ANSWER:
Residential steel framing members are cost effective, light weight, easy to handle, and manufactured in conditions that allow strict quality control. When designed properly, the result is solid, non-combustible, and durable. Because steel can be pre-cut to desired lengths and is a stable material, you don't need to sort out defective pieces and can erect a frame faster. Also, steel scrap has value and can be recycled.

 
QUESTION:
Will my home look different than the rest in my development?

ANSWER:
No, only if you want it to. In fact, because of steel's properties your architect can design your home with larger open spaces. With steel framing, walls will remain straight and true, preventing call backs due to nail pops and shrinkage cracks. Finishes can be the same as you are accustomed to using.

 
QUESTION:
What is open web systems?

ANSWER:
Open web, or parallel flat chord trusses, represent the predominate type of floor truss used in homes.
They typically consist of a wood top and bottom chord, usually 2x4 material, and wood web materials connected at joints with metal plates. A few manufacturers use steel webs.
One advantage of open web over dimension lumber or I-joists is that the open space between web members allows for easier routing of utilities and ductwork. Open web floor trusses eliminate the need for field cuts for utility installations, reducing the risk of structural damage in the field.
However, truss dimensions must be known in advance to be within fairly close tolerances. Manufacturers and codes generally do not permit trusses to be trimmed or altered in the field.

 
QUESTION:
What about the environmental impact of steel construction?

ANSWER:
The overall recycling rate of the steel industry is 66%, the highest in the country, offering an environmentally sound home framing alternative. Steel framing scrap is a valuable commodity that should not end up in a landfill.

 
QUESTION:
What about cost?

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

 
QUESTION:
What about mold?

ANSWER:
Steel does not promote the growth of mold and reduces the threat of staggering litigation. Mold requires an organic nutrient source and moisture like wood. Kiln dried lumber still has between 11-14% residual water content

 
QUESTION:
What about lighting?

ANSWER:
Steel buildings are lighting resistant because steel framing provides multiple conductive paths directly to the ground. The steel frame reduces the likelihood of explosions, secondary fires or personal injury. Steel skyscrapers have provided occupants with safe offices and residence for years.

 
QUESTION:
What about fire?

ANSWER:
Steel framed houses are fire resistant.
Studs, joists, and rafters do not add fuel to a fire.
One third of all fires start in the wall cavity.
Steel framed houses do not "melt" in a fire. Framing members can resist up to 1,800 degrees F.
Actual case studies show steel houses perform very well in house fires, with little or no damage to the framing structure.
Houses framed all out of steel can qualify for lower insurance rates.

 
QUESTION:
What about earthquakes or hurricanes?

ANSWER:
Steel framing can be engineered to meet the highest seismic and wind loads prescribed by building codes.
Steel has the highest strenhth to weight ratio of any framing materials, a lighter structure with stronger connections results in lower damage from seismic force.
Steel's strength and resiliency help it to survive earthquakes.
Smaller probability of damage in high winds; stronger connections (screwed vs. nailed) can withstand greater winds.
For generation we have relied on the strength and durability of steel in our commercial buildings, hospitals and schools.

 
QUESTION:
Are there any environmental benefits?

ANSWER:
Steel offers builders an environmentally friendly alternative to wood.
There is little waste when using steel framing materials.
Builders can produce their disposal and divert material from local landfills (2% - steel vs. 20% - lumber).
Building an average wood-frame home generates approzimately 50 cubic feet of landfill waste, while a comparable steel home generates about 1.5 cubic feet of waste.