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Although less common than wood, metal stud framing is a popular choice by many builders. In certain aspects, metal stud framing offers a lot of advantages over wood.
Here are a few pros and cons of metal stud framing:
- Advantages. Choose metal when you have a potential termite damage possibility or extreme heat weather. Metal studs are rustproof and fireproof, much lighter than wood studs, and, unlike wood, will not warp. They are very fast and easy to install. Metal studs are cheaper than wood, however, many builders will argue on the cost difference. Although cheaper than wood initially, metal stud framing requires many special items like screws, special insulation, electrical boxes etc. that, when combined, will bring the price of the project up. Metal studs come with perforations—predrilled openings for electrical wire to go through. There is no need for an electrician to drill through them.
- Disadvantages. Metal stud framing requires a lot more planning ahead than regular wood framing. Because metal studs will not support heavy objects attached to them, installing something like cabinets becomes problematic. Many builders insert wood blocks in-between the studs in order to provide support and places to attach the cabinets to. If you need to attach something that was not planned, it becomes much more difficult than with wood. Besides, the only way to attach something to the metal studs is with screws. After framing, the wall is flimsy. It becomes sturdy only after you cover it with drywall.
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