Faqs

Distributor/Contractor Specific Questions

• I am a supplier that buys from multiple vendors.  Can I mix and match this product with non-ClarkWestern material?
  • ClarkWestern UltraSTEEL™ studs can be intermixed with any steel framing that meets the requirements of ASTM C-754. The intermixed wall will meet all of the structural performance requirements. However, by intermixing products you will be forfeiting the improved fire and sound ratings of UltraSTEEL™. Additionally you will lose the productivity and safety enhancements of ClarkWestern UltraSTEEL™.
• Your competition won’t ok or approve the use of UltraSTEEL™ with their product.  Do I need to be concerned?
  • ClarkWestern UltraSTEEL™ framing can be intermixed with any steel framing that meets the requirements of ASTM C-754.  The intermixed wall will meet all of the structural performance requirements. However, by intermixing products you will be forfeiting the improved fire and sound ratings of UltraSTEEL™.
•  Can I continue to buy ClarkWestern “traditional” stud and track in 25 and 20-gauge?
  • ClarkWestern Building Systems is so convinced of the superiority of the UltraSTEEL™ product, we are converting our facilities 100% to UltraSTEEL™.  When your local facility is converted, we will no longer offer traditional products.
•  Are there physical properties available for these products?
  • Yes, physical properties are conservatively based on the base metal thickness and are available in print form and on www.clarkwestern.com. 
• What can I get, in writing, which will guarantee the performance of these members? 
  • Our printed literature clearly outlines the properties and performance compared to the traditional products. All third party test data is available to verify the printed literature.  ClarkWestern, as one of the largest manufacturers of light gauge steel framing in the world, always stands behind our products. If you require more information contact any one of our sales associates.    
•  What liability concerns do I have if I use this product?
  • There are no liability concerns.  Remember, this is an UL^® classified product.  The product has been rigorously tested by independent third party testing facilities and meets local building codes.
• Can I return product if the contractor doesn’t like it?
  • Absolutely! If there is a contractor that doesn’t like the product, we would like to meet with them to find out why.
• Will lead times be effected?
  • No, the product will be produced locally with the same lead times as traditional material. 
• Aren’t you asking me to take a huge capital investment risk? Where is the investment and risk?
  • You will be purchasing product in the same fashion as traditional product with the ability to market it against your competition as a superior product.  Remember, we are converting our entire interior framing capacity in our organization; we are that confident.
• How will ClarkWestern react if I bring in some brand X just to be on the safe side in case my contractor doesn’t like it?
  • Although we never like seeing our competitor’s product it is your business and your decision. The bigger question is what are you going to do with aging brand X inventory when your contractors request ClarkWestern UltraSTEEL™ exclusively?
• What happens if I submit UltraSTEEL™ and an architect rejects it?
  • In the unlikely event that ClarkWestern UltraSTEEL™ is rejected contact us and we will work through the details of the specific project.
• Can I have an exclusive on this?
  • No, ClarkWestern does not offer exclusives on any of their products. 
• Will engineering have all the back up to support a job with these products?
  • Yes. All of the engineering data and code approval data are available to support any project. And all of the data is third party tested and approved.