February 25, 1999

DESIGN ISSUES WITH LIGHT GAUGE STEEL FRAMED WALL SYSTEMS

by

Robert Bombino

Graduate Student

Department of Architectural Engineering

The Pennsylvania State University

ABSTRACT

The presentation will identify and attempt to resolve key design issues related to exterior wall systems framed with light gauge steel. Light gauge steel studs are an alternative to tradition wood studs for residential framing. However, steel studs can not be used to simply replace wood studs. Similar to how the strength and stiffness of steel is considered in structural design, the other properties of steel need to be considered in wall system design. Properties of steel, such as high thermal conductivity and inability to store moisture, have a significant impact on exterior wall system performance as a whole. For steel framed wall systems exposed to colder climates, different design strategies need to be considered to minimize conductive heat transfer across the wall and to avoid the accumulation of moisture at locations of susceptibility.