When steel framing is used in buildings it enables architectural and design flexibility that is cost efficient, sustainable, durable and safe with resistance to fire, corrosion and pests. Steel framing stands the test of time, it’s light and easy to transport and can handle severe bush fire temperatures. It has a structural integrity that means it retains its shape and is safe.
Steel is a versatile building material, which has led to its inclusion in nearly every stage of the construction process from framing and floor joists, to roofing materials.
Some benefits of Steel framing include:
- Steel framing is strong and lightweight.
If you weigh a 2×4 of wood and a 2×4 of steel, the steel will weigh more as the result of its density. When it comes to framing, however, the design of a steel I-beam will almost always cause it to be lighter than the lightest, structurally sound wood beam design.
There is less labour involved in building with steel and as its lighter-weight this reduces transport costs, and can also simplify the design of a building’s foundation and other structural support systems, which can further reduce project budgets.
- Steel framing is time efficient.
The Steel industry is a highly competitive space, time equals money in all projects and the struggle to come in under budget and ahead of schedule is a common expectation from clients. The risks associated with fast tracking projects can result in increased errors and compromise the quality of the project. By choosing to work with steel these demands can be met without compromise due to its efficiency. Steel framing parts can be pre-fabricated on the manufacturers site, easily transported to site and are ready to be assembled. This results in a quicker construction time making it possible to complete projects large or small within the allocated timeframes.
- Steel framing is cost effective.
When it comes to projects that involve steel framing the cost savings are mainly attributed to construction, labour and transportation. However, there are other factors that assist with cost savings when using steel including:
- Steel is a fully recyclable material eliminating construction site waste costs.
- A steel framework requires little to no maintenance and repairs are minimal making it an economical choice for construction projects.
- Increased levels of competition from local and overseas suppliers has caused steel fabricators to become more innovative and review their fabrication procedures to help reduce costs which in-turn can be passed on to clients.
- Insurance companies tend to favour steel framework buildings offering lower premiums on policies as steel structures can withstand many elements such as severe weather.
- Steel framing is versatile and adaptive.
The versatility of steel framing makes it a popular option for the construction industry. It is favoured with architects and designers who are largely influential in choosing the materials involved in any construction project and it allows for creative design resulting in aesthetically beautiful buildings that are also safe and resilient. This same design versatility and flexibility is also popular in the residential sector, steel frameworks are now more commonly used for siding and roofing materials.
Steel’s adaptability means it can work well with other materials especially wood. A lot of the new building developments across Sydney feature both, taking advantage of the strength, durability and support benefits offered by steel, paired with the aesthetics of wood. This pairing has also become popular in feature stairs across some of the cities most impressive buildings such as Urban Growth’s (formerly Landcom) offices in Sydney.
- Steel framing is energy conscious and environment friendly.
Most construction companies, architects and designers have a vested interest in the environment. New developments incorporate environmentally and energy friendly practices, the Australian Government acknowledge and reward such initiatives by rating the buildings performance across both energy savings and use of environmentally friendly materials.
As steel is made from recycled materials and can be recycled at the end of its lifespan it is the world’s most recycled product. Since 1990, the steel industry has reduced energy intensity per tonne of steel produced by 28% and CO2 emissions by 35% per tonne of steel shipped.
Steel framed buildings are energy efficient. The correlation between high quality steel pre-fabricated products and insulation result in creating an air-tight building. With the addition of solar paneling and steel roofing elements will decrease the heat gain and increase energy savings.
If you would like any further information about our products and services or are seeking help for an upcoming project, feel free to reach out for a confidential chat with our professional and friendly team.
P: (02) 4869 4700
E: estimator@dunsteel.com.au
L: Dunsteel Group