A-Z of Self Build Guides Steel Frame Houses

Date Published:

26/01/2009

How Does Steel Compare To Timber?

In comparison with timber framed buildings, Kane says there are a number of things that a builder or architect can do with steel that can’t be done with timber. 'Steel allows construction to go a lot higher, which is one of the main reasons it used in so many skyscraper buildings these days. One of the reasons steel can go higher is that it is man-made and therefore can be fashioned to any size. Timber section sizes are smaller and less versatile as they can only be as big as a tree.'

Kane notes that steel is a good material for homes, in particular tall townhouses. It is also extremely durable, lasting for a long while before deterioration sets in. He says, 'I was recently at a site where we are renovating a 200-year-old house and the steel that was used in the construction is still going strong. One thing that can be important though if it is near the sea is to ensure that the steel is galvanised, which will stop it from eroding too quickly.'

How Eco-Friendly Is Steel?

Possible erosion is one of only very few downsides to building with steel. However, another is its lack of green qualities. Compared to timber, steel is not as environmentally friendly. A spokesperson for eco homes and sustainable development portal www.whatgreenhome.com says, 'Whichever way you look at it, steel can’t be considered a "green" material. Making it requires burning fossil fuel bi-products at extremely high temperatures, which uses large amounts of energy and releases CO2 into the atmosphere.'

Kane notes that compared to building with timber, steel constructions don’t require cutting down trees. It is a fair point – if indiscriminate or illegal felling is practised – but from an environmental perspective, when trees are forested (managed) and only used from FSC sources they are beyond compare because no CO2, which is the major greenhouse gas that causes climate change is emitted when trees are felled.

What Does Steel Cost?

On the issue of price Kane says steel costs less than either masonry or brickwork. 'There isn’t really an approximate cost, though. It really depends on the size of the building as it is priced per tonne and the amount used in any one building may not be the same as any other. It is a very cost-effective material though, which is another reason it is used in the construction of so many modern skyscrapers. Another benefit is that it can help to keep labour costs low because the work can be done so quickly.'