Steel is an incredible building material, and in recent decades, the residential construction industry has leant towards using steel products over wood more and more. Structural steel has helped shape the modern world, and a steel-framed house will last longer, be more sustainable, and cost you less in the long-run than wood. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of using wood over steel in residential construction.
A steel-framed house is desirable for a number of reasons. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of using wood over steel in residential construction.
Steel Is Strong
Of course, it is in every home-owner’s interest to live in a house that is safe and strong, and steel provides these comforts in spades. Structural steel is one of the strongest materials used in the residential construction industry. It can withstand everything from harsh weather, to fires, to attack from insects. Steel won’t crack, warp, twist, split or rot, it can be treated to resist rust, and many manufacturers offer warranties that span decades. In a nutshell, it provides strength you can rely on.
Steel Is Attractive
Most modern designers and architects favour steel for its aesthetic appeal and versatility when it comes to creative freedom. Steel fabricators can shape steel to meet the requirements of even the most complex architectural projects. It is also sleek and attractive, and pairs well with modern materials like glass and concrete, making it perfect for contemporary residential builds.
Steel’s unmatchable strength-to-weight ratio makes it possible to span greater distances and therefore create larger and more open spaces. Lastly, steel can be textured and finished to suit almost any design.
Steel Is Sustainable
More and more home owners are opting to build with sustainable materials in order to help offset the impact of tree consumption. Unlike wood-framed houses, which can require up to 50 trees worth of lumber, no trees are required in steel manufacturing, meaning our sensitive ecosystems can be left untouched.
Steel is one of the most recycled materials in the world, with a global recycling rate of over 90%. It can be melted down and re-fabricated again again without losing its structural integrity, which in many makes it the perfect building material for our environment!
Steel Can Save You Money
Of course, when building a home, keeping costs down where possible is of utmost concern for all. And despite many misleading preconceptions, steel is actually a very economical building material when compared to wood.
Yes, steel framed houses may require a slightly larger initial investment, but you will certainly be saving money in the long run. Steel requires none of the costly repairs and maintenance the wood is notorious for. Home insurance for steel-framed houses is also cheaper; and investing in steel will boost the value of your home, which can be very lucrative if you decide to sell!
Steel Is Favoured By Builders In Australia
Lastly, for the reasons above and more, steel is the building material of choice for many builders in Australia. It is worker-friendly. It’s light and easy to transport. It doesn’t need to be treated with harmful pesticides, preservatives or glues. And it arrives on site ready to install, with all the cutting and prepping being done off-site.
Need a Steel Supplier?
If you are considering steel frames for house and would like a professional opinion, we can help!
Our team of expert steel fabricators have the experience and knowledge to answer any of your questions and will ensure that you find the best solution to suit your needs. Contact us today, simply call, fax, email or drop by our Brookvale location.
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