Cold Formed Steel Framing
The modern alternative to lumber. Precision-manufactured, non-combustible, and engineered to outperform wood in strength, speed, and durability.
Roll-Formed Precision
Galvanized steel coils shaped into structural members at room temperature using CNC-controlled roll-forming machinery.
Code-Compliant
Fully recognized by IBC and IRC. Engineered per AISI S240 standards for structural framing.
Made in Arkansas
Manufactured in our Centerton, AR facility. Direct from the roll-forming line to your job site.
1/32" Tolerance
CNC precision eliminates dimensional variability. Every stud, joist, and truss is exactly as specified.
100% Recyclable
Steel is the most recycled material on earth. Zero job-site waste, 100% recyclable at end of life.
Rapid Assembly
Pre-labeled, panelized sections arrive ready to assemble. Self-drilling screws replace nails.
What Is Cold Formed Steel Framing?
Cold-formed steel (CFS) framing is a construction method that uses thin sheets of galvanized steel, shaped into structural members at room temperature. Unlike the heavy hot-rolled steel beams used in skyscrapers, CFS members are lightweight C-channels and tracks that directly replace dimensional lumber (2x4s, 2x6s, etc.) in residential and commercial construction.
The term "cold-formed" refers to the manufacturing process: steel coils are fed through a series of rollers that bend the flat sheet into its final shape without heating. This produces members with consistent dimensions, high strength-to-weight ratios, and perfect straightness — qualities that wood simply cannot match.
How Cold Formed Steel Is Made
The manufacturing process starts with galvanized steel coils (zinc-coated for corrosion resistance) fed into a roll-forming machine. The machine progressively bends the flat steel strip through a series of roller dies until it reaches its final C-channel or track profile.
At USA Steel Framing, our roll-forming line is directly integrated with our 3D CAD engineering software. This means every stud is cut to exact length, pre-punched for plumbing and electrical penetrations, and labeled for its specific location in your building — all before leaving our Centerton, Arkansas facility.
CFS Gauge Specifications
| Gauge | Thickness | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 20 ga | 0.033" | Non-load-bearing interior partitions |
| 18 ga | 0.043" | Light load-bearing walls, ceiling joists |
| 16 ga | 0.054" | Standard load-bearing walls, floor joists |
| 14 ga | 0.068" | Heavy load-bearing, multi-story, headers |
| 12 ga | 0.097" | Structural headers, columns, heavy loads |
Cold Formed Steel vs Wood Framing
CFS is a direct replacement for dimensional lumber in light-frame construction. The studs, tracks, joists, and headers serve the same structural purpose as their wood counterparts — but with significant advantages in strength, consistency, fire resistance, and durability.
For a detailed side-by-side comparison of material costs, installation speed, insurance implications, and lifecycle durability, see our comprehensive steel vs wood framing comparison.
Applications
- Custom residential homes: Steel frame houses use CFS for walls, floors, and roof systems.
- Multi-family housing: Apartments, townhomes, and condominiums up to 6 stories.
- Commercial buildings: Retail, medical offices, restaurants, and mixed-use developments.
- Agricultural structures: Barndominiums, equipment storage, and agricultural buildings.
- Institutional: Schools, churches, government buildings requiring non-combustible construction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cold-formed steel framing?
Cold-formed steel (CFS) framing uses thin sheets of galvanized steel that are shaped into structural members (studs, tracks, joists, headers) at room temperature using roll-forming or press-braking equipment. Unlike hot-rolled steel used in skyscrapers, CFS is lightweight, easy to handle on-site, and dimensionally identical to wood framing members — making it a direct drop-in replacement for lumber.
What gauge steel is used in cold-formed steel framing?
Residential CFS framing typically uses 20-gauge (0.033") to 14-gauge (0.068") galvanized steel, depending on the structural load requirements. Load-bearing walls commonly use 16-gauge or 14-gauge studs, while non-load-bearing interior partitions use 20-gauge or 18-gauge.
Is cold-formed steel framing code-compliant?
Yes. CFS framing is fully recognized by the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC). AISI S240 (North American Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Structural Framing) provides comprehensive design provisions. All USA Steel Framing packages are engineered to meet or exceed local code requirements.
How does cold-formed steel compare to hot-rolled steel?
Cold-formed steel is thinner (typically 14-20 gauge), lighter, and formed at room temperature — making it ideal for residential and low-rise commercial framing. Hot-rolled steel (I-beams, wide flanges) is thicker, heavier, and used for high-rise structures, bridges, and industrial applications. CFS replaces wood studs; hot-rolled replaces structural beams.
Can cold-formed steel framing be used for multi-story buildings?
Yes. CFS framing is commonly used for buildings up to 6 stories, and engineered solutions exist for taller structures. Multi-family developments, hotels, student housing, and mixed-use buildings are common CFS applications.
Ready to switch to steel?
Send us your plans and get a comprehensive CFS framing quote within 48 hours. Engineered, manufactured, and delivered from our Arkansas facility.
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