Drywall clips, which can also be referred to as drywall fasteners or stops, are used in both residential and commercial construction. These clips are placed on the edge of the drywall and fastened to grip the stud. They provide a surface for the drywall to be supported when installed.
Clips are now being used to replace the metal or wood blocking that had once been used to install drywall. These clips create a single or double-stud corner, versus the three or four-stud corners that the blocking provided. This still provides sufficient support and backing that is comparable to, and sometimes better than, the traditional three or four-stud corners.
Drywall clips are usually constructed from galvanized or sheet metal, polyethylene, or metal wire. The advantage of using plastic is its non-corrosive component, and its ability to be nailed, screwed, or stapled to the wood members. Different manufacturers of these drywall fasteners have varying installation techniques and materials.
With the use of drywall clips, the drywall is separated from the framing pieces, which helps to minimize sound travel through the walls. For further sound transmission control, specialized sound isolation drywall clips can be used, which are attached to the studs then nailed to the drywall. This forms an air pocket between the stud and the drywall to reduce or eliminate sound transmission into the building structure. Higher quality sound isolation drywall clips can even minimize vibration.
There are many advantages to using drywall clips. They are easier to install than traditional wood backing, and decrease the amount of wood used for framing by replacing non-structural studs. Drywall fasteners also support energy efficient buildings and homes by reducing heat loss. The allowance of insulation behind the drywall studs encourages better thermal competence of the building.
These clips make electrical and plumbing installation much easier due to the space saved, thus providing more room for plumbers and electricians to fit pipes into walls. A single stud can take the place of complex structures or special framing to fit around mechanical and electrical wiring. The corners are also less likely to crack, because there is less framing to shrink or move, which is often the cause of this problem. Drywall studs are also economical, as they save on labor and material expenses.