For your upcoming home project, do you need to buy metal stud framing but are unsure where to begin? Here is our step by step guide to get you started with the project and buying metal stud framing.
Step 1: Understanding what type type of steel you need
Prior to placing an order for buying metal stud framing, you should understand the various product categories and the labels that distributors and manufacturers use to identify them.
Once you have structural drawings available to you from your engineer, the first thing you need to identify from plans is the steel sections you need. Metal stud framing is basically made with Cold Formed Steel (CFS). All CFS manufacturers and suppliers employ a standard designator system that was created by the steel frame manufacturing industry due to the broad range of CFS member profiles, depths, widths, and material thicknesses that are available. It is essential to remember that building codes also employ this universal designator method to identify cold-formed steel frame. It is simple to define the appropriate CFS components when you are aware of the designator system. After that, you may locate the CFS distributor for your project.
It is an alpha-numeric system. A CFS member may, for instance, be designated 350S162-43. That number doesn’t tell you much if you don’t know the designating system. What about the material’s thickness and other dimensions? Once you are familiar with the system, you can quickly identify the member.
What is Cold Formed Steel (CFS)
The structural grade sheet steel used to create cold-formed steel (CFS) members is shaped into C-sections and other forms by rolling the steel through a number of dies. Cold-formed steel gets its name from the fact that it doesn’t use heat to create the forms, unlike hot-rolled steel.
Step 2: Locating a distributor for CFS distributor
A regional distributor usually provides CFS framing. Traditional lumberyards and warehouses that offer gypsum board are examples of distributors. Bigger contractors might be able to buy straight from the producers.
Get in touch with a CFS manufacturer to find distributors. On many websites, there are links to distributors. Certain manufacturers provide unusual CFS forms and sizes together with frame bundles.
Of course, in terms of placing orders for CFS supplies, this is just the start. Certain CFS members can be purchased in a range of packaging bundles, with varied coating choices and stock lengths. Your order’s quantities will be determined by the particular assembly designs, which will also define the lengths and quantities you require based on their spans and spacing. Normally a list of steel sections along with their quantities and lengths is supplied with structural drawings.
There are number of online suppliers like Amazon, Home depot and Lowe’s which sell CFS sections. You can search these stores with keywords likes metal studs, steel studs or tracks. However, it is advisable to get in touch with CFS retailer in your area as they might give you a better rate and freight options.
If you are still unsure, where you can order metal stud framing, fill in this form to get recommendations for local supplier in your area.
Step 3: Contact the Supplier for buying metal stud framing
Reach out to the supplier or manufacturer and provide them with detailed information about your project requirements. This includes the types and quantities of metal studs, track systems, connectors, and accessories needed. You will have all this information in structural plans you get from the engineer.
Inquire about the quality of the metal studs, ensuring they meet relevant industry standards (e.g., ASTM International standards for steel). There are different grades of CFS. Cold-rolled steel with a zinc coating and a yield strength of 33 ksi or 50 ksi is commonly used to make cold-formed steel frame items. The yield strength is specified as the grade. e.g. steel with 50 ksi yield strength would be Grade50 steel. You have the stick with the one specified by the engineer. Altering the grade all by yourself can compromise the structural safety of your home
Request a quote or estimate for the materials required. Ensure the quote includes costs for delivery, taxes, and any additional services they offer. For smaller projects, you can expect higher freight costs so also bear this in mind while shortlisting the suppliers
Step 4: Review and Confirm the quote before buying metal stud framing
Review the provided quote thoroughly to ensure it aligns with your project specifications. You may want to consult again the design engineer and take his or her opinion. Seek clarification on any unclear details or specifications in the quote.
Once you’re satisfied with the quote, confirm your order with the supplier or manufacturer. Ensure all details are accurate, including delivery dates, quantities, and payment terms.
Discuss payment methods and terms. Some suppliers may require a deposit or full payment upfront.
Step 5: Delivery and installation
Coordinate the delivery date and time that suits your project timeline. Upon delivery, inspect the framing to ensure they match the order and are free from damage or defects.
Arrange the delivered materials in an organized manner, keeping them protected from damage or weather conditions until installation. Usually cold formed steel is zinc coated, so you do not need to worry about rust. But it is always better you store the steel in dry place.
By following these steps, you can effectively order metal stud framing materials tailored to your project requirements. Clear communication and thoroughness in assessing your needs are key to a successful purchase and construction process.
If you do not want to go through all this hassle, it is always best to go for design build firms for your home.
