24 May Comparing Light Gauge and Structural Steel

Here at Baker Steel Trading, we’re big fans of the many different types of steel that exist. Amongst these are metals with various traits, advantages and aesthetics, meaning that a large part of maximising the success of the steel items you use is down to the type you choose. The best way to make this decision is to think about the specific needs you have and which traits are, therefore, most important.

If you’re working on a construction site, one of the most vital aspects is the building’s steel frame, which is crucial to maintaining the stability of the structure. In this case, most projects use one of two options: light gauge steel and structural steel.

The structural steel fabricators working at Baker Steel Trading recommend the latter option because of the added advantages it can offer, but we want to compare both steel grades for your benefit.

Introducing Light Gauge Steel

Light gauge steel is created using a steel fabrication process called cold-forming, which means that steel sheets are guided through a series of rollers to create C or Z patterns as required. Once this process is complete, light gauge steel can support heavy loads and is usually galvanised to prevent rust from affecting the stability of the metal.

Advantages of Light Gauge Steel

• Light gauge steel is popular in load-bearing walls and interior rooms, cutting down on the number of studs required to frame a wall. This results in minimal cutting and sizing being needed on the job site, ultimately leading to faster construction. 
• Steel frames produce far less waste than alternative materials, lowering the cost of debris removal. Furthermore, because it is sent to recycling facilities, the created waste can lead to additional income that can offset project costs. 
• Light gauge steel is also highly durable and won’t rot, split, warp, shrink, twist, burn or be damaged by termites.

Disadvantages of Using Light Gauge Steel

Whilst this metal doesn’t burn, it can lose its strength in a fire, so all available cladding must be completed with Class A fire-rated materials. It’s also important to note that higher insulation levels are required, along with the recommended use of thicker soundproofing materials within the design of your steel frame building.

Common Uses of Light Gauge Steel

If you’re working on a residential or light commercial structure, cold-formed steel can be used instead of timber, offering excellent structural stability and durability whilst reducing material costs. When light gauge steel is used, a load-bearing wall will typically be constructed first, followed by interior partitions and exterior cladding.

What is Structural Steel?

The structural steel fabricators working at Baker Steel Trading commonly use this material to create high-quality steel-framed structures for our customers. These products are hot-rolled to develop a hardened material that is incredibly strong, resulting in structural steel beams and products that can withstand moderate seismic activity, heavy traffic loads and high winds.

Advantages of Structural Steel

• Structural steel is widely used in the construction industry because of its incredible strength and flexibility, enabling longer metal spans to be used without weakening the structure.
• Structural steel can also flex without breaking during high-pressure events, such as moderate seismic events, heavy traffic loads and high winds.
• With the right technology, structural steel can be used to build in almost any location, including at great heights or over water.

Disadvantages of Using Structural Steel

The strength of structural steel means that it’s a heavy material. Therefore, any steel building project planning to use it needs access to heavy trucks or trains for delivery and cranes for placement, resulting in additional project costs. Although the benefits of using structural steel make up for this, you should assess your budget and speak to your chosen fabrication company before purchasing structural steel.

How is Structural Steel Commonly Used?

The weight and advantages of structural steel mean that this type of steel is most commonly used on large-scale custom steel fabrication projects, including multi-storey buildings, bridges and industrial plants. In these areas, structural steel beams and frames are the safest and most reliable option that you can use.

How to Choose the Best Steel Option for You

Both structural and light gauge steel framing make for excellent choices in various construction designs. The ultimate decision as to which option you order from local steel fabrication companies should come down to the specific nature of your project.

If you decide to use structural steel, the experienced and friendly steel beam suppliers at Baker Steel Trading are happy to help. We regularly supply and manufacture a wide range of high-quality fabricated steel for use in the building industry and can help maximise the potential of your next project. If you’re interested in learning more about our steel fabrication services, get in contact today.