5 Considerations of Steel Frame Construction

There’s an old saying “You can have a job done quick, or done well – but not both”. 

At Cortek, we know for a fact that we can help you achieve both. The frame of a build is known as the foundation for a reason – it’s essential to ensure safety, security, sustainability and of course – longevity.

If you’re wondering how steel frame construction compares to another common material (i.e timber), and questioning which material is right for your next project, you can discover how they both hold up across a number of important factors to consider below:

Reputation:

Wood is tried and tested, but steel frame construction has quickly developed a reliable and unwavering reputation when matched with the right design and supplier like Cortek, where we have over 18 years experience in light gauge steel prefabrication.

Time & Cost Efficiency:

• Both steel and wood are durable options, however – wood is more malleable and can bend or warp with time, meaning steel is a much better material choice for longevity.
• Steel can be cut within millimetres of precision and is significantly lighter, which takes less time to install on-site, whereas working with a wood framework is much more labour-intensive. A recent project for Warrigal Road Day Care Centre that featured Cortek steel was able to complete installation a full two months ahead of schedule due to the efficiency of steel framing. 
• Framing with steel also allows for a greater capacity to resolve any potential unexpected issues during complex design projects, like that of The Granton, as it allows the team to visualise the framing system in 3D form in real-time. This is also crucial for projects where there is a strict opening schedule, such as the recently completed Wollert East Primary School & Community Centre. 
• Steel is also lower maintenance, in the sense that it does not require special treatments like wood does (steel is naturally termite proof, mould and rust resistant), which reduces a project’s time frame from start to finish.
• Bear in mind: while wood often costs less upfront on average, steel offers greater lifetime build value making it a highly efficient choice for construction projects.

Weather Resistance: 

In Australia, the weather is an important consideration in any build – and also plays a part in material choice.

• Steel frame construction is non-combustible, which is a big risk associated with wood, especially in certain areas of Australia. For our recent project, Autumn Aged Care’s latest facility, Sky Lodge Frankston, the weather-resistant nature of steel was a key factor in the decision to use steel over traditional timber framing given the project’s coastal location. 
• Steel also comes out in front when it comes to wind ratings – which is especially important for Northern Australian builds!

Strength:

Steel has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any commonly utilised building material, so it can support a heavier load with less material, meaning it really does stand up to the ultimate build test of time.

As you can imagine, this also makes it ideal for structural framework in a range of applications – from residential to retail, aged care to schools. The strength of building with steel framing also means that there is no need to straighten the frame or wall once installed, contributing to the overall speed of a Cortek build.

Steel framing allows for some of the most creative, flexible and versatile designs and uses – all of which we’re proud to offer to our clients. Explore our recent projects to discover why so many builders and developers are choosing to build with Cortek.

We hope the above helps you make the most informed material decision for your next construction project.

If you’d like to learn more or discuss your specific build in more detail, the experienced team at Cortek Framing are here to help.

Simply call us on 1300 782 950, or email us at sales@cortekframing.com.au