Fastener Facts and Tool Topics

Why steel studs may be the best choice for your build

Written by Brett McCutcheon | May 5, 2018 10:09:00 AM

Steel studs are being chosen more frequently for both commercial and residential builds and with good reason.  They’re easy to work with because of their lightness. They’re strong and durable and the material is consistent in look and structure because it’s formed or manufactured. These are just a few of the well-documented benefits of steel. You can read more about the comparison of working with wood studs over steel studs in an additional article from our blog here.

Here are some other reasons why steel studs are the best choice for your build, provided by steelframing.org:

  • The material is 100% recyclable, leading to a 68% recycle rate for the industry.
  • Due to the nature of the material – it is inorganic – it will not rot, warp or split, expand or contract, and is non-combustible.
  • Constructing with steel studs often translates to breaks on insurance costs, both for the builder’s risk insurance and consumer’s home owner’s insurance.
  • Steel construction provides longevity due to its resistance to mold, termites, and won’t add fuel to a house fire.
  • Its strength makes it the perfect choice for safety and protection in damaging weather and other naturally occurring events, such as an earthquake or high winds.
  • Builders often prefer to work with steel because it is light, can come to the build site prefabricated, and provides straight lines. Having plumb walls will mean doors and windows operate properly.
  • Assembly is easier and is stronger due to the steel studs being screwed into place, instead of nailed.

These are many reason why builders and consumers alike are turning more frequently to steel studs for their construction projects. Using the best materials and fasteners will provide a sound structure that has strength and longevity. Fasteners like the SCRAIL® STEELTHREAD®, which is shot in like a collated nail with a pneumatic gun to connect gypsum or wood with steel, can make working with steel studs even easier. The three longitudinal grooves of the SCRAIL® STEELTHREAD® ensure controlled displacement of the steel stud material, and provides the ability to remove and adjust your fasteners at any point during your project, plus superior hold and strength.