Cold-formed steel studs are popular for framing which type of walls?

Cold-formed steel studs are widely used for framing both structural and non-structural walls due to their strength, versatility, and lightweight characteristics. These studs are manufactured by bending and shaping thin sheets of steel into desired profiles, allowing them to accommodate a range of building designs and applications.

When used in structural walls, cold-formed steel studs can support loads, making them a suitable choice for buildings where sturdiness is crucial. For non-structural walls, they provide a reliable framework for partitions, helping to create space without contributing to the structural integrity of the building. Their resistance to warping, pests, and fire makes them particularly advantageous in various environments.

In contrast, while exterior walls and load-bearing walls may utilize cold-formed steel studs, doing so is not as universal as their application in both structural and non-structural contexts. Retaining walls generally do not employ cold-formed steel studs, as they are designed to support soil and other materials, requiring different construction approaches and materials. Therefore, the broad application of cold-formed steel studs across both structural and non-structural walls makes this answer the most accurate.