May 2026 Product Focus: Drywall & Accessories
From structural performance to installation efficiency, steel framing remains a critical component in modern wall and ceiling construction.
Light Gauge Framing System
Elevate
The Alpha Framing System is a primary framing structure system that lends itself well to four- to seven-story tall buildings. Utilized in the storage construction industry, it is also moving into adjacent hotel, student and multi-family housing industries. Aside from comparable cost and the benefits of steel over wood that a steel framing system brings, this system is also proving to be more efficient, economical and flexible than other traditional load- bearing metal framing systems. Steel framing contractors are finding benefit in the speed of construction, or reduced crew sizes or lighter material handling. The system details consist of two patented light gauge steel cold-rolled formed assemblies, the T62 column and the Alpha Beam, constructed with traditional steel decking and concrete. Together, it is flexible enough to integrate into all lateral bracing designs, including, but not limited to, structural braced frames, bar bracing, strap bracing, tension rod systems, and concrete/CMU shearwalls. For more information, visit elevatecs.com.
Photo: Flex-Ability Concepts
Slotted Track for Curved Deflection
Flex-Ability Concepts
Slotted Flex-C Trac is a head-of-wall deflection track engineered for curved wall assemblies in both exterior curtainwall framing and non-load-bearing interior partitions. The addition of slotted legs allows controlled vertical movement while maintaining a positive stud connection using wafer head screws. The system is hand-bendable for field-formed curves, including radiused walls, columns and S-curves, with Hammer-Lock tabs to secure shape prior to fastening. Available in 3 5/8- and 6-inch widths, 16- and 20-gauge steel, the 3-inch leg accommodates up to 2 inches of vertical deflection, improving performance in dynamic structural conditions. For more information, visit flexabilityconcepts.com.
Photo: ClarkDietrich
Motion Frame Connector
ClarkDietrich
The company's ProSTUD Motion Frame Connector is for high-rise buildings, which can be prone to swaying during high wind events. The connector is designed to accommodate omnidirectional displacement and significantly reduce unwanted noise from steel-to-steel contact, creating a quieter and more comfortable environment for the building’s occupants. The product is designed to work with the company's ProSTUD Drywall Framing System and can be used in both new construction and retrofit applications. It is sound and UL rated for non-load bearing CFS stud wall. View installation videos at clarkdietrich.com/products/motion-frame-connector#installation.
Photo: CEMCO
Cost-Effective Fire-Rated Shaft Solution
CEMCO
CT Shaft Wall System is manufactured from hot-dipped galvanized steel with a standard G40 coating, available in 18- and 20-gauge thicknesses. CT studs, used in combination with standard CEMCO J-tracks, provide a cost-effective solution for shaft walls, stairwells and horizontal plenums requiring a minimum one-hour fire-resistance rating. The system is approved for use with multiple gypsum board and liner panel manufacturers in a range of one- and two-hour UL Listed shaft wall assemblies, supporting flexibility in specification and installation. Contact your CEMCO sales representative for additional information. For more information, visit cemcosteel.com.
Photo: Radius Track
Curved Framing Ready to Install
Radius Track
The company’s PARTS Online puts precision curved framing at builders’ fingertips. Whether tackling a unique design element or just needing a reliable curved component, the company’s online ordering system makes it simple. Get high-quality, ready-to-install curved framing parts in lengths from 18 inches to 16 feet, manufactured to your exact specifications with a 1/8-inch tolerance for easy finishing. It is precision-made for consistent quality, fast ordering with instant pricing and quick turnaround, has multiple profiles and gauge options, durable finishes and more. For more information, visit radiustrack.com.
Photo: Telling Ind.
Permanent Anchor With T-Block
Telling Ind.
The company’s T-Block Wall Blocking is a short piece of stud installed horizontally between two vertical studs. It provides a safe, permanent, and stable support point for heavy-mounted construction features like shelving, frames, cabinets, railings, or other fixed hardware. The product offering includes:
- Blocking Gauges: 16ga and 20ga (30 mil), G60 is standard
- Lengths: Sized to accommodate 12-, 16- and 24-inch on-center stud spacing
- Web Sizes: Fits 3-5/8-, 4-, 6-, 8-, 10- and 12-inch web sizes.
- Leg/Flange: 3 inch
- Industry Standard Blocking Nomenclature:
- TB362-300-S16-54, which is Track Blocking, 3-5/8 inch web, 3-inch flange, stud spacing of 16 inch on center, 54 mils thick
The company also carries light- and medium-duty mounting support for interior wall elements. For more information, visit tellingindustries.com.
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