Are 6 metal studs actually 6?

Studs

Metal stud manufacturers are required to stamp the stud size and gauge on each product. For instance, ClarkDietrich labels 6-inch, 16-gauge studs with CD600S162-54 50 KSI. This tells you the stud is 6 inches wide with a 1-5/8 inch (1.62 inch) flange and is 16-ga (54 mils) thick. Finally, it shows the steel strength to be 50 ksi.

Since the materials come off rollers being fed by large coils of steel, the limiting factor on stud/track lengths is the size of the rolling facility and the ability to ship it to the job site.

Pay attention to stud heights as a small difference in height, such as 3-feet, can change the required gauge to increase two increments. Strict deflection limitations can also drive costs. Consider the geographic area (in terms of high wind speeds near the coast). If you aren’t sure which sizes you need, it’s best to consult a cold-formed steel engineer.

ClarkDietrich’s plant in Bristol, Conn. can roll a stud/joist well over 100 feet long. Shipping is the limiting factor. For practicality sake, we recommend maximum stud lengths around 40 feet depending upon the size. Smaller and thinner studs are very difficult to work with as they get longer. It’s best to consult your specialty engineer to make the appropriate decision for your project.

Typical Metal Stud Sizes

Interior Framing and Metal Stud Sizes

Stud

Member Depth (in)

Flange Width (in)

Material Thickness (mils)

1-5/8

2-1/2

3-5/8

Track

Member Depth

Flange Width 

Material Thickness (GA)

Exterior Structural Track and Metal Stud Sizes

Structural Steel Stud

Member Depth 

Flange Width 

Material Thickness (GA)

1-5/8

2-1/2

3-1/2

Structural Steel Track

Member Depth

Flange Width 

Material Thickness (GA)

Slotted Track

Structural

Member Depth

Flange Width

Material Thickness (GA)

Non-Structural

Member Depth

Flange Width

Material Thickness (mils)

Accessories

7/8″

Z-Furring

Z-Furring

Z-Furring

Z-Furring

Z-Furring

Z-Furring

Z-Furring

Z-Furring

U-Channel

U-Channel

Here is an explanation of stud sizes in reference to thickness:

When to Use Certain Metal Stud Sizes

In general, the capacity of a stud depends on many variables — stud size, height, gauge, bracing condition, and lateral load. 

Heavy-duty projects that require stability and a strong foundation typically need thicker metal studs. 

In some cases, unusual stud sizes — or metal studs that match standard wood sizes — are requested for a project. If you’re looking for something specific, please contact us today. 

If you’d like additional information on how to identify cold-formed steel material thicknesses in the field, read our blog post here. 

Using Metal Studs for Framing

Lightweight steel framing is used more often in commercial construction. It has become increasing popular to use metal studs for residential construction as well. 

Standard metal stud sizes include lengths of 10-14 feet and the following widths:

• 1 5/8-inch width
• 2 1/2-inch width
• 3 5/8-inch width
• 4-inch width
• 6-inch width

Metal studs are usually made of 25-gauge steel and often come with knockouts for electrical cables.

Metal studs have these features and considerations in residential framing:

• Metal studs are highly durable and will not bow, warp or rot.
• Galvanized metal studs resist water and fire damage, making them ideal for bathrooms, basements and other areas prone to moisture.
• Metal studs are non-combustible, providing improved fire ratings and insurance benefits in some areas. Metal also provides insurance benefits by withstanding natural disasters like floods or hurricanes more effectively.
• Metal studs are resistant to termites and can reduce pest control costs.
• Metal studs have uniform size and quality, making them less likely to have flaws or imperfections that can lead to wasted materials.
• Metal studs are lighter in weight than wood studs, making them easier to transport. They often require less space for storage.
• They can only be used with drywall screws, which can make construction more complicated but leads to more stable frames.
• Metal has higher thermal conductivity, which can increase cooling or heating costs. Homes with metal frames require special insulation such as extruded polystyrene. In the long term, this can lead to better insulated, more energy-efficient homes.
• Metal studs are more difficult to cut, requiring a circular saw or miter saw with a metal-cutting blade, as well as metal snips.

Pro Tip: Heavy gauge metal studs can be used for load-bearing walls, but these can be more expensive and harder to source than standard metal studs.