Steel is very uniform. Always the same dimensions, never twists or warps, no knots. Useful if height is a problem - 8 ft stud means 8 ft wall. Wood is 8 ft stud plus 1 1/2 inch header plus 1 1/2 inch footer means 8 ft 3 inch wall.

Requires slightly different construction methods - must use screws which is probably what should be used anyways. Transmits heat/cold. Must use specially sized insulation which may cost more.

No termites with metal.

Both good points, but wood provides a more solid frame and is easier to work with. Metal is preferable only to cut costs or for some other site-specific reason such as a termite-infested home or keeping under weight limits.

And, no, it is not "obvious" that I have not worked with metal. It is only "obvious" that I disagree with the following two posts. Screws I have used in metal studs have "stripped," making the hole useless. In wood, if you hit the wood, the screw will bite. I can respect that some might prefer metal, but some people just prefer working with wood instead of metal.

[This message has been edited by Lawrence (edited March 13, 2001).]

Obviously, Lawrence has never worked with steel studs before. I found steel stud much easier to work with. You can frame a basement in half the time it would take to do in wood.

Steel provides a solid frame. My walls are just as solid as any built with wood studs.

I agree with Bob here! The metal studs allow you to snap/hold them together for easier installation applications. They are also lighter, which makes them easier to handle and work with. Another advantage is that they are pre-holed (don't know the proper terminology) for wiring purposes etc... A few other things, it doesn't absorb moisture and will not burn down in case of a fire!

My .02 cents,

Nick

I have always used wood but am now doing my basement with metal. I find the wood to be much faster. I can nail a wood frame together fast but I am slow at holding the metal together and driving screws without bending the metal. I like the unifomity and how straight the metal is.
The metal is good for my purpose because this is my basement, I am paying for it, and thus it is going slowly. I don't have to worry about it warping if I don't get it drywalled right away.
I am concerned about one thing. How do I attach base boards? I want to use natural wood so screws would show to much. Would brads hold? And last if I screw or nail through the float track into the bottom track what does this do to the flosted wall concept.
Thanks
Desert Rat

To say some "Obviously" has never worked with steel studs before is a little insulting don't you think? Was it neccessary to insult him?

I've worked with both. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. I prefer wood myself. That is a personal preference and I think that is what it boils down to. Which ever seems to be easier and fits your needs.

Bud