I'm planning to put a shed on my concrete driveway and want to ensure it lasts. I'm considering using steel studs for the base framing instead of wood, as I don't want any wood touching the ground. Does anyone have experience with steel studs laid flat? Are they strong enough in that orientation, or do they only work upright? I'm aiming for a durability similar to what Tuff Shed offers for their floors.
3 Answers
If you’re really keen on metal, there are structural metal joists that could work, but they’re not easy to find unless you go through commercial suppliers. Otherwise, pressure-treated wood is definitely the way to go. If you're concerned about expansion from freezing, just make sure it’s well-installed to drain water away from the wood.
Honestly, you might want to stick with pressure-treated lumber for your shed floor. It’s meant for outdoor use and should hold up better than steel studs. The studs you linked aren't designed for flooring support. Plus, they can rust pretty quickly if they come into contact with moisture.
From what I know, steel studs are generally not load bearing when laid flat. They’re pretty flimsy without being attached to drywall or something similar. I’d suggest looking into proper structural joists if you want metal framing, but honestly, treated lumber is your best bet here mainly because it's more practical for flooring.
Yeah, and also keep in mind that steel tends to rust when exposed to moisture, which can be an issue unless you use something really durable.
Exactly! Wood can last a long time if you keep it dry and use good materials. Don't forget to consider how to elevate it off the ground to avoid rot.