Steel framing library
Straight answers about steel framing
Every guide opens with a short answer, cites its sources and shows when it was last checked. Written for homeowners, architects and builders in Southern California.
Start here · 8 min read
Steel vs. Wood Framing for California Homes (2026)
Neither material wins on every point. Light-gauge steel studs are noncombustible, can't be eaten by termites and won't shrink or warp. Wood is familiar to every trade and easier to insulate. On cost, in our experience a frame built from factory-made steel panels comes in close to a comparable wood frame. Steel makes the most sense when fire, pests or long-term stability matter most and you plan for engineering and continuous insulation.
Read the guide →Are Steel-Framed Houses Bad? Myths vs. Facts
Are steel-framed houses bad? Straight answers on noise, creaking, Wi-Fi, rust, lifespan, termites, mortgages, cost and fire, for California homes.
Read the guide →03California's New WUI Code (Title 24 Part 7): What Changed in 2026
Since Jan 1, 2026, California's wildfire building rules sit in a new WUI Code, Title 24 Part 7. What moved, exterior wall paths, and how to check your lot.
Read the guide →04Metal Stud Gauge Chart: Mils, Gauges and Sizes Explained
Metal stud gauge chart with mil-to-gauge conversion, thickness and color codes, how to read 600S162-54, structural vs. drywall studs, and G40/G60/G90 coatings.
Read the guide →05Steel Framing for Wildfire Rebuilds: What It Does and Doesn't Do
Steel studs don't burn, but homes ignite from embers and radiant heat. How steel framing fits with the roof, vents, windows, siding, eaves and 5-ft zone.
Read the guide →06Termite-Resistant Homes in California: Steel Can't Be Eaten
Can a house be termite-proof? Drywood termites eat wood framing in California; steel framing can't be eaten. What steel removes, what remains and fumigation.
Read the guide →07What Is Light-Gauge Steel Framing? A Plain-English Guide
Light-gauge steel framing explained: what cold-formed steel and metal studs are, how they're made, how to read 600S162-54, and where steel is used in homes.
Read the guide →Rebuilding after the 2025 fires
Local rebuild guides
7 min read · 12 sources
Rebuilding in Altadena with Steel Framing: A Practical Guide
Rebuilding in Altadena after the Eaton Fire with light-gauge steel: LA County like-for-like rules, self-certification, standard plans, fees and permit steps.
Read the guide →8 min read · 16 sources
Rebuilding in Pacific Palisades with Steel Framing
Rebuilding in Pacific Palisades with light-gauge steel: City of LA executive orders, 110% like-for-like rule, self-certification, standard plans and permits.
Read the guide →Next step
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Send your wood-frame plans and your address. We review them and explain what a light-gauge steel frame involves for your home.