Sioux Chief 53812 Steel Stud G...
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Sioux Chief 53812 Steel Stud Guard with 8 Mounting Holes, 18-Gauge

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Model: 538-12

In Stock (leaves warehouse same day if ordered before 3pm ET)

$0.99
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Sioux Chief Steel Stud Guard with 8 Mounting Holes, 18-Gauge

The Sioux Chief Steel Stud Guard is a protective plate designed to shield plumbing lines, electrical wiring, and other utility runs from accidental damage caused by drywall screws, nails, and other fasteners driven into wood or metal studs. Formed from 18-gauge steel for durability, this stud guard family is available in 5" x 12" and 5" x 18" sizes to accommodate different stud bay depths and coverage needs, and each plate features 8 pre-punched mounting holes for fast, secure fastening directly to the framing member. Whether used in residential remodels, new construction, or commercial build-outs, these guards add a critical layer of protection wherever pipes or cables pass through framing members close to the wall surface.

Key Features

  • Size Range: Available in 5" x 12" and 5" x 18" sizes, allowing installers to match plate coverage to the stud depth and the length of protection required.
  • 18-Gauge Steel Construction: Formed from 18-gauge steel for a rigid, puncture-resistant barrier that stands up to drywall screws and nails driven from the finished side of the wall.
  • 8 Mounting Holes: Each guard includes 8 pre-punched mounting holes, speeding installation and ensuring the plate stays firmly seated against the framing member.
  • Pipe and Wire Protection: Positioned over plumbing lines, electrical cable, or other utilities routed through bored holes in studs, preventing costly damage and callbacks after drywall installation.
  • Framing Compatibility: Designed for quick face-mount installation on standard wood or metal stud framing in both new construction and remodel applications.
  • Professional-Grade Protection: A straightforward, code-conscious solution favored by plumbers and electricians for safeguarding rough-in work before finish trades begin.

Technical Specifications

  • Country of Origin: USA
  • Material: Steel
  • Gauge: 18-Gauge
  • Mounting Holes: 8
  • Available Sizes: 5" x 12", 5" x 18"

Typical Applications

  • Plumbing Rough-In Protection
  • Electrical Wiring and Cable Protection
  • Residential Remodeling and New Construction
  • Commercial Framing and Build-Outs
  • Protection at Stud Penetrations for Pipe and Conduit Runs

Why Sioux Chief?

Sioux Chief builds its steel stud guards from 18-gauge steel with a practical 8-hole mounting pattern, giving contractors a dependable way to protect completed plumbing and electrical rough-in work before walls are closed up. Manufactured in the USA, these guards are a simple, cost-effective safeguard against the drywall screws and nails that cause the majority of in-wall pipe and wire punctures, helping tradespeople avoid rework and callbacks on every job.

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Manufacturer Resources

Product Specs

Country of Origin:
United States
Product Finish:
18-Gauge
Product Type:
Stud Guard
Department:
Plumbing
Product Group:
Rough-In and Supports
Product Subgroup:
Hangers and Supports
Product Material:
Steel
Product Size:
5 x 12"

Sioux Chief 538-12 – Frequently Asked Questions

1) Will a stud guard plate stop a drywall screw from hitting my PEX or copper line?
That is exactly what it is for. The Sioux Chief guard is formed from 18-gauge steel and face-mounts over the bored hole in the stud, putting a rigid barrier between the finished wall surface and whatever is routed through the framing, water lines, DWV, electrical cable or conduit. It is installed before drywall goes up, while the rough-in is still open.
2) Can these guards be used on metal studs or only wood framing?
Both. The plates are made for quick face-mount installation on standard wood or metal stud framing, in new construction or remodel work. The 8 pre-punched holes take whatever fastener suits the framing member you are screwing into.
3) Do the Sioux Chief stud guards come with screws or nails?
No fasteners are included. The plates ship with 8 pre-punched mounting holes and you supply the screws or nails appropriate to the wood or metal framing you are fastening to.
4) Is 18-gauge heavy enough for a nail plate, or do I need something thicker?
18-gauge steel is the common weight for pipe and wire protection plates and it is what these Sioux Chief guards are formed from. It gives a rigid, puncture-resistant barrier against the drywall screws and finish nails that cause most in-wall punctures. If your inspector is calling for a specific plate thickness on a particular penetration, match that number; for routine rough-in protection in wood or metal studs, 18-gauge is the standard choice.
5) Can an electrician use a plumbing stud guard for cable protection?
Yes. Although Sioux Chief sells it into the plumbing trade, the plate is simply a steel barrier over a framing penetration and the description covers electrical wiring, cable and conduit runs as intended uses. Electricians and plumbers use the same plate on the same wall.
6) Are Sioux Chief stud guards made in the USA?
Yes, the steel stud guards are manufactured in the United States. That matters on public and institutional jobs with domestic-sourcing requirements on the material submittal.
How fast can I get the Sioux Chief 538-12 delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the continental U.S. Need it urgently? Contact Us for expedited shipping options.
Can I return it if it doesn’t work for me?
Yes—ZenSupply offers a hassle-free return policy. If the product isn’t the right fit, reach out to our support team for a return authorization or setup a return by following our return instructions.
Does the Sioux Chief 538-12 come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The Sioux Chief 538-12 is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. For full warranty terms, check the product documentation or Contact Us.
How do I get technical support or installation help for the Sioux Chief 538-12?
You can call, text, or email our expert support team for fast answers. We’re here to help with product selection, installation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact Us
Why buy the Sioux Chief 538-12 from ZenSupply?
ZenSupply makes it easy to get the commercial door hardware you need—fast shipping, expert support, and rewards on every order. Our team is always ready to help you choose the right product for your project.