm screws for a single layer, 32mm for the inner layer and 42mm for the outer layer when double-boarding. This calculator estimates ~28 per single-layer sheet; for double-boarded faces it counts each layer.

C-studs (also called channels) form the vertical members and have a C-shaped cross section that slots into the track. Track (also called floor and ceiling channel) is U-shaped and is fixed to the floor and ceiling. The studs are not fixed to the track — they are friction-fitted and can be adjusted.