Steel wall framing systems provide a durable, practical and lightweight structure that is now a competitive alternative to the traditional timber framed systems. As these new systems rise to parity with their timber counterparts its useful to take stock of the advantages and disadvantages of each system.
For a generation, timber wall frames have been a cornerstone of residential construction. Timber has been easy to source and the carpentry profession has become one of the most common in the building industry.
In recent years, however, globalisation and improvements in manufacturing have made light weight steel frames a serious alternative to traditional timber frames. These frames have been more common in commercial developments for quite some time. But you will no doubt have started to notice the distinctive blue steel frames becoming more prevalent in residential developments under construction.
In this insight article we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of steel stud wall frames in comparison to traditional timber stud wall frames.
The Rise of Steel Stud Frames
There are several factors that have seen helped steel stud wall frames become a serious alternative to traditional timber frames.
Firstly is that the industry has developed to a stage where steel stud frames have greater availability. This has driven costs of production down and made them more competitive as an alternative.
From a product perspective, steel stud wall frames are generally more durable. Many timber-framed homes are prone to termite damage which may cause long term structural issues. Fact: termites can’t eat steel. In addition to this, steel is non-combustible and retains its shape and structural properties at much higher temperatures.
Finally, steel frames are more resistant against flexing and warping, meaning your home stays looking like your home with straighter lines and finishes on your roof, ceilings, and walls. The gaps at windows and doors are better sealed for longer resulting in better insulation and lower energy costs.
The Advantages of Timber Stud Frames
Timber stud wall frames still hold the advantage in several areas, the first and foremost of which is cost. While steel stud wall frames are getting more competitive, timber still costs less. Materials are easier to come by and you don’t have to look far to find competent carpenters.
Timber also takes the points on sustainability. While steel stud frames are 100% recyclable, they are still manufactured products that do take high amounts of energy to produce, leaving a negative environmental impact. Timber, on the other hand, comes from a renewable source.
For developments in and around coastal areas, steel frames are at greater risk of corrosion with direct or indirect contact with water, wind and sand potentially causing rusting in the long term.
Lastly, timber is often favoured by builders because it is flexible enough to account for last minute on site changes. Timber is easy to source and can be cut to size when things don’t go exactly to plan.
Final Thoughts for Developers
In practice, most townhouse and unit developers will negotiate a fixed price contract with a builder. In this instance the bottom line is that both steel and timber stud frames are structurally interchangeable. The builder may have a preference, or the market at the particular point in the cycle may favour steel over timber, or vice versa.
At the end of the day, like the rest of the development process, it’s a cost v. benefit exercise. There are some instances where steel is worth the premium and others where timber will suffice. In any instance, it is a good idea to make sure that your consultant team is well placed to be able to advise you on the relative merits of the alternatives.
If you are looking for structural and drainage design engineers for your next unit, townhouse or multi-dwelling development, please get in contact with us so we can provide you with a comprehensive fee proposal for our services. We look forward to partnering with you on your next project.
