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Wood framing has
been the standard framing method used in residential
construction for many years. Commercial construction
has used masonry and steel methods and, now,
lightweight steel to frame structures. Lightweight
steel framing is used in approximately 4% of new
homes built in the United States. Either wood or
steel can be used and meet the codes for strength.
There are advantages and
disadvantages in wood studs. The pros and cons of
using these methods are:
Advantages in using typical
wood framing for residential construction:
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Wood framing is more
energy-efficient.
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It is a common method
used in construction, so builders are
familiar with the methods and have the tools
to work with.
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Wood is renewable and is
grown and processed in Louisiana.
Environmentalists indicate wood is a key to
“green” housing. It is biodegradable.
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New manufacturing
processes are utilizing less-valuable
species of trees to produce
application-specific construction members.
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New processes make wood
less susceptible to insect damage and decay.
Disadvantages in using
wood:
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