Ultimate Construction Showdown: Wood Studs vs. Metal Studs

It’s time for the big show: Metal versus Wood. Both types of studs are great for construction. However, they each have unique talents that may lead to a knockout result in the right circumstances. When you put them in the ring together, who comes out victorious? That depends on where your fight is set.

Wood Studs

Wood studs are not as common as they used to be. However, they are still very prevalent and have many benefits. They are the classic that many contractors swear by.

Pros

Wood studs are highly available in most home improvement or lumber stores. Maintenance and repair of studs is fairly straight forward and requires standard tools any contractor would own. They are easy to cut. They are strong. They are also an eco-friendly choice because they are made from a renewable resource and require less energy to make and transport than steel.

Cons

Wood studs have serious weaknesses when it comes to insect damage, moisture accumulation, and fire resistance. To abate these weaknesses, these studs are often treated with chemicals and adhesives, which can be bad for the environment. Because they are a natural element, they are subject to variation in strength and straightness. To meet energy codes, doubling the materials may be necessary. It is also far more costly to build disaster-resistant structures using wood.

Metal Studs

Metal studs are used in about 40% of all commercial structures. They may not be the most traditional option, but they do have many benefits. Even though they are more expensive than wood studs, they are stronger and more durable.

Pros

Metal studs are formed through a manufacturing process that includes galvanization. This leads to perfectly uniform studs that do not react to moisture, pests, or fire. They are durable and strong while also being lightweight. Metal studs are lighter than wood studs. They are, therefore, easier to store and install. After installation, they don't require much effort in maintenance.

Cons

The process of cutting metal studs can be difficult and sometimes hazardous, and they do not install simply with traditional tools. Metal framing systems are more expensive than their wood counterparts. Even though metal studs are incombustible, they can lose strength when exposed to very high temperatures. Metal studs are not energy efficient and also can create echo-y acoustics.

Who Wins the Battle?

Since both wood and metal studs are good options, it really comes down to the need. Some of the best features of metal studs include that they are lightweight, easy to maintain, and resistant to fire and humidity. On the other hand, wood studs are classic. They can be cheaper, easier to cut than metal studs, and are a great option for environmentally conscious contractors. For some projects, wood studs may be your best bet.

No matter which stud wins the battle in your fight, impress your clients with fast results, high-quality work, and durability by installing your framework using FASCO® tools and SCRAIL® fasteners. These tools can make any material a champion. Download the SCRAIL® brochure by clicking the blue button for more info or visit the website at www.beck-scrail.com