Chapter 17 Light-Gauge Steel Construction
Chapter 17 Light-Gauge Steel Construction
Chapter 17 Light-Gauge Steel Construction
CHAPTER
Light-Gauge Steel
Construction
CHAPTER OUTLINE
17.1 LIGHT-GAUGE STEEL FRAMING MEMBERS
17.2 LIGHT-GAUGE STEEL FRAMING IN LOAD-BEARING APPLICATIONS
17.3 ADVANTAGES AND LIMITATIONS OF LIGHT-GAUGE STEEL FRAMING
17.4 NON-LOAD-BEARING LIGHT-GAUGE STEEL FRAMING
PART 2
In the previous chapter, the shapes, sizes, properties, and applications of structural steel
were covered. This chapter is devoted to the use of light-gauge steel in buildings.
Light-gauge steel framing has long been used in commercial buildings for non-loadbearing walls. More specifically, light-gauge steel is used extensively for interior partitions
and exterior non-load-bearing walls in Types I and II construction, where the building
codes mandate the use of noncombustible materials (see Chapter 7 for the definition of
Types I and II construction). Because light-gauge steel is both lightweight and noncombustible, it is the material of choice in these applications.
More recently, the light-gauge steel frame has begun to compete with wood light frame
(discussed in Chapter 13) in some areas of the United States. In this application, light-gauge
600 S 162-33
STUD/JOIST DEPTHS
SHEET THICKNESS
18
27
30
33
43
54
68
97
25
22
20 DW
20 STR
18
16
14
12
1-5/8 in.
2-1/2 in.
3-1/2 in.
3-5/8 in.
4 in.
6 in.
8 in.
10 in.
12 in.
Stud/joist depth
Lip or return
Flange
width
Stud/joist cross-section,
generally C- shaped, as shown
48 in.
Both 30 mil and 33 mil thick members
are referred to as 20 gauge members
1-1/4 in.
1-3/8 in.
1-5/8 in.
2 in.
2-1/2 in.
Punchout
Stud
Bottom track
A stud with punchouts
FIGURE 17.2 Cross-sectional profile, thickness, and depth of light-gauge steel studs and joists.
406
3/16 in.
3/8 in.
1/2 in.
5/8 in.
5/8 in.
steel is used in load-bearing elementswalls, floors, and roofsin the same way as wood
light frame is used.
One region that has seen an increasing use of light-gauge steel in load-bearing applications
is the western United States, where the higher strength, greater ductility, and lower dead load
of light-gauge steel gives it an advantage over wood frame in resisting seismic forces. Other
areas of growth are warm, humid areas that are infested with termites and/or susceptible to
mold growth. Durability against termites is the primary reason for the popularity of lightgauge steel in the structural framing of homes in Hawaii, Florida, Georgia, and Texas.
CHAPTER 17
LIGHT-GAUGE STEEL CONSTRUCTION
NOTE
Gauge Versus Mil as Sheet
Thickness of Light-Gauge
Steel Members
In specifying sheet thickness
of light-gauge steel members,
SSMA encourages the use of
mil instead of the old gauge
number. However, both units
are currently used. Figure 17.2
shows the conversion from mil
to gauge.
Stud
Bridging channel (generally 4 ft on
center, when used), screw attached
to clip angle
407
1/2
in.
in.
wood light frame construction. Light-gauge steel bridging channels can be used with punched
studs to brace the wall, similar to blocking in wood frame construction. When required, they
are generally provided at 48 in. on center.
Two types of furring channels are in common use: (a) hat channels and (b) resilient
channels, Figure 17.4. A hat channel is generally used on the interior face of a masonry wall
with drywall finish (Figure 26.19). A resilient channel is used to increase the airborne
sound insulation of a wall or floor (Chapter 8).
PRACTICE
QUIZ
Each question has only one correct answer. Select the choice that best
answers the question.
1. A load-bearing light-gauge steel frame structure is generally lighter
than a comparable WLF structure.
a. True
b. False
2. Because steel is a strong material, light-gauge steel frame walls
in load-bearing applications do not require bracing and blocking.
a. True
b. False
3. The amount of corrosion protection required in light-gauge steel
frame members is generally
a. G30.
b. G45.
c. G60.
d. G90.
e. none of the above.
CHAPTER 17
LIGHT-GAUGE STEEL CONSTRUCTION
Sheet metal
gusset plate
Temporary
bracing
If the construction process and framing details were vastly different, it would have discouraged builders, who have been used to and trained in WLF, from attempting the use of
LGSF. This would have increased the cost of LGSF and also impeded its development. As
the builders get familiar with LGSF, its use will increase. This should encourage the development of new applications that are uniquely suited to LGSF.
Y IELD S TRENGTH
As per the International Residential Code, the minimum corrosion protection required on all
LGSF members is G60 (see Chapter 16 for the meaning of this designation). The minimum
yield strength of steel for LGSF members is 33 ksi. Generally, 33-ksi or 50-ksi steel is used.
WALL F RAMING
IN
Figures 17.7(a) to (c) show various stages in the framing of the walls of a light-gauge steel
structure. Like WLF, LGSF walls are assembled on the floor and tilted into place. Even
though the organization of LGSF is similar to WLF, connections and fasteners are quite different. Generally, the studs are fastened to the top and bottom tracks with screws.
The screws used in assembling light-gauge members are self-drilling, self-tapping screws.
Self-drilling implies that the screws drill their own holes and self-tapping implies that they
form (i.e., tap) their own thread.
The International Residential Code provides prescriptive design tables, which can be
used to select the size of studs for given loads and the buildings length and width.
Manufacturers of LGS members also provide similar tables in addition to providing typical
NOTE
Stud Size and Spacing for
LGSF Residential Framing
As explained earlier, 350S162
means a 312-in.-deep stud with
a flange width of 185 in.
Dimensionally, this is similar
to a 2 4 wood stud.
Similarly, 550S162 is similar
to a 2 6 stud.
Sheet thickness of steel used
in light-gauge studs is 33, 43,
54, or 68 mils (i.e., 20, 18, 16,
or 14 gauge) depending on the
gravity and lateral loads on the
wall. The spacing of light-gauge
steel studs is generally 24 in.
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PART 2
MATERIALS AND SYSTEMS
See Figure 17.11 for
blocking of studs
FIGURE 17.7(b) This image shows the progress in framing of walls of the structure shown
in Figure 17.7(a). (Photo courtesy of Dietrich Metal Framing.)
FIGURE 17.7(c) Light-gauge steel wall framing showing temporary wall bracing, which is similar
to that used in a wood frame structure. (Photo courtesy of Dietrich Metal Framing.)
framing details. Some of the manufacturers details use proprietary members that are
unique to the manufacturer.
The size of studs commonly used in exterior walls of a typical single-family residence is
generally 350S162 or 550S162 with sheet thickness of 33, 43, 54, or 68 mil (i.e., gauges
20, 18, 16, or 14), depending on the gravity, lateral loads, and yield strength of steel.
The center-to-center spacing of studs may be 12 in., 16 in., or 24 in. However, because
of the high strength of steel, 24-in. spacing is more common.
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CHAPTER 17
LIGHT-GAUGE STEEL CONSTRUCTION
imu
in
n. m
6i
Bottom track
Foundation
Exterior sheathing
Interior
drywall
FIGURE 17.9 Configuration of studs at a wall corner. Note that a minimum of three studs are
required at a corner, exactly as with a WLF wall. A sheet steel gusset plate is used to connect studs.
In a WLF wall, 2-by lumber blocking is used between the studs for the connection (Figure 13.12).
Figures 17.8 to17.12 provide a few important details of wall framing and connections
between members showing the similarities and differences between LGSF and WLF
construction. Details given here are generic and are merely representative of the system.
Manufacturers details should be referenced for more specific information.
F LOOR F RAMING
IN
Figure 17.13 shows the framing of a typical light-gauge steel floor. A major difference
between a light-gauge steel floor and a wood floor framing is that the light-gauge steel floor
joists must align with the underlying studs. This is because the commonly used top track in
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Minimum 3
studs at wall corner
Stud
FIGURE 17.10 Detail of connection between intersecting tracks at the top of a wall corner.
NOTE
In-Line Framing
In-line framing is mandated if
the structure is designed using
the prescriptive code provisions. Where in-line framing
is inconvenient, the top track
and studs should be structurally engineered.
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FIGURE 17.11 Blocking of studs to prevent their rotation and buckling under loads. U-channel
bridging through punchouts (shown in Figure 17.3) does not generally provide sufficient bracing
for studs in load-bearing applications. The detail has been adapted from Dietrich Metal Framing.
a LGSF wall is unable to function as a bending member, unlike the double top plate in a
wood frame wall.
In-line framing (as it is generally referred to in the industry) also applies to rafters and
roof trusses, so that the load from the floor or roof is transferred directly to the studs. A
maximum tolerance of 43 in. between the center lines of studs and joists or rafters is permitted, Figure 17.14.
1
1
1
Joist depths of 74 in., 94 in., and 114 in., which match the depths of standard wood
joists, are available in addition to the depths of 8 in., 10 in., 12 in., and 14 in. Light-gauge
Infill stud
Header
track
Back-to-back king
studs at jamb
Track piece to close
open side of jamb
Light-gauge steel
clip angle
Back-to-back studs
as header
Boxed jamb with
spot welded studs
Track as sill
Cripple stud
as connector
Infill stud
Cripple stud
as connector
Header
track
Infill stud
Bottom track
Two stud
members as
Boxed header
steel joists typically include holes in their webs to accommodate HVAC, plumbing, and
other utility lines, Figure 17.15.
Once the floor joists are in place, the plywood or OSB subfloor for the next floor is laid
in exactly the same way as in a WLF building. After the completion of the subfloor, the
walls for the next floor are erected, Figure 17.16.
R OOF F RAMING
IN
Figure 17.17 shows the framing of a typical light-gauge steel roof and Figure 17.18
shows the framing detail at an eave. Although the roof can be framed using individual
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PART 2
MATERIALS AND SYSTEMS
Joist
Rim joist
Top
track
Top track
Stud
FIGURE 17.14 Detail showing floor joist supports, web stiffening, and in-line framing.
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CHAPTER 17
LIGHT-GAUGE STEEL CONSTRUCTION
Plywood or OSB
subfloor
Steel joist as
rafter
Ceiling joist
Light-gauge steel
clip angle anchor
Top track
Stud
Steel joist
soffit framing
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PART 2
MATERIALS AND SYSTEMS
rafters and ceiling joists (stick-framed roof-ceiling assembly), builders find it more
convenient to use light-gauge steel trusses because of the ease with which they can be
fabricated.
Being lighter than corresponding wood trusses, light-gauge steel trusses can generally be
placed in position without special lifting and hoisting equipment. Additionally, the joints
between members of a light-gauge steel truss are more rigid, so that the trusses are easier to
handle and more forgiving during their placement.
A DVANTAGES
Lighter weight: LGSF members are much lighter than corresponding WLF members, reducing workers fatigue.
Higher strength: For the same overall cross-sectional dimensions, steel frame members are stronger and more ductile than WLF members. Higher strength and ductility
is the reason for the increased use of LGSF for residential framing in seismic and highwind areas.
Dimensional stability: Steel is not subjected to dimensional instabilityshrinkage,
swelling, twisting, and warpage caused by moisture changes. Steel frame members are
straight and true.
Uniform quality: Unlike wood, steel is a manufactured material with uniform and
consistent properties.
Durability: Steel is not subject to fungal decay or termite attack.
Noncombustibility: A major advantage of steel as compared to wood is steels noncombustibility.
Waste recycling: LGSF manufacturers generally provide framing members cut to size
to reduce on-site labor and waste.
NOTE
Dust Marking
If a light-gauge steel frame
structure is not properly
detailed, a phenomenon
known as ghosting, or dust
marking, may occur due to the
temperature differential
between the framing members
and the rest of the wall. The
phenomenon, which generally
occurs in cold climates, creates dust deposits on the interior drywall, highlighting the
framing members.
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L IMITATIONS
Corrosion: Although LGSF members are galvanized, they can be subjected to corrosion in a highly corrosive environment. A thicker than G60 zinc protection (e.g.,
G90) may be needed in some areas, which increases cost substantially.
Thermal bridging: A major disadvantage of LGSF is the low R-value of framing
members, which reduces the effectiveness of infill insulation. Although this is offset
somewhat by a 24-in. center-to-center spacing of studs and the use of an insulating
exterior sheathing, it increases the cost of the building.
Bracing and web stiffening: Because LGSF members are thin and lightweight, a
greater number of bridging and bracing lines and web-stiffening measures are
required to prevent twisting and buckling of framing members.
Cost: The cost of materials for an LGSF is comparable with that of a WLF.
However, an LGSF has a higher labor cost due to the use of screw guns instead of the
pneumatic nailing used in a WLF. The development of improved fastening systems
for LGSF may, however, change the situation in the future.
CHAPTER 17
LIGHT-GAUGE STEEL CONSTRUCTION
As stated earlier, LGSF has virtually no competition for the framing of interior partitions,
suspended ceilings, and exterior backup walls in buildings of Types I and II construction.
Whereas, the interior partitions are used as space-dividing elements, an exterior backup
wall provides lateral load support for exterior wall finishes, such as masonry veneer, stucco,
EIFS or natural stone.
Figure 17.19 shows the use of LGSF for an interior partition. Generally, 20-gauge, 32 -in.or 4-in.-wide (350S125-30 or 400S125-30) studs are used for partitions. Because steel is a
strong material, the size and spacing of studs for walls is governed by their deflection due to
lateral loads rather than the strength of the studs.
Building codes require that an interior partition should be able to withstand a minimum
lateral load of 5 psf. (This value may be exceeded in seismic zones.) Manufacturers provide
tables for selecting stud size and spacing for a given partition height without structural
calculations.
Full-height
stud
Intermediate track
to engage ceiling
and drywall; drywall
terminates here
Interior
partition
Light-gauge
steel brace
Ceiling and top of
wall at same level
Bottom track
fastened to
floor
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Steel shelf
angle to receive
brick veneer wall
finish
FIGURE 17.21 A light-gauge steel exterior backup wall framing in a high-rise building. The connection of the top of the wall (i.e., at the underside of each floor) must allow the floor to deflect
without stressing the wall (Figure 26.27).
FOCUS ON
SUSTAINABILITY
Recyclability
LGSF members are manufactured from coils of galvanized sheet steel that have a large
percentage of recycled content (average recycled content for all steel products is 28%).
Because screw connections are used, virtually all LGSF members can be easily disassembled after the buildings useful life. They may be reused, and, if not, they are 100%
recyclable.
According to Steel Recycling Institute*, a 2,000-ft2 ft house constructed of wood light
frame requires wood from 40 to 50 mature trees (covering about 1 acre of forest land).
The same size house made with LGSF requires steel that is equivalent of six scrapped cars.
Thermal Performance
Because steel is highly conducting material, its thermal performance is poor. Thermal
bridging reduces the efficacy of fibrous insulation placed in framing cavities. The use of
insulating sheathing, however, can reduce thermal bridging substantially.
*www.recycle-steel.org
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PRACTICE
Each question has only one correct answer. Select the choice that best
answers the question.
6. Unlike WLF walls, LGSF walls cannot be assembled on the floor
and subsequently tilted and moved into position.
a. True
b. False
7. The anchorage of the bottom track of a LGSF wall to concrete
footing
a. requires 6-in.-long stud material to strengthen the connection.
b. requires 6-in.-long additional track material to strengthen the
connection.
c. requires 6-in.-long light-gauge furring section to strengthen the
connection.
d. requires no additional strengthening.
8. The corner of a load-bearing LGSF wall requires a minimum
of three studs (similar to a WLF wall).
a. True
b. False
9. The top track in a load-bearing LGSF wall must be doubled in the
same way as the top plate in a WLF wall.
a. True
b. False
10. In-line framing in an LGSF structure means that
a. the studs must be continuous across an intermediate floor.
b. the floor joists must align with the studs in the underlying
supporting wall.
c. the floor joists from two opposite directions of an underlying
supporting wall must be in line, not staggered.
d. floor-to-floor height in a two- or three-story structure must be
the same.
QUIZ
Answers: 6-b, 7-a, 8-a, 9-b, 10-b, 11-b, 12-b, 13-d, 14-d, 15-a.
Furring channels
Punch out
Stud
Header
Roof framing
Track
Soffit
Bridging channels
REVIEW QUESTIONS
1. Discuss why the details of light-gauge steel framing used in load-bearing applications are similar to those used
in wood light frame structures.
2. In which regions of the United States does LGSF have advantages over WLF, and why?
(www.steelframingalliance.com)
(www.ssma.com)
FURTHER READING
1. American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Standard for Cold Formed Steel FramingA Prescriptive Method for One
or Two Family Dwellings, 2001.
2. International Code Council (ICC). International Residential Code, 2006.
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