13 Apr Why Choose a Steel Frame Building Over a Timber Frame

Like the skeleton of a living being, a building’s framing holds everything together in place. Domestic and commercial buildings require a sturdy foundation and secure, accurately-sized frames to act as their skeletons. This building frame can be made from various materials; two of the most popular materials are timber and structural steel.

Timber frame and steel frame buildings both have their upsides and downsides. As to what we’d recommend here at Baker Steel Trading, hopefully, our name is indication enough. We specialise in steel fabrication and steel frame construction, and we’re here to tell you why you should choose structural steel sections over timber any day of the week.

Differences Between a Timber and Steel Frame Building

Firstly, let’s explore what makes timber and steel frame buildings different, other than the materials themselves. As structural steel fabricators, we’re not going to say that timber has no benefits whatsoever because it does. It’s only fair we present you with information to help you understand your options, the pros and cons of the materials and what to consider.

Timber frame prices can be impacted by choice of supplier, but it is quite readily available. Structural steel beams, columns and other sections are also readily available, thanks to innovative new ordering tools like Buy A Beam, which you can read about more here.

Generally speaking, steel frame construction is slightly more labour intensive, and you will need to bear this in mind. Steel fabricators like Baker Steel Trading can build onsite and offsite, depending on what the customer wants. Onsite construction was, up until recently, one of timber’s benefits, but this is possible with both materials depending on your supplier. 

People should consider energy efficiency, sustainability, longevity and maintenance efforts when choosing a suitable building material. Ultimately, while we’re biased here, steel support beams and framing structures offer far more practical advantages than timber.

8 Benefits of Choosing Steel Frame Buildings

Thanks to the advancements of technology and the rising demand for steel frame construction, many people recognise the advantages of steel framing.

1. Resistance
   Steel buildings have a higher threshold against degradation. Wood is prone to warping and termites, and the costs of treating timber frames are higher than treating steel (not that it’d need it). In case of extreme weather or fire, steel will remain sturdy; the same can’t be said for wood.
2. Energy efficiency
   Steel framing provides excellent heat retention – as does timber, to be fair – but many people recommend steel framing due to its ability at keeping buildings warm over a long time.
3. Sustainability
   As said earlier, steel is 100% recyclable, so it can be used repeatedly. When manufactured, steel produces far less waste, and it results in less deforestation. In contrast, timber is harvested from forests, which poses an environmental issue. Wood also has imperfections that make parts of timber beams unusable in some cases.
4. Cost-effectiveness
   Structural steel columns and beams might be more expensive than wooden beams at face value. But when you factor in the installation costs, ongoing maintenance, longevity, labour, landfill fees, how much are you saving with timber? Steel fabrication companies like Baker Steel Trading take great care to reduce waste, recycle and deliver results that meet customer expectations without pushing them over budget.
5. Lightweight
   This may surprise you, but structural steel’s weight is lighter overall compared to timber. This is primarily attributed to the frame design, and lighter universal beams (I beams) make for a more straightforward construction process.
6. Aesthetics
   Thanks to the incredible technology at our fingertips, not only is ordering steel online possible, but people can come up with numerous intricate, detailed, unique designs. Architects and designers can visualise structures, and thanks to 3D steel fabrication drawings, our team can help make these open-plan, unique designs come to life with structural steel. This is more difficult and time-consuming with wood frames.
7. Versatility
   Structural steel frame buildings can be moulded into almost any shape, thanks to the versatile steel fabrication process. These buildings can be customised and personalised for greater functionality.
   
   
8. Construction times
   Thanks to delivery and on-site installation services from steel fabrication companies – again, like Baker Steel Trading – steel frame buildings can be set up and fully ready in good time.

Steel Frame Building Services

While timber serves an essential purpose in some construction projects, the adaptability, flexibility and resilience of steel just can’t be matched. 

While we recognise personal preference is everything these days and that it’s important to do your research, we want to lend a helping hand in helping you decide if you need further assistance. We are steel fabricators with a wealth of construction experience, and only supply approved, CE-marked steel, so you know you’re getting the best products.