Metal or Timber Stud-Work in Central Brittany?

Currently I'm “cutting and nailing sticks together", in other words, installing stud-work in an old countryside house 15km away from Pontivy in Central Brittany. The stud-work is not for partitioning but for adding insulation to the interior walls.

(Timber stud-work Central Brittany)

Stud-work is a supportive framework to partition a space into different areas. When made, it’s a good place to hide all the things you wouldn't want to see, like Electricity cabling, Plumbing and anything else which isn't visually desirable.

In old properties, were insulation is required, for example pre-cavity builds this is a good way to insulate the home. However, this isn't desirable if your home has already been furnished and decorated. (Best to at the start of renovating if you've bought yourself a little countryside wreck!)

Stud-work comes in two forms – Metal and Timber. This made me think, why do I always choose timber for studding walls?

(Metal Stud-Work, Walls and Ceilings) 

Personally I Like wood, it costs the same as metal and it’s just as easy to install. I also believe that if you live in a cooler, wet climate, metal stud can condensate and will eventually blow the plaster.

This point about the condensation however is only related specific circumstances. I.E., if it’s installed against a solid stone exterior wall with no cavity. It is possible to overcome this using a thermal bridge, though most builders rarely use this in private residential jobs.

A positive thing with metal stud-work is the minimal tools required for installation. This means very little training is required with regards to those tools. I use metal stud-work for all ceiling work, due to the material being light weight and being very easy to get level.

List of Pros., Cons & Indifference. (In my opinion)

Wood

Pros.

• ·        Plaster boards feel firmer when installed
• ·        The wall doesn’t sound as hollow when taping
• ·        Able to hang heavy pictures or other object on the studs

Cons.

• ·        Heavier material to use
• ·        Requires More tools, which require training.

Metal

Pros.

• ·        Metal is lighter and easier to transport
• ·        Requires minimal tools for installation

Cons.

• ·        Wall sounds tinny and hollow
• ·        Can’t hang anything heavy in the stud
• ·        Potential problems with condensation

On paper, the conclusion would suggest the metal is best, especially if you’re a DIYer. But as a professional builder and a traditionalist, I’d still stick to wood. I personally like to think that something which feels solid is better.

Common tools for both materials:

• ·       Chalk Line Reel
• ·        Tape Measure
• ·        Spirit Level
• ·        Pencil
• ·        Impact driver
• ·        Setsquare

Tools required for Wood (My opinion):

• ·        Mitre saw
• ·        Gas powered first fix nail gun
• ·        Hammer

Tools required for Metal:

• ·        Steel Forge Aviation Tin Snips (I prefer an angle grinder)
• ·        Stud Crimpers (Used for Locking the stud and track together)