Flanges and lips of nonstructural cold-formed steel wall studs _____.

Flanges and lips of nonstructural cold-formed steel wall studs _____.

• A. shall not be less than 1-1/2 inches
• B. shall not penetrate a floor/ceiling assembly
• C. shall be prescribed by a registered professional
• D. shall not be cut or notched

Answer: (D)

Nonstructural cold-formed steel wall studs rely on the full cross-section of their flanges and lips to stay stiff and to transfer loads properly. If those portions are cut or notched, the effective area and geometry of the stud are reduced, which weakens its ability to carry loads and resist bending or shear. That local weakening can compromise the wall’s performance, especially under lateral forces from wind or earthquakes or when bearing loads are applied. Because of this, the rule is that flanges and lips shall not be cut or notched. If you need to make openings or route services, follow the manufacturer’s details and applicable codes for approved methods (such as using permitted openings, backing, or reinforcement) rather than altering the studs themselves. The other options describe unrelated dimensions or situations that don’t address the integrity of the stud’s flanges and lips.

Nonstructural cold-formed steel wall studs rely on the full cross-section of their flanges and lips to stay stiff and to transfer loads properly. If those portions are cut or notched, the effective area and geometry of the stud are reduced, which weakens its ability to carry loads and resist bending or shear. That local weakening can compromise the wall’s performance, especially under lateral forces from wind or earthquakes or when bearing loads are applied.

Because of this, the rule is that flanges and lips shall not be cut or notched. If you need to make openings or route services, follow the manufacturer’s details and applicable codes for approved methods (such as using permitted openings, backing, or reinforcement) rather than altering the studs themselves. The other options describe unrelated dimensions or situations that don’t address the integrity of the stud’s flanges and lips.