Low Rib AG Paneling for Shop Interior Walls

[mkimler]

I have searched this forum for similar threads but haven't been able to find an answer. So sorry if this has been asked before.

What I want to do is install interior walls in my metal shop building. The current framing is C-channel for the horizontal wall girts that are spaced roughly 3' apart vertically. The vertical steel columns are square tubing spaced 12' apart. I really like the look of the sheet metal low rib AG panels and have seen some people use this for interior walls. I think the ribs are spaced 9" apart with a depth of less than 1" This paneling is what I would like to use but have a couple of questions before I go spend a bunch of money on it:

1) Are the three horizontal girts sufficient to attach the AG paneling to using self tapping metal screws? Or do I need to install some kind of structural support behind it such as 2x4's on 16" centers or plywood?

2) If I don't have any kind of structure behind the panels other than the girts, is it sufficient to attach metal conduit, metal boxes, etc. just to the sheet metal using conduit clamps and self tapping screws? I'm afraid the 29 ga steel panels may not have enough thickness for the screws to sufficiently bite and hold up over the test of time.

I appreciate any advice you all can offer up.

 

[tjdux]

The girts are likely fine to hold the metal siding. I beleive a common brand name for what you are describing is Pro-rib Tin. Its very common.

As far as needing 2x framing or plywood, not likely. If you wantes to hang heavy shelves from the wall you may want more structure there or just use the verical supports. You may want to mark where those are for future reference because they may be hard to locate through the metal.

Rib steel will hold a self tapping screw and a little weight. Conduit is likely fine but heavy boxes may be near or above the limit. Also wouldn't hurt for both to be anchored into the vericals everywhere possibe.

So say with the conduit if you're putting a holder clip every 2 or 3 feet just make sure that the clip every 12 ft lands on a vertical would be my suggestion.

Good luck

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[John in OH]

What is your insulation plan? That would probably effect wall design.

 

[mkimler]

When the building was constructed, the contractor installed insulation that comes in rolls. The insulation is sandwiched between the columns/girts and the corrugated metal siding. I have no plans on adding any additional insulation.