Steel Home Advantages
Building Homes to Last
Renovation spending has risen exponentially in recent
years. With so much emphasis being placed on the home, consumers
are constantly looking for new materials to enhance their new homes and
for remodeling projects.
Steel framing is playing an important role in the
homebuilding industry and provides several key benefits.
Strength and Lightweight: Steel
framing is significantly stronger than wood and will not splinter
or crack. The strength to weight ratio of steel is the highest of
any residential building material. Because steel is strong and
lightweight, it is beneficial for builders to work with and can be
engineered to better withstand hurricanes and
earthquakes.
Durability: Unlike steel, other
materials can expand, warp and twist to cause settlement cracks or
floor squeaks that require builders to make costly repairs after
the home is completed.
Non-combustible: Steel is a highly
fire-resistant material. So a steel frame can better withstand a
fire.
Recyclability: Building with steel
preserves natural resources and creates less waste—all of
which is recyclable. To build an average 2,000 square foot
home takes an acre of trees (about 40 – 50 trees), while a
steel-framed house can be made with the steelfrom six recycled
cars.
Healthy: Steel is naturally termite
proof and because it is galvanized it will not rust. Since it does
not have to be treated with pesticides or other chemicals,
steel framing contributes to better indoor air quality.
Flexibility: Unlike wood, steel can
be easily cut to custom lengths and widths so builders can design
any type of home—from traditional to contemporary
to avantgarde. Homes can have larger open spaces, longer floor
spans and higher walls.
For more information about building a home with steel,
go to the Steel Framing Alliance.
|
