Cold-formed steel and sustainable building

Cold-formed steel (CFS) is shaped at room temperature by rolling, pressing and bending. The process makes the steel stronger and allows precise, intricate shapes.

What makes it sustainable

• Recyclable. It is often made with recycled steel content, which lowers the environmental impact of steel production and saves resources.
• Light and strong. It puts less load on foundations and supporting structure, with a lower risk of structural fatigue over time.
• Durable, low maintenance. It does not warp or shrink, and insects do not damage it.
• Corrosion resistant. Protective zinc or aluminum coatings hold up in harsh, high-moisture environments.
• Easy to shape. It forms readily into framing, roofing and wall systems, including complex architectural shapes.

Compared with wood or concrete, cold-formed steel is less prone to warping, shrinking and insect damage, so it lasts longer and needs less maintenance. Coated with zinc or aluminum, it suits places where moisture, chemicals or temperature swings would damage other materials.