The high-rise framing system to mitigate internal wall creaking
As the construction industry continues to build higher than ever before, builders and developers face a persistent, costly challenge: internal wall creaking, popping, and groaning sounds that occur as the building sways. These sounds frustrate apartment and hotel residents and lead to multi-million-dollar repair attempts by builders and developers. So, how do we mitigate internal wall creaking in tall buildings and skyscrapers to avoid rectifications after the build is complete?
The answer: Studco Vortex High-Performance Framing System™.
Based on world-first research into this phenomenon, Studco Vortex now offers a genuine solution for creaking buildings within the global high-rise construction market, validated in real-world applications.
What does a creaking building sound like?
Tall Buildings and skyscrapers often creak and groan in the wind. Loudly! If you’ve ever experienced the eerie sound of a building creaking, then you know how disturbing it can be. The unsettling noises sometimes exceed 70dB and can last for hours, especially on a windy day.
If you haven’t heard a building creak, click the link below to listen to some of the recordings of creaking buildings around the world.
Melbourne
USA
Dubai
London
Sydney
Why do tall buildings creak?
Creaking building noises are common in both new and old buildings. There are several elements that can contribute to this phenomenon, with a primary cause being the stress and tension on internal steel framing systems, that result from vortex shedding and structural movement, such as concrete slab deflections or wind sway. With minimal data previously available, many builders faced costly repairs.
As a solutions-driven company, Studco was determined to work closely with key stakeholders in the construction industry to conduct extensive, world-first research investigating this problem and develop a genuine solution.
Vortex Research Presentation
Studco is committed to advancing construction through innovation. As a solutions partner, we want to share the important technical knowledge and research findings that led to the development of the Vortex System with developers, architects, engineers, and contractors. We encourage you to contact our experienced building solutions team and request a presentation about our Vortex Framing System. The presentation includes data collected from several buildings in different countries, and covers Studco’s research and testing journey over the last nine years in laboratory and real-world applications. The 1-hour session can be delivered in person or via Zoom by Studco’s building solutions team.
Is standard deflection head track fit for purpose?
Standard Deflection Head Track vs. Vortex Segmented Rebate Track
Key features of the Vortex framing system
Stud Isolation Clip
This clip isolates metal-on-metal contact at the stud-to-track connection.
Rigid Beam Top Track
The top track profile features a full-length rebated pan that significantly increases stiffness and rigidity.
Anti-Tension Kerfs
Engineered strain-relief kerfs provide a secondary measure to limit deformation.
Fixing Tab
Allows positive fixing to the substrate, even when faced with highly uneven concrete surfaces.
UL Solutions
Vortex High Performing Framing System product samples are classified as compliant in accordance with UL263; Fire Endurance Tests of Building Constructions and Materials. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services that support product innovation.
Recent Projects Using Vortex
The Vortex advantage in framing for tall buildings
- Noise Elimination: Steel-on-steel contact between wall studs and the head track is virtually impossible with the use of the Studco Vortex Isolation Clips.
- Tension Relief: Studco Vortex eliminates tension in the head track flanges caused by uneven concrete substrates.
- Installation Efficiency: The installation method is fast, similar to the standard wall system, requiring no special skills.
- Cost Control: Vortex is an economical solution that utilizes standard Studco wall studs and bottom track.
- Quality Assurance: Simple visual checking of the Vortex Isolation Clips ensures foolproof, quality installation without the need to screw-fix studs to the head track.
- Trusted Compliance: Vortex is the preferred solution trusted by leading architects, developers and builders for tall buildings and skyscraper framing projects.
- UL Classified: The Vortex High-Performance Framing System is classified as compliant in accordance with UL263 Fire Endurance Tests, ensuring peace of mind.
Vortex Product Range
Installation Gallery
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