STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION SMART GUIDE
STEEL FRAMING IS STRONG, DURABLE AND COST-COMPETITIVE KEY FEATURES OF STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION There are two main types of steel frame construction – heavy and light steel frame (LSF) construction. Heavy steel construction involves a structural skeleton of large steel members. Steel beams can support long spans (eg for large windows or openings), and are often used in combination with other structural systems, like timber or LSF construction for this purpose. LSF construction can either be used as a complete construction system, including exterior walls and roof framing, or it can be used for interior partitions only. Steel is strong both in tension and compression. LSF construction is comparable in price to timber construction. LSF construction may be suitable for steeply sloping sites where heavyweight construction could require excavation and extensive foundations. Steel is easy to handle and can be erected quickly. They are often delivered pre-fabricated to site, and clearly identi...