What is LGMF construction?

Cold formed metal framing, also referred to as light gauge metal framing (LGMF), has overtaken wood stick framing in commercial and institutional construction. It is also being used in some residential applications. Cold formed metal framing comes in many shapes and sizes.

Who owns Clark Dietrich?

About ClarkDietrich™ Building Systems Clarkwestern Dietrich Building Systems is a 75/25 joint venture with Marubeni-Itochu Steel America Inc. (MISA) and Worthington Industries, Inc. For more information, visit

How much does it cost to build a metal stud wall?

Installing an average wall costs about $1,800 total, including drywall and any electrical or plumbing. Framing a typical 10-foot wall, you’ll spend about $50 to $75 in materials….Average Metal Stud Installation Material & Labor.

Are steel studs cheaper than wood?

Cost-effective: While never as cheap as wood, steel studs are now only about 30-percent more expensive than wood studs. Lightweight: Steel studs are lighter to carry and store than wood because they are hollow.

Can steel studs be load bearing?

Heavier gauge metal studs are used in load bearing walls and structural applications such as exterior walls. Framing techniques for metal studs are similar to those of wood construction. Metal studs are available in many of the same basic dimensions as wood studs.

How strong is light gauge steel?

Light-Gauge Steel’s Inception for the Benefit of Contractors It was found to be 20% stronger than hot-rolled steel with a far superior strength to weight ratio, with significantly less material and energy use than anything else.

What does Clark Dietrich do?

We manufacture innovative products for interior and exterior framing, interior and exterior finishing, floor and roof framing, as well as clips, connectors, metal lath, welded wire, barrier mesh and accessories.

Are metal studs stronger than wood?

For instance, wood studs are stronger than metal studs, and are able to support more weight without being compromised. They are also longer-lasting and easier to cut as well. On the negative side, wood studs are more expensive than steel and can be harder to install, requiring many different tools.

How much does a T stud cost?

Tstuds are not cheap—about $2.50 per board foot vs. around $. 50 per board foot for 2x6s. But Tstud’s advanced framing approach means 24-inch on-center, single top plates, and virtually no deep-member headers at doors and windows.

Do metal studs rust?

Rust on a steel stud can be compared to rot on a wood stud. When a wall is properly constructed, there is little likelihood of a stud rusting to the point of failure. Normal cutting and drilling of steel studs removes the zinc coating in the cut area.

How much weight can you hang on a steel stud?

The axial load, or load weight limit, for metal studs varies widely. An 8-foot, 3-1/2-inch metal stud, for instance, may support over 2,000 pounds, while a 16-foot stud of the same width will support as little as 400 pounds.

What gauge metal are metal studs?

Conventional metal studs are available in 25, 22, 20, 18, and 16 gauge steel for your convenience (1-5/8″ available in 20, 22 and 25 gauge only).