What is Cold-Formed Steel?

Cold-Formed Steel is also referred to as CFS, or light gauge steel and metal studs. CFS is a type of steel made from a structural quality sheet of steel that is formed into a “C” or “Z” shape. You may ask why it’s called “Cold-Formed” unlike regular steel that is made with heat; Cold-Formed Steel is made at room temperature by putting the steel through a series of rollers. This type of steel is very reliable and sturdy. It’s becoming one of the most popular contemporary building materials for the foundation and framing of modern structures.

Why use Cold-Formed Steel?

Cold-Formed Steel has tons of benefits, Cold-Formed steel does not absorb moisture and is resistant to termites, warping, and fire. Cold-Formed Steel does not shrink or split over time. All these characteristics help reduce project costs as well as the structure and maintenance throughout its lifetime. This material is very pliable and strong which makes It perfect for versatile environments. This material can be used in high wind areas or earthquake regions. Cold-Formed Steel requires fewer pieces at more distance due to its strength which makes it cost-effective as well as environmentally friendly.

Cold-Formed Steel is coated with zinc during its process. The zinc protects against corrosion for a long time, which reduces the cost of the maintenance of any structure constructed using this material. Cold-Formed Steel is lighter than regular steel therefore it has allowed the construction of taller buildings without the fear of the structure collapsing. It has also made the construction process faster because it makes for easier handling and assembly. That means that fewer framers are needed on the job site which saves money as well as time.

In conclusion, cold-formed steel is a material with many benefits. Among those are its durability, strength, pliability, and cost. it’s a wonderful material to work with, especially for places with environmental risks such as high winds and earthquakes. It’s no wonder why cold-formed steel is becoming a favorite among construction professionals.

How is Cold-Formed Steel Used?

Cold-formed steel (or light gauge metal) is necessary for modern construction projects that require the utmost safety and strength. Cold-formed steel, especially in the form of these gauge sheets, is commonly used in the construction industry for structural or non-structural items such as columns, joists, studs, beams, floor decking, built-up sections, and other components.

Is Cold-Formed Steel Right for Me?

Depending on the scale and the size of your project, cold-formed steel may be necessary. To determine if cold-formed steel is right for you, you should always consider:

• Your project’s budget: Is cold-formed steel an affordable option for your financial needs? Thankfully, there are plenty of affordable cold-formed steel framing products on the market today, and CFS is more affordable than most people think when the durability and longevity of the material are considered.
• The design intention: Will cold-formed steel adhere to the designs you have for your project? You want to make sure that cold-formed steel and its building codes meet the requirements for the project design you have in mind.
• The safety needs for your project: Does your project need high-level durability and reliability? If so, it might be important to make room in your project plans for cold-formed steel.

Article sources:

What Is Cold-Formed Steel Framing and How Can I Use It? – BuildSteel.org

Why choose FRAMECAD’s Automated Construction Technology for Cold Formed Steel