Recommended Tools

Recommended Tools for Installation of Interior Steel Soffits, "JGI Interlock™ Concealment Systems"

1. Aviation Shears/Snips may be used for cutting material in lighter gauges, such as our 24 Gauge material. A hand seamer or hand break also assists with custom fabrications. For cutting material to length, notching and cutting holes for sprinkler heads or other devices in heavier gauges, a plasma cutter is typically sufficient. Other useful tools include a die grinder, industrial grade jigsaw or hand held saber saw/metal cutter.
2. If more than a few dozen outlet holes are required, a carbide tipped hole saw is recommended. This tool expedites hole cutting and increases accuracy. When using this tool, you will also need a power drill with a higher RPM and at least a 1/2” chuck. Standard hole saw sizes for sprinkler head cut-outs are between 2” and 2 3/4”.
3. When encountering concrete structures a rotary hammer drill is essential for anchoring the cover clips. Typically, 3/16” x 8” length SDS carbide tipped hammer drill bits work well.
4. A high speed rotary drill, along with a 1/8” x 3” hardened steel bit, is required to drill rivet holes and in cut ends, cutting out sprinkler head holes, etc.

Additional suggested tools:

• A Chalk Line (For Determining Shield Clip Placement)
• An 8” x 12” Steel Frame Square
• A Combination Square (For Measuring Angles)
• Medium-Size Rubber Mallet or Dead-Blow Type Hammer
• 2 – 3 Pry Bars/Nail Pullers (For Reaching Behind the Cover to Spread Shield Cover Clips and Other Fittings)
• 25’ Tape Measure
• Cordless Drill for Anchoring Fasteners in Drywall and Drilling Pop Rivet Holes
• Caulk Gun
• Metal File (To Smooth Field Cut Edges)

Required Accessories:

• Pop Rivets (1/8"Diameter x 1/4"Length) of Matching Material/Finish
• Substrate Appropriate Anchors/Fasteners
• Commercial Grade (Sonneborn® NP-1) or Institutional Grade (Sonneborn® Ultra) Sealant
• Safety Glasses and Tool Belts