What is a Metal Stud?
Metal studs are vertical frames used in construction. Builders use them to construct interior walls and ceilings. Most metal stud frames are made of aluminum or galvanized steel.
Metal studs are sturdy, lightweight and durable and are common in commercial or industrial construction. They frame walls and ceilings and can reinforce existing structures. They offer good fire resistance and design flexibility.
What is a Wood Stud?
A wood stud is a vertical framing used in the construction of walls. These studs serve as the primary structural support for walls and provide a framework for attaching drywall, insulation and other wall materials.
They are primarily used indoors to ensure walls are strong enough. They are easy to customize and can be cut to meet any framing requirements.
Standard Sizes of Metal Studs and Wood Studs
The standard sizes available for the two types of studs are:
Metal Stud Sizes
The most frequently used thickness of metal studs is 25-gauge. Metal stud dimensions also include 20 and 26-gauge.
They are available in these widths:
- 0.02 inch
- 1.25 inch
- 1.5 inch
- 3.22 inch
- 3.62 inch
Their length is available in these options:
- 48 inch
- 54 inch
- 58.5 inch
- 72 inch
- 90 inch
- 96 inch
- 120 inch
- 144 inch
You can choose the desired configuration depending on your needs and structural size.
Wood Stud Sizes
Wood studs are available in several sizes. Some of the common thickness by width measurements include 2 inches by 3 inches, 2 inches by 4 inches and 2 inches by 6 inches. Depending on your work requirement, you can opt for studs of varied lengths, including 8 feet, 9 feet or 12 feet. The 2x6 option is the thickest and can hold the most weight.
They are available in these lengths:
- 8 Ft
- 9 Ft
- 12 Ft
These wood studs can be cut into smaller ones if needed. They are highly modifiable and can be cut to any length.
Metal Studs vs Wood Studs: What Are the Considerations While Buying Them?
Take these factors into consideration while purchasing studs:
Cost
The cost of studs often depends on the prevailing demand at that time and the availability of materials. However, metal studs are often costlier than wooden studs. However, their thin-gauge models can be found at prices similar to wooden studs.
Wood studs are a more budget-friendly option. They are abundantly available and can be modified easily.
Strength
Metals studs are prone to bending and the thin gauge models are weak. Thus, metal studs are not preferred for walls bearing heavy loads.
Wood studs are very strong and can bear a very high load. As such, they are suitable for walls that will bear heavy loads.
Wall Thickness
Thicker metal studs offer greater load-bearing capacity. You can use them to support heavy fixtures and cabinetry or when building exterior walls. Thinner metal studs can be used for non-load-bearing walls, like interior partitions.
Wood studs take up more space and are usually made in much thicker options than metal studs. However, this added thickness allows them to support more weight.
Fire Resistance
Wood studs are very flammable, so they can easily catch fire. They should not be installed near fire sources as heat can weaken their structure.
Termites
Metal studs are not affected by termites or insects. They can be used in both outdoor and indoor spaces easily.
If not treated properly, wood studs can be affected by termites and insects.
Durability
Metal studs are generally more durable than wood studs. Unlike wood studs, metal studs can resist rot, warping, and termite damage. Additionally, metal studs made of galvanized steel are resistant to moisture.
Moisture Resistant
Metals don’t warp when exposed to moisture. However, they are prone to rusting. It is best to use galvanized steel studs. Also, ensure that you use rust-resistant fasteners and hardware.
Wood studs are more prone to damages. When exposed to moisture, it can swell, bend or even rot. Thus, proper care must be taken to ensure your wood studs are not in direct contact with moisture.
Sound Transmission
Metal studs do not help to dampen any noise. Hence, you must use sound-reduction materials, like metal stud wall insulation, with them.
Wood studs are great for absorbing sound. They are often used for sound damping and can help to create a quiet environment in your room.
Ease of Installation
Metal studs often come marked with points and holes for installation. They are also often lighter and easy to carry around during installation.
You might need to mark spots and create holes on wood studs. They are usually on the heavier side and may need assistance to carry around. However, it is easier to drive screws into wood studs. This can potentially reduce the installation time.
Wiring and Plumbing
Metal studs often include pre-bunched holes for your plumbing and electric wires. Hence, it is convenient to incorporate the pipes or wires when installing metal studs.
Wood is very easily modifiable. Thus, it can easily be modified to hold plumbing and electric wires.
Metal Studs vs Wood Studs: Their Pros and Cons
The pros and cons of metal studs and wood studs are:
Metal studs are effective for interior and non-structural partitions and ceilings. They offer better resistance against moisture and pests than wood. Wood studs provide great rigidity and are used for structural walls that need strength and can bear heavy loads.