Wondering about Metal Studs...

[artzypantz]

Hi all! I was wondering about the posibility of using the Metal Studs around doors and windows. I have alot of replacing to do as the previous owner left windows open and the studs around them have rotted. What do you think? Pros and Cons of this? Anyone used them?
Thanks for any input!
Tonia

[Harry]

Hi

I think you'll find some people like them and some don't.

I like them because they don't rot and bugs can't eat them.

Look at my album and you will see a photo of my front porch. The dark brown parts are metal studs.

Harry

[Jim from Canada]

I hate metal studs
1) They are a thermal link to the outdoors.
2) Electrical needs special consideration when passing through them.
3) They fail faster than wood in a fire.
4) They bend and twist easy if you are not careful when installing

Just my opinion

Jim

[Greg]

My first concern would be attaching them to the existing wood. Greg

[artzypantz]

Harry.....LOVE that porch!!

Jim......I knew i could count on hearing what i never thought of!
Very good points you've made!

Greg......i don't know either. I assume there are holes already there to put nails or screws thru, or you'd have to drill thru first. I haven't looked at them closely, just noticed them at the store & gave it a Hummmm......

Maybe i'll use cedar studs instead...... (Just joking lol)

Thank you all for your replys!
You all are so much help!
Enjoy your eve!
Tonia

[Harry]

Hi

Special self tapping screws are used for steel framing.

Actually cedar (or cypress) would be a good choice for framing windows....if you can get it.

Harry

[artzypantz]

Hi Harry!
I knew cedar is good, but i didn't know about cypress.
I think you could find it, i've searched online for other woods and have seen it a time or two......its the Price thats out of my league!
Heck if i could afford to frame my windows in cedar, I'd have a huge stick house with in ground pool & double decker greenhouse LOL!

Oh ya self tappers.....half the time my brain doesn't seem to work!
Thank goodness for this forum and wonderful people here like you!
I still think that if i could get around having to do any electrical, i should be able to use them to frame my windows at least. Whats the best blade & saw type to cut them? (Even if i don't have it, i can borrow it or rent it!)
Tried to cut some metal skirting one time and my saws-all blade just kept bouncing off the skirting.
Thanks again Harry!
Tonia