When testing
between a 25-gauge metal stud and a 20 or 16 gauge metal stud, tests show that there
are measurable decreases in STC values as the stud becomes heavier and as the
spacing between studs decreases. The testing results show that when comparing
similar partitions, a 25-gauge metal stud wall was usually 4-5 STC points
higher than 20- and 16-gauge stud walls. Also, by comparing similar partitions,
the results show that there is a 3-4 STC point drop between walls when studs
are installed 406 mm (16”) on center rather than 610 mm (24”) on center. There
was really no significant difference in STC value between partitions with
16-gauge studs and 20-gauge studs. Based on the test results measurements, the
walls in question in order to comply with the STC guideline for partitions
between exam rooms referenced here, a double-stud partition would be required. In other words, heavier gauge metal studs
perform no better than wood because of the loss of STC values.
