Achieve Head-of-Wall Deflection with the New Slotted Flex-C Trac

Meeting the needs of contractors has always been Flex-Ability Concepts’ focus. That’s why our team has been working diligently on a new product. After all the development, research and planning, we released Slotted Flex-C Trac in March.

With a base name of “Flex-C Trac,” you are correct in recognizing that the Slotted version is an adaptation of the original Flex-C Trac. Slotted Flex-C Trac adds slotted legs for deflection to give framing contractors an additional method to create high-quality curved walls, columns and S-curves in specific applications.

The Slotted Flex-C Trac system is a head-of-wall deflection track that is used for framing exterior curtainwalls and non-load bearing interior walls. Like all Flex-Ability Concepts products, the track can be curved into shape by hand. This system allows for vertical live load movement of the primary structure without transferring axial loads to the studs in the wall.

“Contractors have long been frustrated by the lack of reliable options for achieving head-of-wall deflection in curved walls. By applying the patented technology behind the Flex-C Trac system, we’ve solved that problem in the creation of Slotted Flex-C Trac,” says Robert Widmer, Director of Sales and Marketing at Flex-Ability Concepts.

The Slotted Flex-C Trac system attaches to wall studs using the track’s vertical slots with wafer head screws. This creates a positive connection that allows for vertical movement.

For the installation, just like the original Flex-C Trac, first bend the Slotted Flex-C Trac by hand into the desired position. The pivotal sections make it easy to create the perfect curve with no uneven or flat spots. Next, on a hard surface like concrete, hammer the Hammer-Lock tabs to embed them into the web. This secures the shape. For added strength, install self-tapping screws into the side of the Flex-C Trac. The track can then be fastened to the floor or ceiling. This secured span of steel provides for a strong, solid installation. Finally, once the studs have been installed, use #10 x 9/16 inch wafer head screws for the stud-to-track connection. Screws should be placed a minimum of 3/8 inch from the end of the stud.

Slotted Flex-C Trac is available in 3 5/8 inch and 6 inch widths. Both of these options come in 16- and 20-gauge galvanized steel with a 3-inch leg. All the track options run 10 feet long. The 3-inch leg will allow up to 2 inches, plus or minus 1 inch, for vertical deflection.

If you have any questions or want to place an order, reach out to a local distributor or contact us directly. When you have completed an install of Slotted Flex-C Trac, tells us about it by contacting Micah Juengel at mjuengel@flexabilityconcepts.com.