Advantages of steel framing

The frame of a building is its backbone, so it’s important that it is both safe and secure. Both steel and wood frames have their advantages and disadvantages, and considerations when choosing between them should include cost, longevity, sustainability and flexibility during the construction process. In Australia, more than 80% of homes have timber frames. Everyone knows that timber was the predominant framing method in the past due to its cost-effectiveness. However, steel framing has seen an incredible uptake in recent times. Steel frames pack an array of advantages and offer a tantalizing choice for any home builder.

When it comes to homes in Australia, many people think Steel Framed Homes are a relatively new concept in modern housing.  However, what many people don’t realise is that steel has been used as a building material for homes in Australia for over 50 years.

Advantages of steel frame houses include:

Steel-framed houses are lighter, more durable, and more cost-effective to assemble than building with timber. Steel frame houses tend to allow less movement as steel frames don’t twist, warp, shrink or buckle, while timber frames are more malleable to their environment. Meaning your home stays looking like your home with straighter lines and finishes on your roof, ceilings, and walls.

The ability of steel frames to seal around door frames and windows also have added environmental benefits. The sealing around entrances can reduce the cost and environmental impact of running heating and cooling in the home.

• Termite Proof
  Termites can be an absolute menace to many homes. Many timber-framed homes suffer termite damage that isn’t covered by insurance and repairs can cost well into the thousands.
• Fire Resistance
  Steel is non-combustible and retains its shape at much higher temperatures than timber can. Cap your home with a Colorbond roof and the risk of fire drops dramatically.
• Solid Foundations
  Steel can boast the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any current residential building material. This means your home and its foundations can stand up to stronger winds, fiercer storms, and even the occasional lightning strike.
• 50 Year Structural Warranty
  A steel frame home is in it for the long haul. Building a steel frame home is an investment for the future. Backing it up with a 50-year structural warranty* that your home stands the test of time.
• 100% Recyclable
  Some steel frame homes are made from 100% recyclable BlueScope steel.