Using the Prest-on Fastener System

This guide simplifies the process of hanging drywall using metal clips instead of extra wood blocking. This method saves lumber, improves insulation, and creates walls that resist cracking.

1. The Three Main Tools

Before you start, identify the three clips used in this system:

• Corner-Back: Used for inside corners where two walls meet.
• Insta-Back: Used to join two sheets of drywall together between studs (floating joints).
• Framer-Back: Used where the ceiling meets the wall.

2. Framing Corners (Vertical Walls)

Traditionally, you need three or four studs to make a solid corner. With this system, you only need two.

The Setup

• Reduce Lumber: Frame your corner using only 2 studs—one running in each direction.
• Insulation Benefit: Because there is less wood blocking the corner, you can run insulation all the way through without gaps or voids.

Installation Steps

1. Placement: Install the Corner-Back clips onto the stud that will support the drywall edge.
2. Spacing: Place clips every 16 inches on center (O.C.).
3. Top & Bottom: You do not need a clip at the very top or the very bottom of the drywall sheet.
4. Seam Alignment: When placing a clip near a seam (where two sheets meet), place the clip 1 inch away from the tapered edge of the seam.
5. Install: Screw or nail the drywall into the clips. Then, install the perpendicular (adjacent) drywall sheet so it butts up against the first one.

3. Joining Drywall Sheets (The "Floating" Joint)

You don't need to cut your drywall so the edge lands perfectly on a stud. You can join sheets in the open space between studs using Insta-Back clips.

The Setup

• Less Waste: You can use scrap pieces or run sheets past studs and break them anywhere in the stud bay.
• Strong Joints: The clips create a joint between studs that is as strong as a solid sheet.

Installation Steps

1. Placement: Attach Insta-Back clips along the edge of the installed drywall sheet.
2. Spacing: Place clips every 16 inches O.C..
3. Staggering: Ensure that the butt joints (where ends meet) are staggered between the upper and lower sheets (don't create one long vertical line).
4. Taping: The patented design allows for a perfect finished joint that won't snag your taping tools.

4. Handling Windows and Doors

Don't throw away drywall cutouts! This system lets you use scraps around windows and doors easily.

The Setup

• Overhang: Run your main drywall sheets 6 inches past the opening on each side.
• Scraps: Use the drywall cutouts (waste) to fill in the header (top) and sill (bottom) of the window/door.

Installation Steps

1. Secure the Sheet: Fasten the main sheet to the plates and studs as usual.
2. Add Clips: Place Insta-Back clips on the edge of the drywall in the center of the opening space. Use one clip if centered, or space them 16" O.C. if the opening is wider than 32 inches.
3. Insert Scrap: Fit your scrap piece into the opening and fasten it to the clips.

5. Ceiling Attachment

This method allows the ceiling drywall to "float" slightly in the corners. This flexibility prevents the ugly cracks that often appear where walls meet ceilings due to truss uplift.

The Setup

• No "Deadwood": You don't need to install extra wood backing (lumber meant just for nailing) at the ceiling corners.
• Framing Position: Ensure the first ceiling framing member (truss/joist) is between 7 and 24 inches away from the wall.

Installation Steps

1. Select Clip:
• Use Corner-Back clips for exterior walls running parallel to the truss.
• Use Framer-Back clips for interior walls.
2. Spacing: Place clips 12 inches O.C. in the field.
3. Seams: Place the first clip 1 inch away from the taper at the seam.
4. Truss Bays: If running drywall parallel to trusses, you can join sheets between trusses using Insta-Back clips spaced at 16" O.C.. For a 3-way connection at the end, rotate the clip 90 degrees.