Steel is known for its durability, resistance to corrosion, and its modern, contemporary appearance. It is used in many construction applications including wall frame.
In architectural applications, steel frame is a technique in building construction where a skeleton frame composed of steel columns and horizontal I-beams is built in a rectangular grid. This supports the floors, roof and walls of the building.
In steel framing is done through a process called roll forming where a sheet steel passes through a series of rollers to form the bends that makes the shape of a stud.
Steel framing is widely used today because it is the most cost-effective and cost-saving solution to the limitations presented in building construction projects using lumber. The best quality of steel wall frame can be non-combustible, termite resistant, and stable in terms of dimensions. Particularly with steel wall frames that are coated with zinc, the steel frame can be made corrosive resistant for several years.
Many builders also prefer the use of steel wall frames for economic and practical reasons. Since steel does not shrink, split, or warp, warranty call-backs for nail pops and drywall cracks after the completion of the structure is avoided. Maintenance cost is also reduced since steel is immune to termite and insect infestation and is resistant to rot and mold.
With steel frames, there is less scrap than with the use of lumber. This means that there is minimal cost in the disposal of discarded materials. Steel framing is also manageable since the steel studs weigh about 1/3 less than wood studs making it easier to transport, handle and install.
Steel frames have also been tested and proven to exhibit excellent performance in high wind and seismic zones. This quality, added to the non-combustibility property of steel, does not only present security and safety for the building owners but offers a potential higher revenue in the marketing of the building structure.
Steel wall frames are also environment friendly since steel does not emit volatile organic compounds thus good quality indoor air is maintained. Its production is sustainable and eco friendly since steel frames contain 25% recycled steel and is itself 100% recyclable.
Even more advantageous are steel wall frames that are produced in a controlled manufacturing environment because there is assurance of its precision of design and production to meet quality standards.
These qualities along with the popular recognition of steel as a superior framing product, make steel wall frames a safe and secured, cost-effective, time-saving solution to building constructions.
