Structural Metal Stud Prices - South US September 2023

Metal stud prices are falling as of August and September 2023. There are many factors looming over the steel industry currently. The biggest issue is a potential automotive strike that is brewing in the North East. This would greatly reduce demand for metal. Another is scheduled steel mill closures for maintenance happening from September to November this year. Industry veterans expect steel to keep dropping for the next 50-60 days. The metal stud prices usually lag 1-2 months behind as metal stud manufactures and distributors will to continue to price based on current inventory.

18 gauge (43 mil) Metal Stud Prices Per Linear Foot

3 5/8″ Stud	362S162-43	$1.30
3 5/8″ Track	362T200-43	$1.30
6″ Stud	600S162-43	$1.70
6″ Track	600T200-43	$1.70
8″ Stud	800S162-43	$2.02
8″ Track	800T200-43	$2.02
10″ Stud	1000S162-43	$2.38
10″ Track	1000T125-43	$2.38
12″ Stud	1200S162-43	$2.71
12″ Track	1200T125-43	$2.71

16 gauge (54 mil) Metal Stud Prices Per Linear Foot

3 5/8″ Stud	362S162-54	$1.57
3 5/8″ Track	362T200-54	$1.57
6″ Stud	600S162-54	$2.07
6″ Track	600T200-54	$2.07
8″ Stud	800S162-54	$2.46
8″ Track	800T200-54	$2.46
10″ Stud	1000S162-54	$2.89
10″ Track	1000T125-54	$2.90
12″ Stud	1200S162-54	$3.31
12″ Track	1200T125-54	$3.31

14 gauge (68 mil) Metal Stud Prices Per Linear Foot

3 5/8″ Stud	362S162-68	$2.01
3 5/8″ Track	362T200-68	$2.01
6″ Stud	600S162-68	$2.64
6″ Track	600T200-68	$2.64
8″ Stud	800S162-68	$3.15
8″ Track	800T200-68	$3.15
10″ Stud	1000S162-68	$4.54
10″ Track	1000T125-68	$4.54
12″ Stud	1200S162-68	$5.17
12″ Track	1200T125-68	$5.17

Structural Metal Stud Prices - South US September 2023 Lake Charles

Areas where we are competitive in based on shipping?

US Frame Factory has established a competitive edge by directly shipping to clients in Texas, Louisiana, Florida, and Arkansas, streamlining operations and serving thriving markets efficiently. We are competitive beyond these primary regions. Having recently done projects in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Colorado. Demonstrating our commitment to delivering top-notch products to construction professionals nationwide. With a focus on customer satisfaction, efficiency, and quality. Here are some estimates for a full semi-trailer load(47 lbs) to these locations.

Houston, TX $750
Beaumont, TX $550
Corpus Christi, TX $1250
San Antonio, TX $1250
Waco, TX $1200
Austin, TX $1150

Baton Rouge, LA $400
Lafayette, LA Free
Lake Charles, LA $450
New Orleans, LA $550
Shreveport, LA $700
Mobile, AL $650

Tampa, FL $1950
Pensacola, FL $850
Tallahassee, FL $1300
Orlando, FL $2000
Sarasota, FL $2100
Miami, FL $2500

What should your metal stud buying strategy be?

Metal stud prices are currently falling and projected to bottom off in 50-60 days. If you can hold off-ordering for large projects I would wait.

Metal stud framing vs Traditional Wood Framing Costs

As of September 2023, a 2 in. x 6 in. x 20 ft pressure-treated piece of structural wooden framing costs around $20.48, while an equivalent 20 ft. x 18 ga stud is priced at $34. If you’re looking for higher quality, now might be a good time to consider building a metal house. Wood is currently about 40% cheaper, even when using prefabricated lengths for materials. However, labor costs for metal framing are likely 10-20% higher. Metal becomes more competitive with wood when used in a prefabricated manner, such as pre-assembled wall panels, allowing us to build a house under $100 per square foot. Nevertheless, wood still offers a more affordable upfront cost for construction when suitable. It is cheaper and easier to work with, but it is prone to fire, rot, pests, warping, and shrinking. On the other hand, metal is straighter, more uniform, and resistant to rot, but it is more expensive and poses greater challenges during the construction process.