Everything contractors, framers, and builders need to know about cold-formed steel framing — from product selection and sizing to ordering, delivery, and pickup at our Forest Park, GA facility.
Cold-formed steel framing refers to structural and non-structural building components — studs, track, joists, and headers — manufactured by rolling or pressing steel sheet at room temperature into specific shapes and profiles. Unlike hot-rolled steel used for wide-flange beams, CFS members are lightweight, thin-walled, and designed for wall, floor, and roof framing systems in both commercial and residential construction. The Formetal Company has been manufacturing CFS framing in Atlanta, Georgia since 1959.
Steel studs are C-shaped with stiffening lips (returns) on the flanges — they are the vertical framing members in a wall. Steel track (also called runners or channels) is U-shaped without lips so studs can slide in easily. Track is installed horizontally at the floor and ceiling to hold the studs in position. Both are sold in matching widths and gauges so the stud fits snugly into the track.
Non-structural studs (typically 25 to 20 gauge / 18–33 mils) are used for interior partitions that carry only the weight of the wall finish — drywall, tile, etc. Structural studs (structural 20 gauge / 33 mils and heavier) are engineered to carry axial and lateral loads and must be designed by a licensed structural engineer. When in doubt, specify structural — it is always acceptable where non-structural is required, but not the other way around.
Product codes follow the SSMA standard format. For example, 600S162-43 breaks down as:
This system lets you quickly verify size, gauge, and application for any product.
It depends on the application. As a general guide:
For structural applications always consult a licensed structural engineer. Contact our team if you need guidance on gauge selection for your project.
Allowable wall height depends on stud width, gauge, spacing, and design load. SFIA publishes prescriptive span tables for non-structural applications. For walls exceeding those limits, a structural engineer must design the assembly. Tall-wall assemblies commonly use wider, heavier-gauge studs (6″ or 8″ web) at closer spacing (12″ o.c.) to meet deflection criteria (typically L/240 or L/360).
The two most common spacings are 16″ o.c. and 24″ o.c. 16″ o.c. is standard for higher-performance walls and heavier finishes. 24″ o.c. is often code-compliant for many non-structural and lighter structural applications and reduces material and labor costs. Always verify against applicable load tables and local building code requirements.
Yes. Steel studs and track can be cut on site using aviation snips, a chop saw with a metal-cutting blade, or a cold saw. However, pre-ordering cut-to-length material from The Formetal Company significantly reduces on-site labor, minimizes waste, and speeds up installation. We offer custom lengths for most products — request a quote for custom sizing.
Steel studs are inserted into floor and ceiling track and secured with self-drilling screws (also called "zip screws" or "pan-head" screws) or by crimping with a framing tool. The connection method depends on the application and load requirements. Most commercial applications require screws per AISI S200 specifications.
Standard wood screws are not appropriate for metal framing. You need self-drilling, self-tapping screws rated for the specific gauge of steel being fastened. For light gauge (25–20 ga) use fine-thread drywall screws or #6 self-drilling screws. For structural gauge (18 ga and heavier) use coarse-thread or #8–#12 self-drilling screws with a higher drill point rating (typically S-12 or S-20 point). Always match the screw drill point to the total thickness of steel being penetrated.
Bridging (horizontal bracing) is installed mid-span between studs to prevent twisting, buckling, or lateral movement under load. Common types include cold-rolled channel, flat strap, or proprietary bridging clips. It is required for most structural walls and recommended for taller non-structural partitions. Spacing is determined by stud height, gauge, and load — refer to AISI S200 or consult an engineer.
Most commercial steel studs come with pre-punched knockout openings (typically 1-1/2″ × 4″) aligned at standard heights for MEP routing. For openings larger than the knockout, use a grommet or snap-in plastic bushing to protect wiring from sharp steel edges. Plumbing through steel stud walls follows the same approach — isolate any copper piping from direct steel contact to prevent galvanic corrosion.
Deflection track (also called slip track or deep-leg track) has an extended flange that allows the stud to move vertically within the track, accommodating floor deflection or seismic drift without transferring those forces into the partition wall. It is commonly specified in seismic design categories C–F, tall commercial buildings, and anywhere inter-story drift is expected. The Formetal Company stocks deep-leg deflection track in multiple gauges — contact us for availability.
Yes. Steel stud wall assemblies can achieve fire ratings of 1, 2, 3, or 4 hours depending on the specific assembly — including stud gauge and spacing, type and number of gypsum board layers, and any cavity insulation. UL-listed assemblies (referenced in the UL Fire Resistance Directory) provide tested, code-compliant configurations. Unlike wood, steel is non-combustible, which often simplifies fire rating compliance.
Yes. Cold-formed steel framing is widely used in exterior wall assemblies including curtain wall backing, stucco framing, EIFS systems, and insulated exterior systems. Exterior applications require a minimum G60 galvanizing coating (per ASTM A653) to resist corrosion. In highly corrosive environments (coastal, industrial) G90 or G120 may be specified. All Formetal products meet ASTM A1003 galvanizing requirements.
CFS framing is governed by multiple standards:
Per AISI S220 and ASTM standards, the web of every stud and track must be marked at least every 96″ with the manufacturer's name or logo, base metal thickness in mils, and any required evaluation report or certification. Proper marking is required for code inspections and is something to verify when comparing suppliers.
Metal stud pricing varies by gauge, size, and quantity. As a manufacturer, The Formetal Company offers competitive direct pricing without distributor markup. Current pricing for our most common steel stud and track sizes is listed on our Steel Stud & Track Pricing page. For bulk orders or full project packages, request a quote for volume pricing.
While upfront material costs are often comparable, CFS framing typically delivers a lower total project cost through faster installation, reduced labor, less on-site waste, no callbacks for warping or nail pops, and lower insurance premiums in many markets. Custom-cut lengths further reduce labor and scrap. In commercial construction, steel framing is usually the preferred and more cost-effective choice.
Yes — this is one of our core offerings. The Formetal Company manufactures steel studs and track in custom lengths to match your specific wall heights. Custom lengths reduce on-site cutting, minimize waste, and speed up framing. Request a quote with your required lengths and quantities and our team will get back to you promptly.
Stock items are typically available for same-day customer pickup or can ship within 1–3 business days. Custom lengths and larger structural packages typically have a lead time of 5–10 business days depending on volume and current production schedules. We work with contractors to prioritize urgent jobsite deliveries — contact our team to discuss your timeline.
Always verify the mil (designation) thickness — not just the gauge label — as nominal gauge numbers can vary between manufacturers. Also confirm the galvanizing coating weight (G40, G60, or G90), flange dimensions, and whether the product meets ASTM A1003 and AISI standards. Reputable suppliers like The Formetal Company can provide mill certifications when required for code compliance or LEED documentation.
We serve contractors of all sizes — from small remodel jobs to large commercial projects. There is no strict minimum for customer pickups at our Forest Park, GA facility. Delivery orders must meet our minimum threshold to qualify for free Metro Atlanta delivery. Contact us for details on delivery minimums and rates for your area.
The easiest way is to use our online quote form with your material takeoff or project specs. Our team will respond with competitive pricing on full framing packages — studs, track, deflection track, angle, furring channel, and accessories — with lead times and delivery options tailored to your schedule. You can also call us directly at (404) 361-0525.
The Formetal Company is Atlanta's oldest metal stud and track manufacturer — located at 239 3rd St, Forest Park, GA 30297, just south of downtown Atlanta. You can purchase directly from our facility with same-day customer pickup available during business hours (Monday–Friday, 8AM–5PM). No distributor markup, no middleman — just manufacturer-direct pricing.
Yes. In-stock items are available for same-day customer pickup at our Forest Park, GA facility. We recommend scheduling your pickup in advance to ensure your order is staged and ready when you arrive. Visit our customer pickup page or call (404) 361-0525 to arrange.
Yes. We deliver throughout Metro Atlanta and the greater Southeast using our own fleet of trucks. Orders that meet our delivery minimum qualify for free delivery within the Metro Atlanta area. We also ship nationwide for larger orders. Contact our team for delivery rates and scheduling.
Yes. While our primary service area is Atlanta and the Southeast, The Formetal Company ships nationwide. We work with contractors across the country who need reliable domestic manufacturing and competitive pricing. Request a quote with your delivery location and we'll provide shipping options and rates.
Yes — 100%. The Formetal Company has been distributing cold-formed steel framing products in Forest Park, Georgia since 1959. All studs, track, and accessories are American-made and American-owned. Our products support LEED-certified projects and the Georgia Peach Points program.
CFS is one of the most sustainable building materials available. It is 100% recyclable, typically manufactured with high recycled content, produces very little jobsite waste (especially with custom lengths), and is termite-proof, rot-proof, mold-resistant, and non-combustible. It contributes to LEED credits in several categories including Materials & Resources and Indoor Environmental Quality.
Yes. Formetal's steel framing products support LEED-certified construction and the Georgia Peach Points program. We can provide mill certifications and material documentation to support your project's LEED submittal. Contact our team for documentation needs.
Yes. Product submittals, data sheets, and technical documentation are available on our Submittals page. If you need specific documentation for a project submittal or code inspection, contact us and we'll provide what you need.
Our team has over 65 years of experience in cold-formed steel framing. We're happy to help with product selection, sizing, pricing, or anything else your project needs.
