Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Lt. Gauge Steel Framing

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Carpentry and Framing
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 16 Jul 2001
Time: 12:19 AM

Comments

Construction techniques using steel framing are very specific. Failure to follow installation details can result in building failure when subjected to high winds or earthquakes. Blocking for floor joists must follow the recommendations outlined in NASFA's Prescriptive Method for Residential Cold-Formed Steel Framing, available as a free PDF download at: http://www.nasfa.org/pubs/PrescMeth/prescrip.pdf

You'll need Adobe Acrobat to read this document. Whatever you do, READ THIS DOCUMENT from start to finish (it's about 200 pages) before you attempt to build your home out of steel. It's full of guidelines and specific framing details for floors, wall, roofs, shear walls, blocking (walls and floors) and anchoring. NASFA is the North American Steel Framing Association -- an outstanding source of educational materials and installation guidelines on steel framing.

As to your question about metal cutting blades, this is an area where you get what you pay for. Top of the line 14" metal cutting blades (such as those from Porter-Cable) can run $150. But they outlast $4 abrasive blades by 30-40 times and provide consistent, smooth, accurate, spark-free cuts. These blades must be used on chop saws with the correct RPM specifically designed for metal dry cutting. The precision of these types of blades makes metal framing a pleasure. Having the right tools for the job pays dividends many times over -- and yields better quality control on the job.

Good luck!

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