In recent years, building a steel frame home has become a very popular option in Europe. However, there are still some myths and preconceived ideas that may create doubt in the minds of potential buyers.
The main rumours about a steel frame home
This article aims to unravel the myths and bring to light the truth behind constructions made from metal profiles. Below, you will find a list of the most widespread ones.
Myth of reduced resistance to earthquakes
A widespread myth about buildings with lightweight metal frames is that they lack the necessary resistance against earthquakes. In reality, the galvanized steel used in the metal structure is a material with excellent seismic resistance.Engineers design these constructions to successfully withstand large earthquakes, up to a magnitude of 8 on the Richter scale. Thus, they actually provide a very safe and stable environment, recommended especially for areas with high seismic risk.
The behaviour of steel buildings in the event of an earthquake has been studied globally. Most research has focused on testing and modelling the structure's walls (Gad et al. 1999, Fulop & Dubina 2004, Fiorino et al. 2004), emphasizing the structural elastic properties (Kawai et al. 1999).
In a very detailed study, the design and control through vibration measurements of a two-story metal house with an unusual configuration are presented. The construction was designed for a high seismic risk area in the city of Ploiesti (Romania). It was found that the presence of OSB panels in the structure of the walls and roof roughly doubled the structure's rigidity and brought significant improvements to areas exposed to major risks.
Myth of low energy efficiency and the 'cold' sensation
With appropriate insulation technologies and efficient closures, these houses can be just as energy-efficient as any others. In fact, the truth is that we can significantly reduce energy consumption compared to conventional buildings, even reaching below 50% of their energy requirements.
This measure not only brings savings but also has a positive impact on the environment by contributing to reducing the carbon footprint and promoting sustainability in construction.
Myth of high construction costs
In some cases, clients going through the exploration phase are tempted to believe that a building with a metal structure should have a much lower cost compared to one made of masonry.
The reality is that the quality-price ratio for a metal house is much superior: the budget allocated for constructing a modest masonry house can successfully cover the purchase of a premium package steel frame home. Additionally, beneficiaries enjoy a record execution period, remarkable energy efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, impressive earthquake resistance, and a gain in usable area of about 10-15%.
Myth of rapid corrosion, contraction, and deformation
With proper treatment and adequate maintenance, steel is protected from long-term corrosion. Steel metal profiles used in civil constructions are shielded from corrosion by a continuous coating of two layers of hot-dip zinc, while the natural properties of steel protect it from contraction and deformation. Galvanization is one of the most effective methods to combat metal corrosion. Additionally, galvanized steel does not suffer from fungal or biological deterioration and is not susceptible to insect infestation.
Our suppliers in the metallurgy field provide us with a 75-year warranty for the raw materials, even when they come into contact with the external environment. However, this aspect becomes less significant because the component profiles forming a metal frame are designed to be used in 'sandwich' wall types, completely shielded from any harsh weather conditions.
Myth of the limited exterior design of a steel frame home
Sometimes there is a perception that houses built with a steel structure have an industrial or impersonal appearance. Through proper design and suitable finishes, these houses can achieve an aesthetically appealing look and can be adapted in numerous ways.
From the exterior appearance to interior details, there are numerous options available to create a home with the desired form and comfort. On our website, you can explore a variety of houses in different styles, both in the design phase and already completed in the Wolf Construct portfolio.
Myth of incompatibility with the surrounding environment
Another concern is related to the environmental impact. With recycling technologies and sustainable practices, metal-framed houses are eco-friendly. Steel recycling is efficient, and the natural qualities of this material make it an environmentally friendly choice in construction
In fact, steel holds excellent qualities regarding the circular economy. It is strong, durable, lightweight, structurally adaptable, recyclable, and reusable.
Its properties make light steel frame technology unique: strength, longevity, recyclability, availability, versatility, and accessibility. Manufactured from the most abundant element on Earth, steel can be endlessly recycled or reused without losing its properties. This unique characteristic gives steel superior value in all stages of its life cycle.
The steel recovery infrastructure is highly developed and extremely efficient, existing for decades. For instance, the current recovery rates from demolition sites in the UK are 99% for steel structures and 96% for all steel products used in construction - figures that far exceed those for any other construction material.
Conclusion
Consulting with construction experts is essential to obtain accurate information and make well-informed decisions regarding the construction of a steel frame home. Myths can create confusion and lead to overlooking the unique advantages that these types of houses can offer.
Bibliography
Zsolt, Nagy & Campian, Cristina & Pernes, Paul. (2015). Mituri si adevaruri despre casele cu structura metalica usoara.
Dubina, Dan & Fϋlöp, Ludovic & Aldea, Alexandru & Demetriu, S. & Zsolt, Nagy. (2006). Seimic performance of Cold-Formed Steel Framed Houses. Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Behaviour of Steel Structures in Seismic Areas - Stessa 2006.
LIGHT STEEL & CIRCULAR CONSTRUCTION Infinitely Recyclable Immeasurably Sustainable. LIGHT STEEL FRAME ASSOCIATION. VERSION 1 - JUNE 2023.
