What Is Cold-Formed Steel Framing?

What Is Cold-Formed Steel Framing and When Should You Use It?

Cold-formed steel (CFS) is reshaping the way mid-rise buildings go vertical. Lightweight, durable, and precision-engineered, it offers major advantages over traditional framing materials like wood or structural steel.

So—what exactly is cold-formed steel, and when does it make sense for your project?

Cold-formed steel is manufactured by rolling steel sheets at room temperature into C-shaped, U-shaped, or custom profiles. These members form the backbone of floor systems, wall panels, and roof trusses for mid-rise buildings.

Unlike hot-rolled structural steel, CFS components are:
• Lighter weight
• Non-combustible
• Dimensionally consistent
• 100% recyclable

When to Use Cold-Formed Steel

CFS is ideal for:
• Mid-rise buildings (3–12 stories)
• Hotels, senior living, student housing
• Fast-track schedules
• Multi-family and mixed-use developments
• Projects requiring minimal on-site fabrication

If you’re looking for speed, accuracy, and lower labor costs—CFS might be the smart move.

Learn more: Benefits of Cold-Formed Steel Construction
Ready to quote? Get a Quote