Wood framing is still the standard for residential construction, while metal studs are commonly associated with commercial buildings. There are many advantages for home building contractors to use steel framing members for homes. It's of great benefit to use when remodeling or making a home addition.
Steel Framing is Fire-Resistant
Where wood is extremely combustible, steel is not. When it gets hot enough it loses its tensile integrity and can turn into “spaghetti”, but the important consideration is that it won't contribute fuel to a home fire.
The result is that if a home fire does break out and the house is outfitted with smoke detectors and possibly a fire sprinkler system, occupants will have a much higher probability of evacuating the home safely.
Metal Studs Offer Earthquake Resistance
Metal framing has a decided advantage in areas prone to seismic activity such as California and Japan. In fact, according to Excalibur Steel Structures, homes designed and built this way can qualify for a seismic zone 4 rating.
In line with earthquake resistance, steel also fares better than wood frame construction in high wind conditions such as hurricanes and tornades, especially if the home is built with a metal roof instead of composition shingles.
Mold, Mildew, and Termite Proof
Termite damage is a thing of the past with metal frame construction. It's simply not a food for insects and pests, so they aren't attracted to it. Likewise, it doesn't harbor the moisture that mold and mildew need to exist and spread.
Just about the only wood on the market that offers these benefits is Bluwood. Bluwood is infused with boron which acts as an insecticide and seals the studs, joists, rafters, and trusses against water absorption.
Galvanized Steel is Environment Friendly
Much steel is recycled material, so it can be reused rather than taking up space in a landfill. Additionally, it reduces the need to cut down trees and all the logging expenses that go along with it.
There is also less scrap and waste generated at the construction site. Framing members are produced in standard lengths and when longer pieces are needed, they can simply be spliced together.
Get Homeowners Insurance Discounts
According to Excalibur Steel Structures, because of fire-resistance and superior performance in hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes, “some insurance companies label steel framing as "Superior Construction" and offer discounts on homeowners insurance and builders risk of up to 35 %.”
Benefits During the Construction Process
There are also benefits when it comes to the assembly and construction process. In many cases labor time is shortened. Although the heavier gauge studs and track that are used for exterior walls are cut with a sliding or compound miter saw, light gauge studs used for interior partitions are simply cut with aviation snips, saving time with each cut.
Drywall screws are used when hanging drywall rather than drywall nails, which results in easier taping and floating (drywall finishing), and eliminates nail pops and the repairs that result. Simply put, metal framing offers more advantages than conventional stick framing.
References:
- www.steelframing.org/Framework2009/Framework07-09/FrameworkOnlineJuly_09_Market4.htm
- www.toolbase.org/PDF/DesignGuides/BuildersSteelStudGuide.pdf
- www.excalibursteel.com/faqs.htm
Kelly Smith - Kelly has over 30 years experience as a journeyman carpenter and 20 as a freelance writer and photographer.
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