RSIC-1® Backer

Use RSIC-1 Backer to hang something heavy, such as a TV, cabinet, or speaker. It works on walls and ceilings isolated with RSIC-1 or RSIC-1 Retro clips. The Backers carry a 16 gauge steel track that your mounting hardware screws into. The weight goes to the framing instead of the drywall, so the wall keeps its isolation.

RSIC-1 Backer has an acoustical design load of 108 lbs per Backer. RSIC-1 Backer HD has a design load of 216 lbs per Backer. For a cabinet, count the cabinet's own weight and everything you will store in it. Call us at 1-800-679-8511 and we can help you plan the number of Backers for your load.

You need at least 2 Backers, one for each side of the 16 gauge steel track. Plan on a Backer on every other stud for framing at 16" o.c., or on every stud for framing at 24" o.c. In every case, Backers must be no more than 48" o.c. Heavier items need more Backers. Call us at 1-800-679-8511 and we can help you size it for your project.

Yes, RSIC-1 Backer is made for things like mounting TVs. The Backers and steel track carry the TV's weight to the framing, not to the drywall. Your RSIC-1 clips keep isolating the wall the way they did before, so the wall keeps its sound rating with the TV up. Put the Backers where the TV will hang and seal the drywall perimeter and any penetrations with acoustical sealant.

RSIC-1 Backer HD doubles the acoustical design load, from 108 lbs to 216 lbs per Backer. Both are 4" wide x 6" long x 1-5/8" deep and install the same way. Backer HD uses heavier #10 or #12 screws instead of #8.

You need RSIC-1 Backers, RSIC-1 or RSIC-1 Retro clips, 25 gauge hat channel with a hemmed edge detail, and 16 gauge steel track (C-channel). You also need screws, 5/8" drywall, and acoustical sealant. The steel track is 1-1/4" deep and 6" wide. The table lists the right screw for each connection. Never fasten the clips with nails. The RSIC-1 Backer install guide has the details.

First install the RSIC-1 clips and snap in the 25 gauge hat channel with a hemmed edge detail as usual. Then add the Backers with the method that fits your project.

If you know where heavy items will hang

Screw RSIC-1 Backers on the same horizontal plane as the clips, between the clips, at the spots that need extra support. Fasten the steel track to the Backers with 4 self-drilling screws per Backer, so the track sits flush with the hat channel. Attach 5/8" drywall as normal and seal the perimeter with acoustical sealant. Then screw your item into the steel track.

If you want to hang items anywhere

Install 3 rows of Backers for a standard wall, no more than 48" apart. Fasten steel track to the Backers. Mount 5/8" or 3/4" plywood to the track across the whole wall, after marking the hat channel locations on the plywood face. Attach 5/8" drywall through the plywood into the hat channel. You can then screw items into the plywood anywhere. Always support the plywood with Backers and steel track, never with the hat channel alone.

The install guide has drawings of both methods.

Any drywall distributor sells steel track, also called C-channel. Ask for 16 gauge steel track that is 6" wide and 1-1/4" deep.

Yes, RSIC-1 Backer works on both walls and ceilings built with wood, steel, or concrete. It installs alongside RSIC-1 clips.

RSIC-1 Backer works with RSIC-1 clips and with RSIC-1 Retro clips. For a retrofit over existing drywall, use the washers that come with the RSIC-1 Backers. The Backer installs the same way with either clip. Using RSIC-V clips? Call us at 1-800-679-8511 for a quote on RSIC-V Backers.

Yes, RSIC-1 Backer and Backer HD are used in a large variety of UL rated design assemblies. Reach out to us for help with your assembly.

Yes, RSIC-1 Backer and Backer HD are assembled in the USA.