Steel-framed homes are not a new concept. This type of home began appearing in Australia in the mid-to-late 1940s. During the post-World War II era, there was a high demand for housing, and steel-framed houses were sturdy and built quickly.
Today, steel-framed homes are more popular than ever. There are a number of advantages to opting for a steel-framed home that helps make this an ideal choice for many people.
Benefits of steel-framed houses
- Strength
- Sustainability
- Versatility
- Chemicals
- Fire Resistance
- Termite Resistant
- Energy Efficiency
- Cost Effective
1. Strength
Steel has a well-earned reputation for its strength. Aside from being cyclone-rated, steel-framed homes have the highest strength-to-weight ratio of residential building materials. Also, weight-bearing steel frames are generally between 30% to 50% lighter than their timber counterparts. The ratio of strength to weight shows that a structure with steel framing will have a high level of durability. You can rest assured that your steel-framed home will not deteriorate over time, making the material an excellent investment.
2. Sustainability
Steel is a 100% recyclable material that maintains all of its original strength after it is reclaimed. Once recycled, steel can be used in a variety of ways, including to build steel-frame structures. Repurposing steel requires significantly less power from natural resources and releases lower emissions into the atmosphere. Steel is an exceptionally environmentally responsible building material. However, a single timber-framed house requires approximately 22 trees to frame.
3. Versatility
Steel-frame homes can be made to the aesthetic choices of the homeowner because steel is malleable, and design options are nearly limitless. Whether you prefer a modern look or a more traditional one, steel makes your vision possible. This level of design creativity is often not possible with timber-framed houses.
4. Chemicals
Unlike timber-framed buildings, those framed with steel do not need chemical finishes to enhance durability. Steel needs no pesticides to protect it from termites or other insects. Additionally, no coatings are necessary to aid in fire resistance. This eliminates the chance of poisoning nearby soil or water table seepage.
5. Fire Resistance
Because steel is non-combustible and holds its shape well, even in high heat, it is much more likely to withstand a fire than timber. These homes are easier to repair after a fire than wooden structures. Additionally, steel-framed houses assist in slowing the spread of fire as there are no embers to ignite other structures.
6. Termite Resistant
Your steel-framed home cannot be eaten by termites or other insects. This can save you thousands of dollars compared to an owner of a timber framed house who must pay to exterminate the termites and repair the damage. (These kinds of costs are typically not covered by home insurance policies.) Additionally, steel is safe from other environmental determinants that can impact timber, such as moisture, heat, and strong winds.
7. Energy Efficiency
The inherent properties of steel make steel-framed homes more energy-saving than their timber counterparts. Ease of thermal regulation is a significant factor in steel’s energy efficiency. Homes with steel frames are cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than structures built with brick or timber.
8. Cost Effective
Steel framed housing will help you save money in the years to come. Timber may appear to be the least expensive building material when speaking strictly about upfront costs. However, when you factor in longevity and a low need for maintenance, steel is a better value.
If you are considering new construction or renovating an existing building, please feel free to contact us for information about the many advantages of steel-framed buildings or to discuss designs and pricing.
