Cold Formed Steel vs Light Gauge Steel, so What’s the Difference?
Cold-formed steel (CFS) and light gauge steel (LGS) refer to the same type of steel framing system. The difference lies mainly in terminology Cold-formed steel is the technical term commonly used in engineering and North America, while light gauge steel is more widely used in regions like Europe, Middle East, Australia and New Zealand.
|
Term |
Meaning |
Where Used |
|
Cold-Formed Steel (CFS) |
Technical/engineering term for thin steel sections formed at room temperature |
US, global engineering standards |
|
Light Gauge Steel (LGS) |
Common regional term for the same system |
Europe, AU, NZ, Asia |
|
Steel Framing |
Broad, general term including multiple systems |
Global |
|
Steel Studs / Metal Stud Framing |
Interior wall framing components |
US, construction trades |
What is Cold-Formed Steel?
Definition
Cold-formed steel refers to thin steel sheet uncoiled from steel coils that are shaped at room temperature using a roll forming process. This method produces precise components used in steel framing and structural systems.
How it’s Made
Unlike hot-rolled steel, cold-formed steel framing is manufactured without heat. Steel coils are formed into shapes such as studs, tracks and joists that are commonly used in steel stud framing and metal stud framing applications.
Where it’s Used
Cold-formed steel framing is widely used in residential and commercial construction, including wall systems, floors and roofs. It is also common in modular and prefabricated construction using steel frames and light steel frame systems.
What is Light Gauge Steel?
Definition
Light gauge steel is another term for cold formed steel, typically used to describe lightweight framing systems made from thin steel sections.
Relationship to CFS
Light gauge steel and cold formed steel refer to the same material and manufacturing process. Terms like LGS, LSF (Light Steel Frame), and LGSF (Light Gauge Steel Framing) are all variations used across different markets.
Regional usage
In the US, cold formed steel (CFS) is the dominant term, while in regions like Europe the UK, Australia and New Zealand, light gauge steel (LGS) and light steel frame are more commonly used in steel framing projects.
Why Do These Terms Exist?
The variety of terminology around cold formed steel and light gauge steel comes down to several factors.
Geography
Different regions have developed their own preferred terms. For example, North America typically uses cold formed steel while light gauge steel is more common in Australasia and Europe.
Standards
Engineering standards and regulatory frameworks often define terminology, reinforcing the use of terms like CFS in technical documentation.
Industry language
Different trades use different languages. Contractors may refer to steel studs, metal studs, or metal stud framing, while engineers use cold formed steel framing.
Historical evolution
As steel framing systems developed globally, terminology evolved independently, resulting in multiple names for the same system.
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What Should You Focus on When Using Steel Framing?
Instead of focusing on whether something is called cold formed steel or light gauge steel, it’s more important to evaluate steel framing systems based on performance, compliance and suitability.
Understanding how steel framing, light gauge steel framing, or cold formed steel framing systems perform in real-world conditions will always be more valuable than the terminology used to describe them.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cold-Formed Steel and Light Gauge Steel
Is cold-formed steel the same as light gauge steel?
Yes, cold formed steel and light gauge steel refer to the same type of steel framing system. The difference is mainly regional terminology.
What is LGS in construction?
LGS (light gauge steel) refers to thin steel sections used in steel framing systems for walls, floors, and roofs.
Are steel studs the same as light gauge steel?
Steel studs are a component of light gauge steel framing. They are typically used in steel stud framing or metal stud framing, rather than representing the entire structural system.
What is the difference between CFS and structural steel?
Cold formed steel is lightweight and formed at room temperature, while structural steel is heavier, hot-rolled and used for primary structural elements.
What is the difference between steel framing and light gauge steel?
Steel framing is a broad term that includes both heavy structural steel and light gauge steel framing. Light gauge steel refers specifically to thin, cold formed steel systems.
Want to learn more about steel frame construction and how it can transform your next project? Reach out to industry experts here.
