Cold formed metal framing vs light gauge metal framing. Apr 1, 2025 · The Steel Network, Inc.
Cold formed metal framing vs light gauge metal framing. Nov 21, 2024 · 1. 029 inch (20 Ga. But what sets light gauge steel apart from heavy gauge steel? And how does it contribute to sustainability and design flexibility? Free architectural library for cold formed structural metal studs and framing design information - including sizes, specification and details - primarily for walls. Learn which steel system suits your building project best in terms of strength, cost, and application. Vertical slotted top track for use with nonstructural and structural steel stud framing. Our company specializes in commercial stud and track, truss packages, prefab walls and, on request, residential prefab walls and trusses. Wood is light and via stick framing speeds construction with no heavy tools or equipment. It is incredibly strong, handles lateral and vertical loads effectively and is renowned for its high tensile strength. Jun 3, 2025 · This guide answers top questions on steel framing, cold-formed steel, steel trusses, and roll forming machines in modern construction. CFS is manufactured through a precision roll-forming process, which enhances its tensile strength while keeping the material lightweight. Jan 23, 2025 · Light Gauge Steel Framing Systems are revolutionizing modern construction, combining cold-formed steel, strength, flexibility, and sustainability in ways traditional materials just can’t keep up with. This publication is speciically designed to help you as a contractor, engineer or architect ind the right steel framing components for your projects. In the 1940s and 1950s, the American Iron and Steel Institute and other organizations began to establish standards for its design and use, providing a foundation for the industry to grow. In this article, we’ll break down what COLD-FORMED STEEL FRAMING Priceless HDR Header & Kwik-Jamb System Jul 1, 2020 · Light-gauge metal and wood remain two of the most commonly used building materials to frame walls. Unmatched Wind Resistance Steel framing’s resistance to high winds makes it a standout choice for areas exposed to tropical storms, cyclones and other severe storms. Here are some common ones useful for residential and commercial construction. CFS, also called light-gauge steel or metal stud framing, is typically referred to as light-framed construction. We typically indicate the LG Mtl Framing is to be performance designed by a licensed engineer in our spec and in our plan notes Sep 10, 2022 · Unlike cold-formed steel framing and structural studs, which are much thicker and much heavier, light gauge steel studs are much lighter but compare nicely to wood wall studs. The material is increasing in popularity as an alternative for wood framing or heavy structural steel framing. Codes and Standards The mostly widely adopted model building code in North America is the International Building Code (IBC), available from the International Code Council Store. Nov 19, 2021 · As stated previously, light steel framing is one of the construction methods that uses cold-formed steel sections to develop a structural framework for buildings. Both structural and light gauge steel make for excellent framing materials in all manner of construction designs. Apr 1, 2025 · The Steel Network, Inc. Discover why this versatile steel design is outmatching everything else. Light gauge steel is used for interior framing, exterior cladding, and roofing. What We Do Framecor is an Arizona based company focused on providing modular steel framing solutions for builders in Phoenix and the surrounding areas. x 20 ft pressure-treated piece of structural wooden framing costs around $16. That’s why we carry a wide selection of metal framing, studs, and tracks to support all types of projects. This page breaks down the industry-standard nomenclature, including metal framing gauges charts, flange widths, and depth classifications to help you choose the right steel framing components. Explore the differences between light gauge and structural steel framing. These sheets are typically hot-dipped galvanized or zinc‐aluminium coated to prevent corrosion 1 . Jan 2, 2025 · Explore the benefits, costs, and installation of a steel framing system in modern construction. This clear-cut comparison provides essential insights to influence your decision, without overwhelming details or sales pitches. But when you add in the product scope, design innovations and technical expertise that a company like ClarkDietrich alone can provide, the opportunities before you take on an entirely new dimension. Welding is not recommended for cold-formed members 0. Local buckling of these thin elements is one of the major design criteria. Cold formed steel sections include steel studs, tracks and joists that are assembled together to form the load bearing skeletal structure. If you have questions about metal stud framing, cold formed steel bridging, or light gauge metal in general, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 1-888-474-4876. Apr 23, 2019 · When these factors are account for, metal studs are the obvious choice. Cold-formed steel is a light-gauge material, limited in span and load capabilities. 78, while an equivalent 20 ft. A stud and a track are the two main elements of metal stud framing. Whether cold-formed steel stud framing is fastened together by screws or welding depends on the steel thickness and contractor workforce capabilities. This blog addressed differences between steel framing & wood framing. Light Gauge Steel/Cold-Formed Steel Codes For simple residential home, the prescriptive method could be used in the International Residential code, IRC. LGS is manufactured through a cold-formed process, resulting in precise and consistent shapes. Nov 14, 2023 · Light gauge steel generally refers to thinner, lighter steel sheets that can be bent and shaped. 1 General: The provisions of this section shall control the construction of exterior steel wall framing and interior load-bearing steel framing for buildings not more than 60 feet long perpendicular to the joists or truss span Pinnacle LGS – Light Gauge Steel Framing System The leader in cold formed light gauge steel framing solutions. Unlike hot-formed structural I-Beams, neither process requires heat to form the For medium-sized commercial building, framing often uses both structural and light gauge steel. As a leading steel structure manufacturer, we’ve seen firsthand how this innovative system is changing the game in building design and construction. It is strong, durable, and moisture resistant, making it an ideal choice for construction projects. Wood Structural Studs ClarkDietrich Cold-Formed Steel C-Studs (C-Series™) Cold-Formed / Light-Gauge C-shaped framing members for axial load-bearing walls, curtain walls, tall interior partitions, floor joists and roof truss assemblies. The example given is -030, meaning it is 20 gauge 30 mil steel. Apr 1, 2024 · Cold Formed Steel (also known as CFS, Steel Framing, Light Gauge Steel & LGS), is one of the most sustainable materials used in modern buildings and is increasingly popular due to environmental factors as well as cost and efficiency. commercial construction, cold-formed steel is a popular material choice for framing non-structural interior walls, load-bearing interior and exterior walls, floor joists, and curtain walls. Framecor uses cold formed steel technology to fabricate and assemble light gauge steel wall panels, trusses, and joists in our facility in central Phoenix. Jul 20, 2024 · Metal framing is cold-formed to create long, thin sheets, which are shaped through rollers into guided C or Z patterns capable of holding heavy loads. Metal framing is a key component of many construction applications. Light-gauge steel (also known as cold-formed steel and cold-rolled steel) is a cold-formed material that is used to make construction processes smoother and products Structural Design of Light Gauge Steel / Cold-formed Steel Since the light gauge steel members are usually so thin, these thin elements may buckle at stress levels less than the yield point if they are subjected to compression, shear, bending or bearing. 1 SUMMARY Section Includes: Non-Structural Cold-Formed Metal Framing for: Interior non-load bearing steel studs for wall assemblies. My confusion comes from the answer to one of the case study questions on the PDD practice exams. A Light Gauge Steel Building System You Can Trust Metal trusses and framing provide a unique solution for builders, general contractors, and DIYers across the USA and Canada. 62 inch) flange and is 16-ga (54 mils) thick. The two primary applications for cold-formed metal framing are curtain wall or load bearing framing (structural framing) and interior non-structural (drywall framing). M. As a result, engineers had to provide stamped drawings for each job. The light gauge steel is also called cold formed steel which comes from the process by which steel members are formed. So, our 25 gauge equivalent would read -25T in the mil With anticipated improvements in understanding of the behavior of cold-formed steel framing and the continuing development of new technology, this material may eventually become dated. Structural studs carry axial load for load-bearing applications like ceilings, floor joists, roof trusses, exterior walls, and curtain wall applications. 1, which includes: floor and roof systems, structural Efficient Light Gauge Steel Design with Summit Engineering Light gauge, or ‘cold-formed’ steel is most commonly used for wall, floor and roof framing. For structural and non-structural framing, light gauge steel framing offers many advantages. Jul 26, 2023 · Light Gauge Steel (LGS), often referred to as cold-formed steel, is a popular material in modern construction due to its numerous advantages in structural framing. Here we summarise ten key reasons why more and more construction businesses are shifting away from timber framing to light gauge steel (LGS, also called cold formed steel). This will highlight both the similarities Application in areas such as domestic framing systems is gaining traction and newer application areas such as for modular construction and primary structural framing in mid-level buildings are taking advantage of steel's strength, stiffness, robustness, dimensional stability and environmental resistance. can often be more economical and decrease construction time. ” The properties of cold-formed steel are impressive, and the applications are many. Metal stud manufacturers are required to stamp the stud size and gauge on each product. Apr 4, 2025 · What Is Metal Stud Framing? Metal stud framing is the use of cold-formed steel components to build interior and exterior walls. When selecting the right steel studs for construction, understanding metal stud sizes, steel thicknesses, web depths, and flange sizes for standard stud or equivalent gauge stud sizes is crucial. PART 1- GENERAL 1. Syken Course Outline In this course, we will examine the sustainability, manufacture, pros/cons, workability and application of Light Gauge Metal Framing (LGMF). What is cold formed steel? Cold formed steel members (sometimes called light gauge steel) are made from structural-quality sheet steel that’s formed into shaped either through free-braking blank sheared from sheets or coils, or more commonly, by roll-forming the steel through a series of dies. Oct 23, 2024 · When it comes to cold-formed steel (CFS) framing, engineers, architects, and builders have choices to make regarding stud spacing, most commonly 16 inches on center (o. In this post, we’ll explore the subtle differences (and striking similarities) between cold formed steel and light Gauge steel, terms often used interchangeably in the context of modern “light steel framing. What standards govern the manufacture and physical requirements of cold-formed steel products?View ClarkDietich's Material Certification Page for more information on code approvals and performance standards. No heat is required to form the shapes (unlike hot-rolled steel), hence the name cold-formed steel. Aug 26, 2014 · I am trying to streamline my documentation process and would like to ask the SE community what they do to cover Light-guage metal framing as a delegated design item. The details contained in this document are intended as a general guide for using Steel Stud Manufacturers Association (SSMA) member products. Corrosion and rust are potential weaknesses of a steel building material, but with modern zinc coatings, corrosion is avoided. Oct 4, 2024 · Learn how to identify cold-formed steel framing thickness by code, color, or gauge, plus explore common CFMF sizes and shapes. Its hallmark characteristics, including strength, durability, and The Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) is dedicated to expanding the market for cold-formed steel in construction through programs and initiatives that promote the use of cold formed steel framing as a sustainable and cost-effective solution, advocate the development and acceptance of favorable code provisions, educate members with reliable data and other critical information that is Oct 1, 2009 · They state the following: “Cutting, notching and boring holes in nonstructural cold-formed steel wall framing. Sep 13, 2024 · Light gauge steel framing (LGSF) is a modern construction method that uses thin, cold-formed sheets of steel to create structural frameworks. The case study is about a 10,000 sf renovation in a manufacturing facility. Resources McClure’s structural team brings extensive experience in building design—and now you can take advantage of our custom Bluebeam Revu tools, designed for efficient sketching of cold-formed steel connections. Aug 1, 2000 · Thanks to new prescriptive tables, light-gauge steel floor framing is as simple to use as I-joists or solid lumber Steel framing has so many advantages over wood — including dimensional stability, consistent pricing, and resistance to rot and termites — that I’m convinced it will claim more and more of wood’s market share in the […] Thickness in Mils The three numbers after the dash (-) will identify the thickness of the steel in thousands of an inch. Light Gauge Steel Framing is often used in residential and light commercial construction due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and ease of installation. Metal framing lasts longer and is suitable for houses or commercial buildings. The main material used in light-gauge steel framing is galvanized steel, which is steel coated with a layer of zinc to prevent rusting. This additional EQ coating is applied to the already zinc-coated steel before the material is formed into metal studs. May 1, 2025 · Knowing a little more about both steel and wood framing, you can make an informed decision about which option is better for your building. If you’re looking for higher quality, now might be a good time to consider building a metal house. What’s more, we’ve worked to make this the industry’s most comprehensive technical support document for cold-formed steel framing. This form of steel exhibits outstanding flexibility and efficiency during the fabrication process, rendering it a preferred choice for many developers and architects. Made from cold-formed steel sections, this lightweight yet strong material is widely used in framing walls, roofs, and floors across both residential and commercial projects. and How Can I Use It? Because cold-formed steel (CFS) framing is light weight, extremely strong, noncombustible, and relatively easy to install, it has dominated the market for interior, non-loadbearing partition walls in commercial construction. Jan 8, 2024 · Light gauge steel (LGS) framing is a construction method that utilizes cold-formed steel sections to construct the structural framework of buildings, typically consisting of columns and beams. Expect a practical breakdown of uses, costs, and project-specific recommendations for cold formed steel vs structural steel. Light Steel Framing: Steel Grades, Properties, and Standards Light-gauge framing (“LSF”) uses cold‐formed, high-strength steel sheets that are roll-formed into studs, tracks, joists, etc. (TSN) is a manufacturer of light gauge (cold-formed) steel studs and connectors based in the United States, with locations in North Carolina, Texas, and Arizona. ) and 24 inches on center. Dec 11, 2024 · Learn how to interpret various material and steel thickness standards in cold-formed steel construction and the impact on steel framing design and construction. Design of the light gauge for this project shall be provided by the contractor’s structural engineer for the loads shown on the construction documents Steel framing, also known as cold-formed steel (CFS) framing or light gauge steel (LGS) or LGSF, is a modern construction material that offers strength and durability, making it a preferred choice for many builders. Cold formed steel structures are both lightweight and strong, helping the job to get completed quickly. The development of light gauge steel, called cold-formed steel, is more recent. Jun 25, 2024 · Choosing between cold formed steel vs structural steel? Understand their core differences and where each excels in construction. Include layout, spacings, sizes, thicknesses, and types of cold-formed steel framing; fabrication; and fastening and anchorage details, including mechanical fasteners. Cold-Formed Steel (CFS) —also called Light Gauge Steel or metal studs—is cold-formed into “C” or “Z” shaped members, capable of holding heavy loads. Flanges and lips of nonstructural cold-formed steel wall studs shall not be cut or notched. The Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) is dedicated to expanding the market for cold-formed steel in construction through programs and initiatives that promote the use of cold-formed steel framing as a sustainable and cost-effective solution, advocate the development and acceptance of favorable code provisions, educate members with reliable data and other critical information that is Nov 1, 2003 · Each stud manufacturer used to have its own method for assembling buildings. ViperStudTM Drywall Framing System Products. Cold-formed steel also known as light gauge steel (LGS) structures, can withstand wind forces that would cause severe damage to other types of buildings. Structural steel comprises heavier sections and beams for the main framing elements. Aug 23, 2023 · Learn about the difference between cold-formed steel framing and structural steel framing methods and which one is more effective. … The construction industry is embracing a younger and stronger framing material that delivers benefits for architects, contractors, developers and tenants. They are intended to provide designers and contractors with guid- ance on design, detailing, and construction of low-rise residential buildings that utilize cold-formed steel framing members. Light Gauge Steel Framing and Construction Rollforming Machinery – High-Precision Cold Formed Steel Framing Machines by UNBAK. In this post, we’re focusing on non-structural metal framing, including the key advantages and considerations that may help lower the cost of your next project. Nov 18, 2020 · Cold formed steel is commonly used for framing, with cold formed steel studs, tracks and purlins being utilized daily for curtainwall, load bearing, panelized construction, roof trusses, and floor joists. Acronyms will be used in this article: CFS (Cold Formed Steel) and LGS (Light-gauge Steel) Feb 1, 2023 · Light Gauge Steel - Light gauge steel is an option that is cold-formed. Apr 29, 2023 · Metal stud framing is a construction method that uses cold-formed steel components, including studs and tracks fastened with screws. While both of these types of structures offer clear benefits, there are some key differences between them that should be taken into consideration before making a decision. Feb 8, 2022 · Light gauge steel, or cold-formed steel (CFS), is a lighter grade of steel that is easier to handle. Feb 2, 2024 · Metal stud framing vs Traditional Wood Framing Costs As of February 2024, a 2 in. Coiled steel stock (as shown below) is produced to stringent material grades and coating classes, so Jun 10, 2019 · Light Steel Framing News & Information about TSN News and Cold - Formed Steel Framing. Mar 29, 2023 · A light gauge steel building (LGS) is a type of construction that uses cold-formed steel framing members, made from thin sheet steel, as the primary structural support for the building. In load-bearing walls and structural applications, such as exterior walls, heavier gauge metal studs are used. Jul 17, 2021 · Unsure whether LGSF or structural steel is the way to go? FSW will enlighten you about the differences between light gauge framing and structural steel. May 12, 2025 · In this article, I answer ten of the most frequently asked questions about FRAMECAD systems and cold-formed steel, also known as light gauge steel construction, giving you practical insights to avoid costly mistakes and maximize efficiency on-site. Section R603. This tells you the stud is 6 inches wide with a 1-5/8 inch (1. Cold formed steel is incredibly versatile because you can use it in almost any part of the framing process, regardless of the building size. Feb 24, 2025 · Practical comparison of steel vs wood framing in residential and commercial applications. These are notably different than EQ 20 gauge studs used commonly in public Cold-Formed Steel (CFS), also known as Light Gauge Steel (LGS), experiences various buckling modes, including local, global, and distortional buckling, with the interaction between these modes often playing a critical role in the failure of light gauge steel members. For project-specific needs or custom solutions, please use our request a quote form. PAF pins are used for permanent attachments and are the most common type used for cold-formed construction. A system that saves valuable steps and labor, while pushing the performance of today’s buildings to new heights. Finally, it shows the steel strength to be 50 ksi. Expert guidance on roll forming and cold-formed steel design. In regards to the 2018 IBC, section 2211 references AISI S240-2015, which is the cold-formed steel framing code standard for structural metal framing. Lighter gauge metal studs are utilized in non-load-bearing applications. It is anticipated that AISI will publish updates of this material as new information becomes available, but this cannot be guaranteed. The strength and flexibility of light gauge steel frame has led to increased spans, custom openings, curved wall, and different external façade treatments. Cold formed sections are generically different from hot rolled steel sections, such as Universal Beams, which are used in fabricated steelwork. Mar 6, 2024 · We have become familiar with a lot the various framing details through this process. Sep 19, 2022 · CFS, also called light-gauge steel or metal stud framing, is typically referred to as light-framed construction. Jun 16, 2022 · Cold-Formed Steel (CFS) —also called Light Gauge Steel or metal studs—is cold-formed into “C” or “Z” shaped members, capable of holding heavy loads. CFS framing and wood framing cost about the same if you include the cost of construction insurance, which is higher for wood. Construction and Material Costs What is Light Gauge Steel Framing? Light gauge steel framing members, sometimes called cold-formed steel, are made from structural quality steel sheets that are formed into shapes either through press-braking blanks sheared from sheets or coils or, more commonly, by roll-forming the steel through a series of dies. Metal framing is cold formed to create long, thin sheets shaped through rollers into guided C or Z patterns capable of holding heavy loads. Jul 31, 2021 · It is my understanding that structural metal framing belongs in Division 05, while non-structural metal framing belongs in Division 09. This technique, which involves bending steel into shapes without heat, offers a lightweight yet durable solution for constructing residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. For instance, ClarkDietrich labels 6-inch, 16-gauge studs with CD600S162-54 50 KSI. These sheets are cold-formed, which involves shaping metal at room temperature using rollers and presses. Following the roots of AISI S240-2015, it references the 2012 main standard for AISI (S100-12). The vertical and horizontal structural elements are primarily formed by a system of repetitive framing members. Sep 4, 2025 · From framing to finishing, from interior to exterior, from digital tools to engineering expertise, our leading products and services work as a system. Here are some of the advantages of it: The metal framing industry stopped using gage thicknesses and started using minimum base steel thicknesses. May 29, 2025 · Cold-formed framing, in contrast, is essentially “stud wall” logic—only in steel instead of lumber. Light Gauge Metal Framing A Sustainable Alternative to Wood J. This type of construction is also commonly referred to as light steel framing or LSF. The owner asks that the existing masonry walls be furred out to provide a newly Apr 6, 2022 · Light gauge steel framing is a construction method that cold formed steel sections to create a structural framework for buildings, which at its simplest is an assembly of columns and beams. The many performance-based characteristics and green attributes of cold-formed steel framing have enabled architects to design structures that are safer and more durable, dynamic as well as sustainable. By utilizing light gauge steel, we are able to manufacture metal trusses and metal framing that are stronger, lighter, and longer-lasting than wood. Sep 19, 2023 · Light gauge steel framing (LGSF) is a type of construction technology that uses thin sheets of cold-formed steel as its construction material. Jan 18, 2023 · Structural metal studs / Light-gauge steel framing are used in axial load-bearing walls, curtain walls, interior partitions, floor joists, and roof trusses. x 6 in. A. Metal studs are The American Iron and Steel Institute Committee on Framing Standards has developed AISI S220, North American Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Nonstructural Framing, to address requirements for construction with nonstructural members made from cold-formed steel. Light gauge steel framing is a construction technique that uses cold-formed steel sections to create the structural framework of buildings. Light gauge steel framing uses thinner steel sheets, typically 12 to 20 gauge. CEMCO manufacturers hundreds of configurations of code compliant cold-formed steel framing studs and tracks with various web depths, flange/leg heights, return lips all from hot-dipped galvanized steel ranging from 33 mils to 118 mils in base metal thicknesses. COFS Mission • To eliminate regulatory barriers and increase the reliability and cost competitiveness of cold-formed steel framing in residential and light commercial building construction through improved design and installation standards. 16” o. Specifying Cold-Formed Steel Framing As the data requirements on construction projects become more complex, it’s cru-cial that everyone in the value chain, including architects and structural engineers, operate under the same set of project requirements. Fewer locations for resisting lateral (wind) loads are required to create a stiff structural steel frame, providing more flexibility in space planning. The supply chain for cold-formed light gauge steel is well developed and design Standards TLG is a complete steel framing system for light gauge & cold-formed steel fabrication. Sep 25, 2022 · Diagrams and dimensions of common light gauge (cold formed) metal framing members are shown, including metal studs, C-H Studs, and various furring shapes. Metal Framing, Studs, and Tracks Metal framing is also known as steel stud framing, light gauge steel framing (LGSF), and cold-formed steel framing. What is Framing? Framing uses cold-formed or light-gauge steel components to create structural frameworks for buildings. Dec 2, 2024 · In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at LGSF and traditional steel framing, comparing the two on important factors to help you decide which is best for your needs. SPEC WRITER NOTE: Retain the paragraph below when cold-formed metal framing is indicated to withstand specific design loadings. Yet, many A/Es continue to specify metal framing by gage. 1. Defining EQ coatings for nonstructural steel framing EQ coatings, also sometimes referred to as organic, inter-reactive, reactive-polymer, or conversion coatings, are added to zinc-coated steel coils to enhance the corrosion resistance of the existing base coating. At its core, this method involves assembling columns and beams to form a load-bearing skeleton. These components are precision-engineered for consistency, ensuring faster assembly and reduced waste. Nov 21, 2024 · Cold-formed steel structural studs and non-structural metal framing are both frequently used building materials, but they have distinct differences. Jan 16, 2023 · However, cold-formed steel, unlike wood framing, doesn’t retain water, making it stable and more robust over time. Light gauge steel construction is very similar to wood framed construction in principle - the wooden framing members are replaced with thin steel sections. […] Dec 10, 2024 · Here's why light gauge steel vs concrete is a debate developers should seriously consider and why steel framing also known as cold-formed steel framing (CFS), often outperforms concrete construction. Section 2211 is explicitly for cold-formed steel light-frame construction. Understanding Cold Formed Steel CFS – Light Gauge Steel: In the world of modern construction, steel framing has become an increasingly popular choice due to its durability, efficiency, and sustainability. Metal framing is cold-formed to create long, thin sheets, which are shaped through rollers into guided C or Z patterns capable of holding heavy loads. The steel sections used here are called cold formed sections, meaning that the sections are formed, or given shape at room temperature. May 19, 2021 · Compared to wood framing, cold-formed steel framing is more cost-effective in long term mostly because of the lower insurance cost for builders and owners. Standard in a G60 coating, G90 coated products are also available upon special order. Fabricate cold-formed metal framing and accessories plumb, square, and true to line, and with connections securely fastened, according to referenced AISI specifications and standards, manufacturer’s written instructions and requirements in this Section. is the traditional spacing, but 24” o. Light gauge steel for framing has many advantages over traditional timber framing. Nov 18, 2019 · Light gauge steel is a cold-formed framing material that offers several advantages over traditional wood framing. True Structural 20 Gauge Studs and Track Structural 20 gauge studs and track offer a versatile solution for a wide range of framing applications, extending beyond standard drywall partitions. This Standard is intended for adoption and use in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Structural steel is used for columns, beams, and load-bearing elements. We provide solutions for all standard light steel framing applications, including load bearing mid-rise construction systems, curtain wall systems, rigid connectors, vertical deflection connectors, lateral Feb 3, 2025 · Light Gauge Steel Framing (LGSF), also known as LGS framing, cold-formed steel (CFS) framing and steel framing has steadily gained traction in the LGS construction industry for its versatility, durability and sustainability. The Collective Voice of America’s Steel Framing Industry The Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA) is dedicated to expanding the market for cold-formed steel in construction through programs and initiatives that promote the use of cold formed steel framing as a sustainable and cost-effective solution, advocate the development and acceptance of favorable code provisions, educate members Nov 14, 2024 · Discover the benefits of light gauge steel framing (LGSF) - a durable, flexible, and sustainable alternative to wood and concrete in modern construction. Unlike wood, steel framing is non-combustible and also resists warping, rotting and insect damage. c. The EQ Apr 20, 2025 · Light gauge steel framing (LGS) offers several advantages over traditional wood framing methods. These products should not be used in design or construction without an independent evaluation by a qualified engineer or architect to verify the suitability of a particular product for use in a specific Lightweight, cold-formed galvanized steel load-bearing studs are available in a selection of sizes, flanges, gauges and yield strengths to obtain optimal performance. Unlike hot-formed structural I-beams, neither process requires heat to form the shape, thus the Jan 21, 2025 · Light gauge metal, also known as cold-formed steel, is thinner and lighter, ideal for residential and commercial construction, such as steel studs, modular construction, and light steel buildings. This means it was fortified at room temperature and is overall lighter, thinner, cost-effective, and easier to manipulate to tailored designs – again, rolled into C or Z patterns. Light steel framing (LSF) is a construction method that uses cold-formed steel sections to create the structural framework of a building. Developed by Engineers, this information contains design data for members, connectors, and fasteners. Jul 19, 2023 · Metal Stud Nomenclature system and explain how it provides essential information about the stud's characteristics. What are the differences between light gauge steel and cold-formed steel? They both refer to the same type of material — thin steel that has been rolled to less than ⅛ of an inch and bent into a specific shape without being reheated. The primary requirements in the IBC that guide cold-formed steel design and construction have migrated from ASTM reference standards to standards developed and maintained by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI Jul 1, 2025 · When comparing the strength-to-weight ratio of steel framing versus wood framing, cold-formed steel (CFS) significantly outperforms wood. As well, our review will include a comparison of traditional wood framing vs. Roll-formers can create nearly any C-section length from coil stock on demand, meaning light-gauge projects require fewer cranes and can be built on urban infill lots that a 90-ton mobile crane could never reach. x 18 ga stud is priced at $35. Light-gauge metal and wood remain two of the most used building materials to frame walls. Indicate reinforcing channels, opening framing, supplemental framing, strapping, bracing, bridging, splices, accessories, connection details, and attachment to adjoining work. *Note* For our ELITE Steel Framing System, the three digit thickness identifier will be written in terms of which traditional thickness is being replicated. Because every member is lighter, shipping and manual handling are easier, too. Both metal and wood framing have their benefits and drawbacks. To get real-time FAQ updates, and the latest information on ClarkDietrich Building Systems, follow us on Twitter. These details were developed by the Light Gauge Steel Engineers Association (LGSEA) for the North American Steel Framing Alliance (NASFA). Product catalogs, design guides, research reports and technical papers are an essential resource for the design of cold formed steel. The proper solution often depends on the project’s structural, financial, and Interior view of a construction project with newly completed framing, utilizing various cold formed steel framing members. These steel frames are lightweight yet incredibly strong, making them ideal for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Cold-Formed Steel Framing Cold-formed steel, also called light-gauge steel or metal stud framing, is made from structural quality sheet steel formed into C-sections and other shapes usually by rollforming the steel through a series of dies. . Pinnacle offers most innovative steel framing systems provide unparalleled strength, durability, and precision for projects of all sizes, ensuring faster construction times, cost efficiency, and a sustainable future. Powder-actuated, or low-velocity driven fasteners, are commonly used to attach cold-formed steel framing members to concrete or structural steel supports. The SSMA's mission is to be the unified voice of the steel framing manufacturing industry, by being the leader in supporting the development and maintenance of quality product standards and specifications, and by creating growth opportunities for cold-formed steel through research, marketing, and education. But a few years back, building codes began to adopt the Prescriptive Method for Residential Cold-Formed Steel Framing, a collection of span charts and construction details for building with LGS. Steel L-headers constructed in accordance with this document shall be limited by the applicability limits of the Prescriptive Method for Residential Cold-Formed Steel Framing, second edition, which are repro-duced as Table 2 on page 6. Sturdy, difficult to destroy, impervious to pests and most elements, economical and recyclable, steel has few framing peers. ) base metal thickness and lighter. Now, with advanced technological developments like panelized systems, the building community is using CFS for structural applications in mid-rise and Light steel framing is generally based on the use of C or Z shaped steel sections produced by cold rolling from strip steel. Slotted Track assemblies (CST and FAS). Light-gauge steel, also known as cold-formed steel, refers to steel that has been processed at room temperature and shaped into thin, strong members. Feb 21, 2023 · The two main types of metal buildings are cold-formed metal buildings and pre-engineered metal buildings. Apr 10, 2019 · Section 2211, Cold-Formed Steel Light-Frame Construction, states that cold-formed steel light-frame construction, the design, and installation of the following structural framing systems, including their members and connections, shall be in accordance with AISI S240, and Sections 2211. What Is LGSF (Light Gauge Steel Framing)? To start, let’s define LGSF. Jul 1, 2020 · Metal framing is cold formed to create long, thin sheets shaped through rollers into guided C or Z patterns capable of holding heavy loads. Manufacturer's Literature and Data: Showing steel component sections and specifying structural characteristics. However, for architects or builders who need short-term cost reduction, wood framing is recommended due to its renewability and its simple production process. LGMF for residential structures, in particular. To accurately predict the strength of cold-formed steel members, engineers must identify the most critical buckling mode for a Sep 8, 2021 · Light Steel Framing News & Information about Light Steel Framing Industry Projects and How High Can You Construct a Building with Cold-Formed Steel Framing? The Answer May Surprise You. What follows is a comparison between these two building materials. pcbpz nurpul mui ewg yxpace lbolyb vdnac jkmgpx irw fzs