When planning a single or multi-dwelling project, light gauge steel or timber framing is an important consideration (of many). The traditional choice of timber construction is now changing, light gauge steel is becoming the more popular choice of framing among project managers and builders today.

LIGHT GAUGE STEEL
What makes light gauge steel frames and trusses so popular among project managers and builders? In addition to the many benefits light gauge steel framing can provide, it also ensures true, square, and straight framing that is cost-effective both in the short and long run.

STEEL HAS MANY ADVANTAGES
DURABLE: Steel framing is extremely durable and provides long-lasting results. It won’t rot, warp or crack, nor will it be harmed by moisture or termites.
NON-COMBUSTIBLE: As steel is non-combustible, it reduces the overall fire risk.
STRONG: A steel frame’s strength-to-weight ratio is much greater than that of a timber frame, allowing for wider spans and more efficient framing layouts to maximize floor space.
TRUE: Unlike timber, light gauge steel doesn’t split, bow or twist, so it’s always straight, true and accurate.
EFFICIENT: Due to the short construction time and the lack of need to straighten or plane walls, steel framing is an effective solution that results in less waste and lower labor costs.
SUSTAINABLE: With its 100% recyclable nature and reduced job site waste, steel framing is a more sustainable choice than timber framing.

TIMBER
The use of timber has been prevalent in residential construction for a long time. While there are some short-term benefits, there are more important long-term drawbacks that must be considered.

WHAT TIMBER HAS TO OFFER
STRONG: The frames are durable when made from good quality timber – but they require extra maintenance and protection against rot, decay, and termites.
CONVENIENT: Timber is typically a readily sourced product, but according to recent media reports, a mostly unforeseen shortage has pushed out construction timelines and increased costs.

THE DISADVANTAGES OF TIMBER
LABOUR INTENSIVE: You will need to straighten and plane timber walls on site, which adds to the project’s duration and cost.
INCREASED ON-SITE WASTE: Increasing the amount of waste on-site requires more bins and hiring more workers. When stick-built walls and roof trusses are built, there is inevitably more waste on-site.
TERMITES: The timber framing in your home is susceptible to termites – and if you have an infestation, you may have to repair a lot of damage to your home.
COMBUSTIBLE: In the event of a fire, timber is highly combustible, adding to the fuel load. Framing can also be damaged structurally.
MOISTURE: The presence of moisture in timber frames and trusses can cause rot and warping problems that are very costly to repair.

LIGHT GAUGE STEEL: WHY CHOOSE IT?
Due to its resistance to rot, pests, and moisture, steel reduces on-site labour and waste, as well as maintenance and repair costs. Builders and project managers are now discovering that light gauge steel frames and trusses are the ideal material for their building projects, despite timber’s long history of service. Construction sites throughout Australia are now dotted with them, and it’s easy to see why.

.

Contact our team at Metframe Australia to learn how we can help your business grow with light gauge steel frames and trusses.