What could be hidden behind the drywall that produces a hollow metallic sound when knocked on in this specific location during curtain rod installation in Washington?
Asked by Annemie Köppl 
4 weeks ago
Last Updated: October 26, 2024
Do you have any idea what might be behind this drywall? I was tapping on it with a screwdriver and it sounded kind of hollow and metallic. I’m trying to install curtain rods a few inches from the ceiling. The first support bracket went up fine on the left side of the window. I checked for vertical studs lower down the wall but couldn’t find any. After drilling, I finally used a studfinder and it detected something in that spot. I’m guessing it’s not a good idea to drill through it, right? (I just moved up to Washington and I’m not too familiar with house construction, so please don’t make fun of me!)
Seems like the drywall is around your window frame. So, there must be a stud on each side running up, about half an inch from the frame. There might not be a hole where you plan to drill. Go ahead with drilling. If there’s no stud, consider using anchors.
Possibly metal stud framing.
Someone mentioned it’s most likely a metal lintel.
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Hey , that’s accurate for the outside. However, it seems like there are metal studs or a metal strike plate here. You can try using a self-tapping screw. They are available at any hardware store.
Do you see any outlets close to or below the window? It might be a strike plate to prevent drilling into electrical wiring.
There should be a header above the window, but sometimes they take shortcuts and use regular studs. Try using a stud finder, you should be okay. They might have used aluminum/metal 2×4’s if it’s a commercial building.
Seems too high to be a window header or lintel. My guess is it’s some kind of strike plate.
Maybe there’s a heat/AC vent in the wall on the upper floor. Check if the room directly above has a vent.