Steel Stud Framing in Puna

[Rob Tucker]

Galvanized steel studs will have little moisture problem. The caveat is that cut ends should be coated with spray zinc. It is the weakest link that will begin to rust eventually. Studies have shown galv. to be effective for 100 years. Studies have shown boric acid (Hi-bor) to be effective for three years. Big difference.

One oft missed negative of steel frame is that it is very thermal reactive. Sun on a wall (or more especially a roof) will transfer heat into the building like a radiator... so some decoupling is advised. Otherwise the framing techniques are basically the same... except screws out perform nails.


I've been using a lot of steel framing over the last twenty years.