The steel frame is a type of constructive system that has been gaining more and more space in the construction of residences, especially in sustainable homes. To learn more about this type of structure, Letícia Griep, executive director of Litcon Smart Buildings, talks about the origin of the material, its advantages and disadvantages and clarifies doubts on the subject. Check out:
What is steel frame?
According to Letícia Griep, the steel frame “is a constructive system made with galvanized steel profiles and closing with plates”. The professional explains that it is a type of construction considered dry and does not require the use of traditional materials such as bricks, cement or concrete.
Despite not yet dominating the civil construction scene in Brazil, she explains that the method originated in “the construction of American residences, in the early 19th century, in the United States. Initially, wooden profiles, known as wood frame, were used, but with the advancement of technology, they were replaced by steel profiles”.
How does steel frame work?
The steel frame can be used to create the structural panels of a home. Letícia Griep explains that first a foundation is made, which can be of the raft type, and then comes the positioning of the panels.
As it is an industrialized material, “galvanized steel profiles come ready-made or made to measure”, it is enough for the workforce to assemble them, he explains. As for the closing of the construction, the professional says that boards of different materials are used, such as OSB, drywall or cement boards.
Advantages and disadvantages of steel frame
As with all construction methods, Letícia Griep points out that the method has advantages and disadvantages. Analyze and compare their pros and cons:
Benefits
As it is a type of dry construction, the technique has several benefits when compared to other construction systems, such as masonry. The professional highlights the main ones:
- Lightness: Steel is a much lighter material when compared to traditional options such as reinforced concrete.
- Installation speed: Build in up to 1/3 the time and with greater accuracy than traditional construction methods.
- Sustainability: the use of steel frame avoids waste in the work, does not use water and practically does not generate debris. In addition, the materials used in this type of construction can be fully recycled.
- Execution accuracy: Galvanized steel profiles are industrialized products that have international certification and quality control.
- Thermoacoustic insulation: due to the insulation used between the panels, a work made of steel frame absorbs less heat than a masonry house and also has excellent acoustic insulation.
The advantages of using this system for construction are not limited to those mentioned by Letícia Griep. It is a technique that proves to be much faster and cleaner than other more common options in the country.
Disadvantages
Despite its numerous advantages, the professional informs that the system also has disadvantages. See below:
- Skilled labor: lack of skilled labor because it is a method that is still little used.
- Floor limitation: despite the agility in the construction, it has a limitation of floors, being indicated for buildings of up to 5 floors.
- Ignorance of the population: as it is not the most common construction method in the country, many people are unaware of the system or are afraid to invest in constructions made with steel frame.
- Payment: as it is a quick process, payment for construction is often made in shorter terms than other types, such as masonry.
- Quality control: It is important to make sure that the production of steel profiles follows the recommended standards and undergoes quality control during the manufacturing process.
Most of the disadvantages mentioned come up against the cultural barrier and the lack of knowledge about the constructive method. However, Letícia Griep points out that this technique “is gaining more space in the construction market, with specialist architects and builders”.
Questions about steel frame
As it is not yet a very common constructive system for Brazilians, most people have doubts about this technique. The professional also answers the main questions on the subject. Check out:
How much does the steel frame cost?
“The value of the m² varies a lot according to the region”, informs the professional. But she considers that, taking into account its advantages and the shorter execution time of the work, the cost-benefit is good. And she makes the following comparison: “A work in steel frame, in the medium standard, costs around R$ 1600 / m² finished. The same medium standard construction, in conventional masonry, would cost around R$ 1800 to R$ 2000 per square meter without finishing”.
What is the difference between drywall and steel frame?
“The steel frame has a structural function, since it is designed to receive the loads of the building, while drywall is used internally as a partition or wall, to separate environments, and has no structural function”, he explains.
Can steel frame be used in wet areas?
“Yes, there are suitable and resistant materials that can be applied on the floor and in wet areas such as the kitchen and bathroom”. Letícia Griep says that “the application and the types of plates will be indicated in the project”. In addition, galvanized steel profiles can also be used in the construction of beach houses or places with a lot of rain.
How long does a steel frame house last?
“Depending on the quality of execution and the materials used, the useful life of a steel frame construction can last many years”, he replies. For this, the specialist’s recommendation is to keep an eye on the certification of materials and the execution of all stages of the work. In addition to being essential to count on professionals and specialized labor.
20 steel frame photos to admire
This method is versatile and allows numerous possibilities in constructions. See projects that explore the best of the building system:
1. Steel frame construction is practical and sturdy
2. The galvanized steel profiles make up the structure of the building
3. And they give a tone of lightness to the internal spaces
4. Ensure a clean and fast work
5. The result is a practical and sustainable building
6. With good thermal and acoustic comfort
7. Steel frame house can be modern
8. And it has several advantages over other methods
9. External closing can be done with cement plates
10. The system brings several design possibilities
11. Can be mixed with other materials
12. Compose a charming cabin
13. Or build a beautiful country house
14. Profiles are completely hidden with closures
15. And they can even be used for the roof
16. Practicality to build the whole house
17. Including more than one floor
18. Enjoy all the advantages of steel frame
19. And bet on the versatility of this method
20. Economy with elegance for your work
The steel frame is a simple, resistant and efficient construction system for your work. With its use, it is possible to raise large buildings in a short period of time and ensure a clean and sustainable work. Take advantage of these ideas to invest in your new project.
Videos to understand the steel frame system
Increase your knowledge of this innovative building method with the videos below. Learn more about its origin, characteristics and execution:
Step by step of a steel frame work
Check out information about the execution of a steel frame work, from the foundation, through the fixing of the profiles, to the execution of the roof. See the main recommendations for each step, with the step-by-step guide to building with this method and taking advantage of its advantages. However, remember that this should only be done by skilled labor.
The best benefits for your work
The advantages of using the steel frame in a work outweigh its disadvantages. The video better analyzes the benefits of this method that guarantees a clean, fast, dry and sustainable work. In addition, it also considers lack of knowledge, prejudices about the system, costs and payment options.
Steel frame house construction process
See the complete assembly of a house made with the technique in just 60 days. In the video, follow the daily progress of the work and notice the cleanliness of the construction site, as well as the agility of this system. You will be surprised by the result!
Having knowledge about the types of construction system ensures that you make the best choice for your construction. In addition, it is important to have a specialized professional to help you in this process. Enjoy and learn about ecological tile options for your home.
