A Guide for Residential Steel Frame Houses| Every thing You Need to Know

Have you ever thought about living in a steel-frame house? They look cool, right? But there’s a lot more to these homes than just their looks.

In this blog, we’re going to talk about all things steel frame houses – how they’re built, why they’re different from brick houses, and even how to buy one.

We’ll also dive into some of the challenges you might face, like getting a mortgage or insurance, and how to tackle them. Whether you’re thinking about buying a steel frame house or just curious about them, this blog is for you.

Let’s get started and learn more about these interesting homes.

What Do We Mean by Steel Frame Houses?

Steel frame houses, as the name suggests, are types of buildings where the main structural framework is constructed using steel. This structure forms a ‘skeleton,’ which can then be filled in with various materials to create walls, floors, and ceilings.

The steel frame of the house provides the foundation for the design and shape of the building, and it is responsible for maintaining the structural integrity of the house.

The use of steel as a primary building material offers significant strength, flexibility, and durability. Steel frames are composed of columns, beams, and other structural elements made of steel, which are all connected together to form a rigid frame.

This type of construction is also known as ‘light gauge steel construction’ when the steel thickness is very small, often used in residential buildings.

In steel frame houses, there are generally two types of frames. The first one is the “Hot-rolled steel frame,” which uses steel I-beams and other wide flanges, and it is mostly used for large buildings.

The second one is the “Light gauge steel frame,” which uses thin steel sheets that are bent into C-sections or Z-sections, and it is used for smaller buildings or residential houses.

It’s important to note that while the steel frame provides the core structure of the house, a variety of finishes are available for the interior and exterior of the building, with options including but not limited to brick, wood, or vinyl siding for the exterior and drywall for interior walls, thus offering aesthetic versatility to homeowners.

Brief History and Evolution of Steel Frame Construction

The use of steel in building construction has a history that dates back to the late 19th century, with the evolution of industrial technology and mass production techniques. Here’s a brief timeline and overview of the evolution of steel frame construction:

Late 19th Century: The roots of steel frame construction began in the latter part of the 19th century during the Industrial Revolution. In 1884, the first steel-framed building, the Home Insurance Building in Chicago, was constructed. At ten stories tall, it was considered the first skyscraper, marking a significant milestone in construction history.
Early 20th Century: With the advent of new technologies and improved steel production methods, the early 20th century saw an increase in the use of steel in construction. In the 1920s and 1930s, steel-structured monuments like the Empire State Building in New York were built, showcasing the strength and potential of steel.
Post-WWII: In the period following World War II, the need for rapid and efficient construction increased, especially in the housing and commercial sectors. The mass production of steel made it a cost-effective choice for construction. Steel’s adaptability and durability also lent itself to the architectural styles of the time, contributing to the popularity of steel frame construction.
Late 20th Century – Early 21st Century: Advancements in computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) further increased the efficiency and precision of steel construction. Steel frame construction began to incorporate elements of sustainability, with steel being recognized as a recyclable and energy-efficient material. This period also saw a surge in the use of light gauge steel in residential construction because of its many advantages.
21st Century – Present: The use of steel in construction, particularly residential construction, has continued to grow. Prefabricated and modular steel homes have become more popular due to their speed of construction, cost-effectiveness, and reduced environmental impact. Today, innovative techniques such as 3D printing and digital fabrication are further pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with steel frame construction.

Can a house with a steel framework be insured easily?

Yes, houses with a steel framework can be insured easily. Insurance companies recognize the durability and safety of steel frames, which can withstand severe weather and are resistant to fire and termites.

However, premiums may vary based on factors like location, house size, and specific design features.

Understanding the Insurance Requirements for Steel Frame Houses

Know the Basics: First, it’s essential to understand that insurance for steel frame houses, like any home, will typically cover the structure of the home, personal belongings inside the home, liability protection, and additional living expenses if a disaster makes the home uninhabitable.
Consider the Unique Characteristics of Steel Frame Houses: Steel frame homes have certain attributes that can affect insurance. For example, they are resistant to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, and are non-combustible, which can lower fire risk. However, they may be susceptible to corrosion, particularly in coastal areas. Understanding these factors can help when discussing coverage needs with an insurance agent.
Find a Specialist Insurer: Not all insurance companies have experience with steel frame homes, so it might be beneficial to seek out an insurer who does. They’ll have a better understanding of the unique needs and risks associated with steel frame homes and can provide suitable coverage.
Appraisal: Get an accurate appraisal of your home’s replacement cost, which will determine the dwelling coverage amount on your insurance policy. This cost can differ from your home’s market value and should take into account the specific materials and work required to rebuild a steel frame home.
Location: Depending on your home’s location, you may need additional coverage. For example, if you live in a flood-prone or earthquake-prone area, you might need separate policies for these risks, as they are not typically covered in standard home insurance policies.
Shop Around: Lastly, get quotes from multiple insurance companies to ensure you’re getting the best rate and coverage for your steel frame home. Each insurer may evaluate risks and premiums differently, so shopping around can help you find the best deal.

Comparison of Insurance Rates Between Steel Frames and Other Types of Houses

Steel Frame Houses: As mentioned earlier, steel frame homes are often considered more durable and resistant to many common risks, such as fire, termites, and certain natural disasters, which can lead to lower insurance premiums. However, they may have higher replacement costs because of the specialized labor and materials needed for repair or rebuild, potentially affecting the premiums.

2. Wood Frame Houses: Wood is the most common material for residential construction. Wood-frame houses may have higher insurance rates compared to steel because they are more susceptible to fire, termites, and rot. However, their widespread use means that repair and replacement costs might be lower, potentially reducing insurance premiums.

3. Brick Houses: Brick homes are durable and fire-resistant, much like steel frame homes, which can lead to lower insurance premiums. However, they can be susceptible to damage from earthquakes or ground shifts, which might raise insurance rates in certain geographical locations.

4. Concrete Houses: Concrete homes are very durable and resistant to many risks, potentially resulting in lower insurance rates. But like steel frame houses, the specialized labor and materials for repairs or rebuilds may increase replacement costs, potentially affecting premiums.

5. Manufactured/Mobile Homes: These types of homes are typically more vulnerable to damage, especially from windstorms, leading to potentially higher insurance premiums.

Tips to Ensure Insurability of Steel Frame Houses

Regular Maintenance: Steel frame houses, while sturdy and durable, still require regular maintenance to prevent issues like rust or corrosion. Regular inspections and upkeep will ensure the home remains in good condition and insurable.
Fire Safety Measures: While steel frame houses are non-combustible, the contents inside are not. Install smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and consider a sprinkler system to further reduce fire risk.
Security Features: Install a home security system to protect against theft and vandalism. There are many insurers that offer discounts for homes with security systems.
Quality Construction: Use reputable builders and contractors familiar with steel frame construction. Quality workmanship can prevent future problems that might affect insurability.
Location Considerations: Location can influence insurability. For instance, if you’re in a flood or earthquake-prone area, consider additional reinforcements or modifications to reduce risk.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your home’s construction, including materials used, contractors involved, and any inspections or repairs. This information can be helpful when applying for insurance.
Shop Around: Insurance policies and rates can vary greatly between companies. Seek quotes from multiple insurers and consider using a broker who can help you find the best steel frame house insurance.
Understand Your Policy: Make sure you fully understand what your policy covers and what it doesn’t. For clarification, contact your insurance broker or agent.

Is it Possible to Identify Steel in Property?

Yes, it is possible to identify steel in a property, often through a combination of visual inspection and professional assessment. Visible steel beams, posts, or joists in the home’s structure can indicate a steel frame.

For a more accurate determination, a professional surveyor or structural engineer may use non-destructive testing techniques, such as magnetic particle testing or ultrasound, to confirm the presence of steel.

Techniques and Methods to Identify Steel in a Property

Visual Inspection: Look for exposed steel beams, posts, or joists in the structure of the building. Steel frames have a distinctive look, with slender, straight, and uniform profiles.
Building Plans: Review the architectural or engineering plans if they are available. These documents will typically show the type of materials used in the construction.
Non-Destructive Testing: Professionals may use non-destructive testing methods like magnetic particle testing, ultrasound, or X-ray to identify the presence of steel.
Consult a Professional: A building surveyor, architect, or structural engineer can often identify the materials used in a building’s construction.

Importance of Identification and Its Benefits

Maintenance and Repair: Knowing the materials used in a property can help in planning appropriate maintenance and repairs.
Insurance and Valuation: The presence of steel can affect the property’s insurance and valuation. Steel is a durable and fire-resistant material, which can positively impact these factors.
Renovations and Alterations: If you plan to renovate or alter the property, knowing it has a steel frame is vital, as it can impact the methods used and the project’s cost.

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Hire a Professional: Engage a professional like a building surveyor or structural engineer who is experienced in identifying building materials.
Detailed Inspection: A more thorough inspection, potentially involving some minor destructive testing (like removing a small section of drywall), may be needed.
Research: Research the property’s history, the builder, and the construction methods used at the time it was built can provide clues about the materials used.

Criteria	Steel Houses	Brick Houses
Structural Differences and Construction Methods	Steel frames from a skeleton, often prefabricated off-site and assembled on-site.	Bricks are stacked and secured with mortar, typically built on-site.
Durability, Maintenance, and Cost Comparisons	Highly durable, resistant to many natural elements. Lower maintenance, but potentially higher initial cost.	Very durable but can be susceptible to moisture and ground movement. Maintenance is moderate. Initial cost can be high due to labor-intensive processes.
Aesthetics	Modern, industrial look. Can be combined with other materials for various finishes.	Classic, timeless appeal. Offers a wide range of colors and textures.
Design Flexibility	High flexibility in design due to the strength of steel. Can create larger open spaces.	Less flexibility due to the load-bearing nature of brick walls. Traditional designs are more common.
Environmental Impact	Steel is recyclable, reducing waste. However, production can be energy-intensive.	Brick production has a high environmental impact, but bricks have a long lifespan and can be reused.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Steel Homes

Steel Homes
Advantages	1. Durability: Resistant to termites, mold, and rot. 2. Fire Resistance: Steel is non-combustible. 3. Strength: Can withstand severe weather conditions. 4. Design Flexibility: Allows for larger spans and open floor plans. 5. Environmentally Friendly: Steel is recyclable and produces less waste.
Disadvantages	1. Cost: Initial costs can be higher than traditional construction. 2. Thermal Conductivity: Without proper insulation, steel homes can be affected by extreme temperatures. 3. Modification Difficulty: Altering steel structures later can be challenging. 4. Corrosion Risk: In certain environments, steel can be prone to rust.

Learn: How Do Steel Houses Construction Process Work?

Designing the Structure: This is the first step, where architects and engineers create the design for the house, including the layout, size, and style. A specialized software program is used to create detailed plans and specifications.
Fabrication: Once the design is approved, the steel frame is fabricated. This process typically occurs off-site at a factory. Each piece of the frame is cut, shaped, and drilled to precise specifications. The pieces are also typically labeled to aid in assembly on the construction site.
Foundation Preparation: While the steel is being fabricated, the construction site is prepared. The foundation is poured after the land has been cleared, excavated, and the foundation is poured. The type of foundation will depend on the design of the house and local building codes.
Assembly: The fabricated steel sections are transported to the construction site, where they’re assembled according to the design plan. This often involves bolting and welding the sections together.
Installation of Walls and Roof: After the frame is erected, the walls and roof are installed. This could involve a variety of materials, including steel panels, wood, or other cladding materials.
Insulation and Interior Finishing: Once the exterior is complete, insulation is installed. This is critical in steel homes to control temperature and moisture. After insulation, the interior of the house is finished, including electrical wiring, plumbing, installing drywall, painting, and fitting out the kitchen, bathrooms, and other rooms.
Final Inspection: The last step is a thorough inspection to ensure everything is built in accordance with the plan and the code. Once passed, the house is ready to be moved into.

Roles of Architects, Engineers, and Builders

Architects:

Design: Architects are responsible for creating the overall design of the house, including the layout, aesthetics, functionality, and how the building will fit into its environment.
Client Liaison: They liaise with clients to understand their needs and preferences and translate these into the design.
Building Codes and Regulations: It is the architect’s responsibility to make sure the design complies with local building codes and regulations.
Documentation: They prepare detailed drawings and specifications that will guide the builders in the construction process.

Engineers:

Structural Integrity: Engineers, particularly structural engineers, ensure the design is safe and structurally sound. They calculate loads and stresses to determine the appropriate size and specification of the steel framing.
Technical Design: They collaborate with architects in the technical aspects of the design, including electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems.
Inspection: Engineers often play a role in inspecting the work during construction, ensuring it aligns with the design and meets safety standards.

3. Builders:

Construction: Builders are responsible for the actual construction of the house. They follow the architect’s designs and engineer’s specifications to build the structure.
Project Management: Builders often act as project managers, coordinating the work of various trades, managing timelines, and overseeing quality control.
Building Codes and Regulations: They ensure the construction work complies with all local building codes and regulations.
Inspection: Builders coordinate with local authorities for necessary inspections throughout the construction process.

Is it Possible to Get a Mortgage on a Steel Frame Home?

Yes, getting a mortgage on a steel-frame home is generally possible. Like any home purchase, mortgage approval involves several components, such as a borrower’s credit history, income, the appraised value of the home, and the lender’s specific policies.

Steel frame homes, due to their durability and resilience, may even be viewed favorably by some lenders.

However, not all lenders may be familiar with steel frame homes, especially if they are less common in your area, and this could potentially influence their decision-making process.

It’s also worth noting that if you’re building a steel-frame home, you might need a construction loan rather than a conventional mortgage.

Short-term construction loans are used to finance the construction of a home. Once construction is completed, the loan can often be converted into a traditional mortgage.

As with any home purchase, it’s essential to shop around and speak with multiple lenders to find the best mortgage for your situation.

Consulting with a mortgage broker could also be beneficial, as they can help navigate the different options and guide you to lenders familiar with steel frame homes.

What is the Importance of Steel Frame Building Survey?

A steel frame building survey is crucial to assess the property’s structural integrity, identify potential issues like corrosion, and ensure compliance with building codes.

It can influence insurance, valuation, renovations, and safety. The survey offers valuable insights for homeowners, buyers, builders, and insurers.

Explanation of What a Building Survey Involves

A building survey, often conducted by a qualified surveyor or structural engineer, involves a comprehensive examination of a property to assess its structural integrity and condition and to identify any potential issues. Here’s what a building survey generally involves:

Structural Analysis: This involves checking the property’s foundation, walls, roofs, floors, and other structural components for any signs of damage, instability, or wear. In the case of a steel frame building, this would include inspecting the steel elements for any signs of rust, corrosion, or structural weakness.
Roof and Loft Inspection: The surveyor will inspect the roof and loft space, looking for signs of water damage, insulation issues, or structural problems.
Exterior Check: This includes checking the outside of the property for any issues, such as dampness, cracks, or subsidence.
Interior Assessment: The surveyor will inspect each room in the property, including floors, walls, ceilings, doors, windows, and any installed appliances. They’ll also look for signs of dampness, mold, or insect infestation.
Utility Review: The condition of utilities such as the electrical system, plumbing, heating, and ventilation systems will be checked.
Grounds and Boundaries: The survey may also include an examination of the property’s grounds, including outbuildings, fences, and garden walls.

Why It’s Especially Important for Steel Frame Buildings

Detection of Corrosion: Steel can corrode and rust, especially if it is not properly maintained or protected. A building survey can identify signs of corrosion early, which can be crucial in preventing further structural damage.
Assessment of Structural Integrity: Steel frame buildings are known for their strength, but the connections between steel components are vital to maintaining this strength. A survey can assess these connections, ensuring the structure’s integrity.
Verification of Construction Quality: Not all steel frame buildings are built to the same standards. A survey can verify the quality of the steel used, the fabrication process, and whether the building was constructed correctly.
Identification of Modification Needs: If the building has been modified or if new modifications are planned, a survey can help ensure that these changes have not (and will not) adversely affect the building’s structure.
Compliance with Building Regulations: Steel frame buildings must comply with certain building regulations, which can differ from those for other types of construction. A survey can confirm that the building meets these regulatory standards.

Potential Problems That a Building Survey Can Highlight in Steel Frame Homes

Corrosion: The most common issue in steel frame homes is corrosion or rust, especially in areas with high moisture or saline content in the air. If left unchecked, corrosion can weaken the structural integrity of the building.
Structural Weakness: If the steel frame has been improperly installed or the connections between the steel components are weak, it can result in a structurally unsound building.
Poor Insulation: Steel is a conductor of heat, so steel frame homes without proper insulation can be inefficient in terms of heating and cooling.
Faulty Construction: Any shortcuts or faults in the construction process, such as poor welding or the use of inferior-quality steel, can lead to long-term problems.
Moisture Intrusion: Although steel itself is not susceptible to mold or rot, other parts of the building can be. If there’s improper sealing or a lack of vapor barriers, it can lead to moisture intrusion causing damage to the home.
Non-Compliance with Building Codes: Steel frame homes must adhere to specific building codes, and a building survey can identify areas of non-compliance.
Inadequate Fire Protection: While steel is non-combustible, high temperatures can weaken it. If the home lacks proper fire-resistant materials or fire protection measures, it could pose a risk in case of fire.

Wrapping Up

We’ve journeyed through the intricate world of steel frame houses, unpacking their history, understanding their construction, and exploring their pros and cons.

We delved into the essentials like insurance, mortgage, and the importance of conducting a thorough building survey.

These steel structures offer a unique blend of design flexibility, strength, and sustainability, making them a compelling choice for modern living.

However, they also present unique challenges that require careful consideration.

Whether you’re contemplating buying or building one, the knowledge you’ve gained from this blog will help guide your decision-making process.

As we continue to innovate and redefine our living spaces, steel frame houses will undoubtedly play a significant role. So, why not be a part of this exciting shift in architecture?