The Cold-Formed Steel Engineers Institute (CFSEI) has published Tech Note B011-25, “Cold-Formed Steel Framing Design: Where Do I Begin?” This Tech Note introduces engineers to the fundamentals of cold-formed steel (CFS) framing by clarifying member options, thicknesses and design standards. It offers recommendations from experienced CFS designers to support effective member selection, detailing and overall design strategy.

New to Cold-Formed Steel (CFS)?

CFSEI Tech Note B011-25 covers:

• Key criteria for selecting stud sizes, thicknesses and flange widths
• Strategies for limiting member variations per story to reduce field errors
• How to balance spacing, flange size and thickness to meet loads efficiently
• Guidance on jambs, headers and built-up members
• Practical notes on material availability and contractor preferences

This Tech Note explains how engineers can streamline cold-formed steel framing design by making informed member selections and improving constructability through better coordination with contractors and fabricators. It outlines practical ways to achieve these goals, including how to:

• Optimize member choices without overcomplicating schedules
• Reduce installation mistakes through clear, consistent profile selection
• Evaluate when spacing adjustments outperform thicker studs
• Coordinate early with fabricators to confirm preferred profiles and connectors

Key Design Resources

The publication also highlights essential industry resources and standards that support safe, efficient CFS framing design. These include:

• AISI standards for structural, nonstructural and seismic applications
• AISI and CFSEI design guides with examples and recommended details
• Manufacturer and industry load-span tables for member sizing

Readers can use this document to quickly understand core CFS design principles and make more informed framing decisions.