Cold-formed steel framing in off-site construction

Wood, concrete and steel are common construction materials. Cold-formed steel (CFS) is used in light gauge framing, including factory-built panels.

Lightweight CFS components can reduce transport loads. They can be taken apart for reuse or recycled at the end of a building's life.

Steel can be recycled without losing its properties. One comparison puts the framing for a 2,000-square-foot home at 40 to 50 trees in wood, or roughly the recycled steel from four cars in CFS.

Lightweight framing can reduce loads on foundations. In off-site construction, lighter panels can also allow more components per truck, reducing transport costs and emissions. A building's mass is one factor in its seismic design.

Why builders are switching

• Durable. A galvanized coating resists moisture and humidity.
• Non-combustible. CFS does not add fuel to a fire. Many cities have started updating their building codes to reflect the distinction between combustible and non-combustible construction.
• Insurance considerations. Insurance premiums depend on the building and the insurer. Discuss the proposed construction with your insurer.
• Easy to source. Steel framing is available from many roll-forming manufacturers.

Steel framing is non-combustible and is not damaged by pests. These properties can reduce some maintenance needs.

EBS Global manufactures prefabricated cold-formed steel panel systems.