Builder questions, straight answers
Common questions about cold-formed steel framing and Clear Path shells. Do not see yours? Email [email protected] or request a quote.
What is cold-formed steel (CFS) framing?
Cold-formed steel framing uses structural steel studs, joists, and track that are roll-formed from sheet steel at room temperature. The members are cut to exact lengths, assembled into wall panels and floor or roof systems, and fastened with screws. It is the same framing method used in commercial construction, engineered for residential and light commercial shells.
Is steel framing cheaper than wood framing?
Not always. Material cost depends on the design, spans, openings, cladding choice, and current pricing for both steel and lumber. The fair comparison is the full shell: framing plus sheathing, insulation, WRB, flashing, and the labor to install it all. Send Clear Path your plans and we will price the complete shell so you can compare it against your wood numbers.
Is steel framing better than wood framing for a house?
It depends on what you value. Steel does not rot, warp, or feed termites, it stays straight and dimensionally stable, and it is noncombustible. Wood is familiar to every trade and can be cheaper on simple designs. Our view: CFS with exterior continuous insulation is the better system when it is engineered and detailed correctly, which is why Clear Path builds every shell that way.
| Cold-formed steel (Clear Path) | Conventional wood framing | |
|---|---|---|
| Rot and decay | Will not rot or decay | Can rot if it stays wet |
| Termites | Cannot be eaten by termites | Vulnerable; treatment required |
| Dimensional stability | Stays straight; no shrinkage or twisting as it dries | Can shrink, twist, and warp as lumber dries |
| Fire | Noncombustible framing | Combustible |
| Thermal bridging | Higher conductivity; handled with exterior continuous insulation | Lower conductivity; still benefits from exterior insulation |
| MEP access | Wall cavities stay clear for MEP runs when insulation is pushed to the exterior | Cavities typically filled with batt insulation |
| Trade familiarity in Oklahoma | Newer to residential trades | Every trade knows it |
How much does a Clear Path shell cost?
Every project is quoted from your plans, because size, complexity, openings, and cladding choice move the number. Send your plans through our quote form and we will come back with a written scope and price.
What is included in a Clear Path shell?
Our crews install the full building envelope: steel framing, the floor deck on two-story homes, sheathing, roof deck, continuous exterior insulation for walls and roof, sealing, flashing, window install, rain screen, exterior cladding, fascia and soffit, and roof underlayment. The roof is an unvented assembly with foam insulation above the deck. Final roofing is an optional add-on. You get a dried-in shell, ready for your MEP and finish trades, with wall cavities kept clear for MEP runs.
Do you install windows?
Yes. The client supplies the windows, and Clear Path installs and flashes them as part of the envelope, so every opening is sealed and flashed by the same crew that builds the wall.
Do you do roofing?
Yes, as an optional add-on. Roof deck and underlayment are always in our scope, so you get a dried-in shell. Final roofing, whether shingle, metal, or whatever you have specified, can be added so the whole roof stays under one crew. Or your roofer picks up from the underlayment.
How long does a shell install take?
It depends on size and design, but a typical install takes 7 to 10 working days. We confirm a project-specific schedule with your quote.
What does thermal bridging mean, and how do you handle it?
Framing members conduct heat more than insulation does, and steel conducts much more than wood. A continuous layer of insulation outside the framing, on the walls and the roof, covers the steel so it is not a direct thermal path. That exterior continuous insulation is a core part of every Clear Path shell.
Does steel framing prevent mold?
No framing material makes a building mold-proof. Steel does not feed mold the way organic materials can, and it will not rot. But mold depends on moisture, and moisture control comes down to detailing, ventilation, and how the building is run. We focus on what is ours: taped and sealed insulation seams, flashed windows and openings, and a rain screen that gives water a clean drainage path.
Who does the engineering?
CFS engineering runs through our partner structural engineer. Engineering is quoted separately and paid up front, before fabrication, and is non-refundable. Stamped drawings are provided as required for your project and jurisdiction.
Where do you work?
Clear Path is based in Tulsa and installs shells anywhere in Oklahoma. Northwest Arkansas is next. If you are nearby and unsure, send your plans and ask.
What cladding options do you install?
LP SmartSide, Hardie, or metal, your choice. If you would like brick, let's discuss it during quoting.
I'm a homeowner. Can I hire you directly?
We primarily work through general contractors. If you don't have a GC, reach out and we will connect you with one that is familiar with our system.
What do you need from me to quote my project?
Your architectural plans (PDF is fine), the project type, approximate square footage, project location, and target start date. Upload everything through our quote form and we will come back with a written scope and price, usually within 2 business days.
How far in advance should I book?
Lead times vary by season and backlog. Send plans as early as you can: engineering and detailing happen before fabrication, so the earlier we start, the smoother your schedule. Ask us for our current booking window when you request a quote.