Metal and wood composites are used to create framing members (studs and
tracks, joists and bands, rafters, headers and the like), for lightweight
construction. Metal is utilized for its high strength, resistance to rot
and insects, cost stability, and potentially lower cost through recycling.
Metal that can be used includes roll formed steel approximately 18-22
gauge. Wood is used primarily for its lower thermal conductivity, and
availability. The metal components form the primary structure while wood,
either solid or other engineered wood, provides some structure and a
thermal break. A central web board can have a length of approximately 8
feet or longer with metal forms running along each of the longitudinal
side edges of the board. A first embodiment metal-wood stud member has
adhesive pocket end configurations. A second embodiment is a metal-wood
top and bottom track having an adhesive pocket configuration. A third
embodiment is a metal-wood stud having P-shape end configurations. The
wood is fastened to the metal by machine pressing of the metal to wood.
Alternatively the fastening includes nails, staples, screws, and the like,
and also by adhesive glue. The outward faces of the metal members can be
pre-formed with four longitudinal v-shaped or rounded edge ridges such
that the contact surface area to applied sheathings is reduced by about
90%.