Why We Love Steel Studs - the Details You Need to Know!

Different materials are right for different types of jobs. Sometimes traditional wooden framing is more appropriate in a construction project. But don’t discount the alternative of steel studs. Cold-formed steel framing is produced from sheet steel that is then formed into the shapes and sizes of traditional lumber that is used in construction. There are many reasons why steel studs can improve your next build. We looked to the Steel Framing Alliance and Bethepro.com to outline some of these benefits.

• The strength and ductility of structural cold-formed steel (CFS) framing, along with the holding power of CFS connections, make it the ideal material for construction in high wind speed and seismic zones such as the U. S. eastern seaboard, the Gulf Coast states, California and Hawaii. 

• Characteristics such as non-combustibility, termite resistance, and dimensional stability can lower construction and home ownership costs. Carpenter ants and termites can severely damage wood construction, but they steer clear of metal. Likewise, wood burns and metal does not. A wall built with metal studs is more highly flame resistant. You also may enjoy significant discounts on risk insurance for steel framed structures.

• Warranty callbacks are minimized because steel does not shrink, split or warp. As a result, there are no nail pops or drywall cracks to fix after the structure is completed. Consistent quality means that scrap is drastically reduced (two percent for steel versus 20 percent for wood), which also reduces costs for hauling away and disposing discarded material.

• Each piece of CFS shipped to the jobsite contains a minimum of 25% recycled content and is 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan.

• Steel framing is easier to handle because steel studs weigh 1/3 less than wood studs, and can be installed at 24” on center.

• A recent study, conducted by the NAHB Research Center, showed that the zinc coating on steel framing materials could protect against corrosion for hundreds of years.

If you’re considering steel studs for your next construction project, then you need to consider the right construction fasteners for the job. Pneumatic tools and SteelThread^® SCRAIL fasteners are ideal for a steel stud building. SteelThread^® SCRAIL provides excellent holding power in steel studs and allows for easy removal or adjustment afterwards, without damaging the material. 

Get more information on SteelThread SCRAIL^® fasteners and choosing the right fastener for your construction by downloading our brochure here: