I went back and forth on this exact thing when I framed my basement. Ended up using engineered studs for the main walls because the regular ones were so twisted, it was like building with spaghetti. I did feel weird about the glues and extra processing, but honestly, I wasted way less material. For a couple closets, I tried metal studs—super straight, but I found them a bit trickier to work with and noisier if you bump into them. I’m not sure there’s a perfect answer, but for me, less waste felt like the better compromise.
Why does every stud seem to be warped these days?
Totally get where you’re coming from. I’ve noticed the same thing—seems like every time I go to pick out lumber, half of it’s bowed or twisted. Engineered studs cost a bit more up front, but if you’re tossing fewer warped boards, it probably balances out. I’m with you on the metal studs too... they’re straight, but just not as intuitive for me to work with. At the end of the day, less waste and fewer headaches is worth a little extra cost in my book.
Engineered studs cost a bit more up front, but if you’re tossing fewer warped boards, it probably balances out.
I keep telling myself that too, but it’s hard to swallow the price difference when you’re staring at the sticker. Still, I get it—framing with warped 2x4s just turns into a nightmare, especially for anything you want to look halfway decent. I’ve noticed the regular studs at the big box stores look like they’ve barely had time to dry before they’re on the racks. Maybe it’s all the rush to get lumber out faster these days, or maybe they’re not letting them season long enough? Either way, it’s gotten way worse in the last few years.
Metal studs are tempting for the straightness, but I always feel like I’m wrestling with them. Plus, I just don’t trust hanging heavy stuff on them without some serious reinforcement. I guess it’s a tradeoff—pay more now for engineered, or pay later in headaches and wasted lumber. I’m leaning toward engineered for my next project, even if it stings a bit.
I’ve noticed the regular studs at the big box stores look like they’ve barely had time to dry before they’re on the racks.
- Had the same issue on a recent build—half the stack was bowed or twisted right out of the bundle.
- Engineered studs sting at checkout, but I’ve wasted so much time culling and straightening regular ones, it’s not even close anymore.
- Metal’s great for basements, but I agree, hanging cabinets or heavy stuff on them is a pain.
- If it’s a visible wall or something you want to stay straight, engineered’s worth it. For closets or utility spaces, I’ll still grab the cheaper stuff and just pick through.
Title: Why does every stud seem to be warped these days?
I hear you on the engineered studs—pricey, but man, they save headaches down the line. I’ve had projects where I spent more time sorting through the pile at the store than actually framing. It’s wild how inconsistent the regular studs are now. I remember a few years back, you could count on maybe one or two bad ones per bundle, but now it’s like a lottery.
For accent walls or anywhere I’m doing built-ins, I just bite the bullet and go engineered. The straightness makes a huge difference, especially when you’re trying to get those crisp lines with trim or cabinetry. But for utility rooms or spots that’ll get covered up, I’ll still sift through the stack and hope for the best.
Metal studs are a mixed bag for me. They’re great for moisture-prone areas, but I’ve had to get creative anchoring shelves or heavy mirrors. It’s doable, just not as straightforward as wood. I wish the big box stores would let the lumber dry a bit longer before putting it out, but I guess that’s wishful thinking...
