Why build with steel? Steel framing is cost effective, lightweight, easy to handle and manufactured under strict quality control guidelines.  Steel framing is also termite proof, non combustible, and dimensionally consistent.  It provides greater design flexibility and is much easier to disassemble when making changes or remodeling.  Steel has been used in commercial building for years because of its many positive qualities.

What about cost?  The price of steel has been relatively constant over the last decade.  While the price of traditional wood framing materials has been erratic and growing at a rate much faster than inflation, steel prices have only experienced small quarterly adjustments if any.  Builders interviewed nationwide have affirmed that framing with steel is commonly less expensive than traditional wood framing.

Will the steel frame interfere with portable radios, phones, or TV reception?  No.  Waves pass through the space between studs allowing the use of all of the radios, phones and television sets in your home.

What about lightning?  The steel frame offers the home occupants better protection than any other construction system.  Scientists recommend seeking shelter in steel frame structures during lightning storms, because the steel frame provides a path to the ground reducing the likelihood of explosions, secondary fires or personal injury.

Can my home be energy efficient?  Yes.  Steel framing can be designed to meet or exceed government energy efficiency standards.  In addition, by staying straight and true the steel framing helps prevent cracks due to shrinking or warping.  This prevents air leaks that result in costly loss of energy.  While steel members will conduct heat and cold, conventional methods and material are used to block this energy transfer.  Several of our manufacturers allow for R-30 walls with standard fiberglass installation.

Can I convert my plan from wood to steel?  Any set of plans for wood can easily be converted to light gauge steel.  Usually pricing on your plans can be completed within one week.

What is the environmental impact on using steel?  The current overall recycling rate of the steel industry is 66%, however, more steel recycling is done every year.  Some of our manufactures only use recycled steel which makes our frame members 100% ``green"

Are costly tools needed to build with steel?  No. A few items are necessary such as a screw gun, chop saw, aviation snips and clamps.  However, all of our frames are manufactured which means at least 90% of the cuts are already completed.  The only requirement is to assemble according to the plan.  Many times our process is defined as a large erector set.

Is steel readily available?  While many lumber yards are stocking steel track and studs, it is often non-load bearing.  That is why Residential Steel Framing Systems was established to make structural steel framing products available locally.  We also have access to local structural engineers who are adept in designing any structure with steel.  Whatever the need we can convert it into steel.

Does a steel frame house look any different?  Absolutely not.  You can apply the same interior and exterior finishing materials as a wood frame home.  However, you get a superior product.  And yes, you can hang pictures in drywall or anchor into a steel stud using special small head screws.

Are trades available who know steel framing?  Yes.  Again, that is why Residential Steel Framing Systems was formed.  We know who can work with steel frame designs both residential and multifamily.  The most common trades requiring expertise are plumbers and electricians.