Studs are an essential framing component in all commercial and residential building projects, and a variety of wood studs and metal studs are available. Wood studs, often called wall studs, are the most commonly used studs in residential construction. Metal studs, such as steel studs, are more commonly used for commercial construction projects but are gaining popularity in the residential market. Metal studs and plastic studs are also used as fasteners in the construction industry, joining a variety of building materials together.

When searching for studs, remember that:

1. Metals studs are used for steel framing, which has become one of the most popular building materials over the last several years due to its durability.
2. Wood studs are more flexible than steel studs and are easy to cut and install.
3. Wood wall studs are typically available in 2x4 and 2x6 sizes. 2x4 studs are the most popular size.
4. Accessories like stud finders can help locate wall studs.
5. Welding guns may be necessary for metal studs used as fasteners.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use metal studs

There are many benefits to using steel studs for framing purposes. Available in standard sizes and custom lengths, steel studs are perfectly straight and won't warp or bow. This helps keep walls free from cracks. In addition, steel studs are resistant to mold, fire, insects and rot.

I recommend: For steel studs, go to Dietrich Metal Framing, a leading manufacturer of light gauge steel framing products. Go to SCAFCO for a complete line of steel framing products, including steel studs.

Use wood studs

Wood studs are susceptible to shrinking, splitting and warping, but they are easy to cut into custom sizes. Small pieces of wood studs joined together are called finger-jointed studs, and they reduce the chances of warping, resulting in straighter studs.

I recommend: Canfor is a major lumber manufacturer that sells finger-jointed wood studs in three quality grades and a number of sizes, including 2x4 studs, for framing purposes. Temple-Inland sells log studs and finger-jointed studs in a variety of sizes and lengths for the construction industry.

Use metal studs and plastic studs as fasteners

Metal studs and plastic studs are used as fasteners for a variety of purposes. For example, headed anchor studs can be used to make concrete connections because they can be welded to a flat surface; reduced base studs are designed for small clearance holes.

I recommend: Stud Welding Associates provides fastening and anchoring solutions for the construction industry, such as collar studs and headed anchor studs. You can also search for studs at e-fastener and GoASF, which also promises same-day service on online orders.

Invest in tools like stud finders

Stud finders can help you locate wall studs once drywall has covered them.

I recommend: If you need to locate studs in a wall in order to hang a picture frame, Tyler Tool Company’s straight line stud finder could be helpful because it comes with a tape measure and features LED and audio alerts.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Steel studs are generally mold resistant because they don't contain any organic materials.
• •  In order to make an informed decision, research the various complexities of species of wood studs before making a purchase.
• •  2x4 studs are used in most commercial and residential building projects.
• •  Termites can damage wood studs, but they are more flexible than steel studs.