Framing Guide • Family-Owned Since 1970 • CSLB #265709
Wood vs. Steel vs. Concrete: Which Framing Is Best?
“Best” depends on the building. For most interiors we work, the question is simpler: what is the board fastening to, and do you need light-gauge metal studs inside a wood or concrete shell?
We Hang Drywall. We Frame Interior Steel.
Ron Hogan Drywall has been family-owned since 1970. We hang and finish on wood and metal studs. We also install light-gauge metal framing for partitions, soffits, and commercial tenant improvements.
We are not a structural concrete or timber-frame contractor. If your job is a high-rise frame or a poured wall, that work belongs to those trades. We come in when the interior needs studs and board.
The Three Materials, From a Drywall Job
Wood studs
Most Bay Area houses. Fast to hang. Can warp or take moisture. Straightness of the studs decides how smooth the finish can be.
Light-gauge steel
Standard for offices, TI, and many commercial interiors. Straight, non-combustible, and what we frame when the plan calls for metal studs.
Concrete or masonry
You usually do not screw drywall straight to the slab wall. Furring, hat channel, or a metal-stud chase comes first so there is something to hang on and a place for boxes.
Quick Comparison
- Houses and additions: wood structure is typical; we hang on it
- Offices and commercial interiors: metal studs are typical; we frame and hang
- Concrete buildings: interior metal framing or furring, then drywall
- Fire-rated and tall partitions: follow the listed assembly — often steel and Type X, not a preference
What Changes the Drywall Finish
The material matters less than how straight it is. Wavy wood and twisted track both print through a Level 5 wall. Fastener type changes (coarse vs. fine thread). Moisture in wood still has to be gone before we hang. Wood framing problems →
When to Call Us
- Hang and finish on existing wood or metal
- New interior metal stud walls, soffits, and commercial TI
- Board over a framed chase on a concrete wall
Need Framing or Board on Your Job?
1. Send the Plans
Text (925) 791-9099 the city and photos of the framing.
2. Scope It
Hang only, frame and hang, or finish to a specified level.
3. We Build the Interior
Licensed crews. 12-month warranty on our work.
Framing FAQs
Can you frame a whole house in steel?
Our steel work is interior light-gauge framing. A steel house frame is a different contractor.
Can drywall go on concrete?
Not as a glue-only shortcut on a finished living space. Plan furring or studs so boxes and insulation have a home.
Is steel better than wood?
For commercial interiors, usually yes. For a typical house, wood is already there. Use what the building and the code assembly require.
Need Metal Studs or Drywall on That Frame?
Call the family-owned Bay Area crew that has been hanging interiors since 1970.
Call / Text (925) 791-9099