Steel framing is a construction technique using steel supports to form the basic shape of a building. It provides superior strength, uniform walls, and is not susceptible to mold or rot. However, it is more expensive and requires experienced installers. Steel beams should be protected from fire.
Steel framing is a construction technique that uses steel supports to form the basic shape, or “skeleton” of a building. The steel frame provides structural support for other building elements, including siding, roof, floors, walls, and occupants. Steel framing is an alternative to other construction methods, including wood framing and modular construction.
A steel frame is made up of vertical members, known as columns, as well as horizontal members or beams. Both columns and beams are typically made of I-beams, which are steel beams in the shape of a capital letter “I. The two shorter lengths of the I-beam are known as the flanges, while the longer section is called the web. The shape of an I-beam provides superior strength and structural support for the rest of the building.
The columns and beams used in steel structures are arranged in a grid pattern, with steel plates used to create floors and attics. Building components that are not exposed to high loads can be formed from steel channels, pipes, or tubes that weigh less than I-beams. Because of their high strength-to-weight ratio, steel joists, or trusses, are often used to construct roof supports. These items are joined together using bolts, rivets or welding techniques to ensure a strong connection.
When steel framing is used to construct the interior walls of a building, it is often referred to as narrow gauge framing. In narrow-gauge frames, thin sheets of steel are formed into pins or channels. Channels are placed along the floor and ceiling and are used to hold the studs in place. The steel studs are typically placed 16 inches (40.6 cm) on center and are covered with drywall sheets to form the walls and rooms of the building.
Steel framing has several advantages over other construction techniques. First, it offers superior strength for its weight, which allows you to safely construct very tall or complex buildings. Because steel is machine made, it offers a texture that cannot be found with wood frame buildings. This often results in smoother, more uniform walls as well as less structural sagging. Finally, steel structure is not susceptible to the mold, rot and insect problems that plague wood frame buildings.
Despite its many advantages, the steel frame also has its drawbacks. It is typically much more expensive than modular or wood structures and requires more experienced installers. Even steel-framed buildings can suffer catastrophic damage from a fire. To minimize the risk of failure due to heat or fire, steel beams should be protected by a more fire resistant material. Many steel components are sprayed with non-combustible foam, encased in concrete, or surrounded by fireproof sheetrock.
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