Use a fine-toothed saw. For shaped cuts use a pad, keyhole or coping saw. Work fair face up and support the board throughout. A tungsten carbide-tipped power saw can also be used.

When nailing, position not less than 12mm from board edge without pre-drilling. Galvanised wire nails are recommended. Do not use lost head nails or panel nails. Boards can also be stapled, but not for fire resistance applications.

Use a hand drill or high speed power drill (not percussion type). Drill bits should have HSS tips. When drilling, always provide support to the back of the board to prevent break out.

F I X I N G

P L A N N I N G   &   S A N D I N G

S C R E W I N G

For non-fire resisting applications, boards should be supported at 610mm centres and fixed to supports at 300mm centres. In normal areas, cross noggins are required only at board joints. If increase impact resistance is required, 400mm support centres should be used with cross noggins at 1220mm centres.

The edges of the boards can be planed or smoothed with a surform, rasp or file. Use conventional glass or garnet papers for sanding.

When screwing, do not countersink 6mm boards. Pre-drilling is not necessary. Use wood or self-tapping screws. Screws should be at minimum of 12mm from board edges and 50mm from board corners.