When Are Deflection Heads Required?

Deflection heads are used within plasterboard partitions when needing to allow for movement (up, down or both) within the structure at the head of a partition. This movement (or deflection) is created by live and dead loads on the floor or roof above.

What is a deflection head track?

The Deflection Head Track allows a vertical movement from the ceiling/ roof. This vertical deflection prevents loads from being transferred to the studs.

What is stud deflection?

The deflection joint is the distance between the top of the stud framing to the underside of the substrate above (floor or roof member), as defined by the project's architect or structural engineer. ... The top of the gypsum wall board to the underside of the substrate should also equal this distance.