Steel Stud vs. Traditional Wood Stud Framing: Right Choice for Your Project

If you want to divide a big area into smaller sections for bedrooms, bathrooms, or offices, stud partition walls are a good option. When selecting the materials for these walls, the two most popular framing choices are wood and metal studs. 

Which one is the right one? This guide shows how metal stud framing is different from wood stud walls. We'll talk about their pros and cons so you can choose which type is best for your job.

Steel stud construction involves using components made of cold-formed steel to build walls and surfaces. Lighter gauge metal studs are used in non-load-bearing applications such as interior walls, half-walls, and partitions.

You can usually find a steel stud at home centers,local hardware stores and specialty suppliers. They come in dimensions that match two-by-four wood studs and lengths ranging from 8 to 14 feet. A standard steel stud available at home centers is made of 25-gauge steel.

For lengths, you can choose from 8-foot, 10-foot, 11-foot, 12-foot, 13-foot, and 14-foot options. The web widths, the width of the stud's vertical section, include 1-5/8-inch, 2-1/2-inch, 3-1/2-inch, 3-5/8-inch, 4-inch, 5-1/2-inch, and 6-inch.

The studs also come with knockouts. The knockouts range from 3/4-inch to 1-1/2-inch in diameter, and you need to use bushings for all knockouts.

Moreover, steel studs use coarse drywall screws with coarse threads. They are used to secure gypsum boards to studs.

What Are Wood Studs?

Wood studs are boards that serve as framing elements in homes, supporting the walls. They are either 16 or 24 inches apart along the wall and extend from the floor to the ceiling. A drywall is attached to the edge of the studs.

A popular type of wood studs is light structural lumber. It is primarily used in residential construction. It is made from sawn and machine-planed softwood trees, available in standard dimensions like 2x4", 2x6", 2x8", and so on.

Wood stud uses drywall screws, with the coarse thread version. These are intended for securing drywall to wood, and the fine-thread version is for attachment to metal studs. The head-to-shaft junction of these screws is more curved than wood screws to prevent drywall tearing.

Features: Steel Stud vs. Wood Stud

Construction

Framing with a steel stud is commonly used in basement walls, DIY partition walls, or simple metal structures. They are used to support non-load-bearing walls. On the other hand, wood-frame construction is mostly used in building construction where exterior walls, load-bearing walls, partitions, floor and roof constructions, and their supports are made of wood.

Convenience

A steel stud is lighter and takes up less space due to its hollow shape. This makes them easier to transport, store in bulk, and maintain after installation. Meanwhile, wooden studs can be difficult to install, requiring various tools such as a table saw, nailer, hammers, and nails.

Popularity

In the past, wood was the preferred choice for framing studs, but steel stud is gaining popularity. Around 40 percent of commercial buildings now use metal studs, according to the Steel Framing Alliance (SFA).

Ease of installation

Steel framing is easier to handle as the studs are lighter and can be installed at wider intervals. Metal framing has become stronger compared to wood.

Stability

Wood can twist, warp, and retain moisture, leading to mold growth and rot, while metal studs do not. However, metal can rust, so a vapor barrier or sill gasket should be used between the bottom plate and the concrete floor.

Economical

A steel stud is more economical than wood, especially when made from recycled materials. Wood is generally more expensive than steel.

Steel vs. Wood Building Cost

Steel buildings are quicker, more convenient, cheaper, and easier to maintain. On average, steel homes cost 30 percent less per square foot than traditional homes.

Steel framing offers cost advantages in minimizing warranty callbacks due to its resistance to shrinkage, splitting, and warping. Overall, steel stud is more affordable than wood.

Lifespan

Steel studs have a longer life than wood studs due to their organic material.

Insects and Fire

Wood is susceptible to damage by insects like carpenter ants and termites, while steel is not. Additionally, wood is flammable, while metal studs are virtually fireproof.

In problem areas

Wood can warp and rot when exposed to water or humidity, making it difficult to protect during wet months. On the other hand, steel stud is moisture-resistant and works well in areas prone to water, such as bathrooms and basements.

Pros and Cons of Steel Stud Framing Over Traditional Wood Stud Framing

Steel stud offers several benefits over wood studs. First, it comes in standard sizes, ensuring consistency and ease of use. They also provide predictable quality, as they are manufactured with precision. 

Unlike wood studs, steel studs will not rot, making them more durable in humid or moist environments. Additionally, it is not prone to bowing or warping, which can affect the stability of the structure. 

Working with a steel stud can be more challenging as they are difficult to cut. Furthermore, finding it can be more challenging than wood studs, which generally come at a higher cost. 

Wood studs are available in standard sizes, but their quality can vary. Unless pressure treated, wood studs are susceptible to rot. They can also be prone to bowing or warping, affecting the installation process.

Furthermore, wood studs are easy to cut, making them more convenient for DIY projects. They are readily available and tend to be less expensive than a steel stud. It is important to note that wood studs are flammable, whereas steel stud is fireproof, providing an added safety benefit.

Book Now for Superior Steel Stud Framing

Framing with steel studs is an excellent option for those seeking a robust and secure structure capable of withstanding fire, natural disasters, and other potential hazards. If you need steel frame roofing or wall framing services, look no further than Orbital Walls and Ceilings.

Our team of experienced experts specializes in designing top-quality and efficient steel stud framing solutions. With our extensive knowledge and expertise in all aspects of steel stud framing projects, we are dedicated to surpassing your expectations. Join our growing base of satisfied customers and experience our exceptional services for yourself.

Call us today.