Steel frame, also known as steel framing, is a construction system based on a load-bearing steel structure.

The terms steel frame and light steel frame or light steel framing are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences, as reflected in their names. Light steel frame/framing (LSF) uses cold-formed, lightweight steel profiles that are thinner and lighter compared to traditional steel. These profiles are often zinc-plated to prevent corrosion and are assembled using dry methods, enabling faster, cleaner construction.

Light steel framing is particularly suited for multi-storey residential or commercial buildings, as well as projects requiring rapid and efficient construction.

The key features of light steel framing or steel framing can be summarised as follows:

reduced weight: light steel frame structures are lighter; transport and installation are easier.

lower impact on foundations: the light weight places less strain on the load-bearing structure compared to a traditional steel building.

suitability for small- to medium-sized buildings: the system is ideal for prefabricated homes and modular constructions.

The steel framing market

The global market for steel structures was valued at $36.05 billion in 2022 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% from 2023 to 2030*, driven by rising demand in both developed and emerging economies.

Rapid urbanisation in regions such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America is driving increased demand for steel structures, fuelled by infrastructural development and the need for fast, efficient construction solutions.

*Source: https://www.infinitivedataexpert.com/it/industry-report/light-gauge-steel-framing-market

Steel frame prefabrication

One of the key advantages of steel frame construction is the possibility to prefabricate a substantial portion of the structure at the factory, significantly reducing on-site construction times and costs. The steel frame prefabrication process involves the production and cutting of zinc-plated steel profiles using computer numerical control (CNC) machinery. This ensures millimetre precision and minimises material waste.

The industrialisation of processes and construction solutions is the underlying principle of off-site construction, given that part of the work takes place in a factory, thus shortening on-site assembly and installation times.

Prefabricated timber homes and steel homes

The similarities between timber and steel construction techniques go beyond prefabrication – another key common feature is that the frame is not delivered on-site as an empty shell. In timber frame construction, but also in projects using solid timber, prefabricated modules often arrive on-site with pre-installed walls ready for service connections, along with pre-applied waterproofing membranes, either adhesive or mechanically fastened.

In steel frame construction, the prefabricated structural panels consist of a lightweight zinc-plated steel framework, made with profiles assembled to form load-bearing walls, floors and roofs. Depending on the project, these panels can be left bare (only the load-bearing steel structure) or integrated with additional layers, such as:

thermal and acoustic insulation (rock wool, polyurethane, EPS)

interior and exterior cladding (plasterboard, plaster fibre, timber or fibre-reinforced cement panels)

vapour barriers and waterproof membranes

Modular prefabrication helps reduce on-site assembly time, while also improving the thermal and acoustic performance of the structure – one of the main challenges of steel framing – ultimately increasing the overall efficiency of the building.

Pros and cons of steel homes

Despite its many advantages, steel frame construction comes with certain challenges that should be carefully considered before selecting it as a building solution.

Advantages of steel homes

Fast construction thanks to prefabrication

Resistance to earthquakes and fire

Lightweight and versatile structures

Disadvantages of steel homes

Thermal bridging. Steel is an excellent conductor of heat, and without proper thermal insulation, steel frame structures can be less energy-efficient compared to other materials.

Acoustic performance: compared to timber, steel structures transmit vibrations more easily, requiring specialised solutions to improve sound insulation.

Corrosion and maintenance: although zinc-plated steel offers good protection against rust, long-term corrosion can still be a concern in particularly humid or saline environments.

High initial cost: the initial cost of steel frame construction tends to be higher than timber or masonry, though lower maintenance costs can offset this over time.

Shortage of specialised labour: in some areas – particularly developing regions – builders may not yet be fully trained in steel frame structures, thus increasing the risk of assembly errors.

Timber frame vs light steel frame

Timber Frame

Weight: Light
Fire resistance: Mediocre
Resistance to earthquakes: High
Thermal insulation: Excellent
Environmental impact: Low
Duration over time: Medium
Construction time: Fast

Light Steel Frame

Weight: Average
Fire resistance: High
Resistance to earthquakes: High
Thermal insulation: Poor
Environmental impact: Low
Duration over time: High
Construction time: Very fast

Timber vs steel

Timber

Sustainability: A natural and renewable material, but requires responsible forest management.
Structural strength: Good strength but may deform over time.
Duration over time: Susceptible to moisture, mould and pests; requires protective treatments.
Weight and transportability: Lightweight and easy to transport and work with on-site.
Thermal insulation: Naturally high insulating properties.
Soundproofing: Good capacity to absorb noise, though specific solutions may be needed for sound propagation.
Fire resistance: Can burn, but with predictable combustion (large sections offer prolonged resistance).
Construction speed: Rapid assembly due to prefabrication and ease of handling.
Construction costs: Generally less expensive, though costs may vary depending on timber quality and necessary treatments.
Adaptability and design: Ideal for traditional buildings and bio-construction.

Steel

Sustainability: 100% recyclable, but with a highly energy-intensive production process.
Structural strength: High strength, dimensional stability and durability.
Duration over time: Does not rot and has a long lifespan with minimal maintenance.
Weight and transportability: Comparable to timber in weight and in any case lighter than concrete and masonry.
Thermal insulation: Requires additional insulating materials to prevent thermal bridging.
Soundproofing: May require specialised solutions to reduce sound propagation.
Fire resistance: Does not burn but loses structural strength at high temperatures.
Construction speed: Rapid assembly due to prefabrication and modularity of elements.
Construction costs: Slightly higher initial costs, but lower long-term maintenance expenses.
Adaptability and design: Greater design flexibility due to its high structural strength.

With a view to improvement and the growing likelihood that hybrid construction will become the leading building method in the years to come, timber and steel should be combined to create high-performance buildings. Timber and steel homes combine the strength of steel with the insulating properties of timber, ensuring high energy efficiency and more sustainable construction. In particular, prefabricated steel structures integrated with timber elements improve living comfort and help reduce thermal bridging.

Products designed to protect timber structures are also well-suited for maintaining steel structures – in particular, self-adhesive membranes, sealing and waterproofing tapes and soundproofing layers.

Where else is steel frame used?

Steel framing is increasingly being adopted in ventilated façades, overcladding and recladding, too, where lightweight construction, strength and rapid installation are essential.

The use of steel and aluminium cladding for façades, combined with advanced fastening systems and airtight, wind-resistant and waterproofing solutions, enhances the thermal and acoustic performance of steel frame structures.

Building safety is also addressed through special façade maintenance solutions, such as fall protection devices that facilitate cleaning and inspection.

Another critical aspect is fire risk prevention: the chimney effect typical of ventilated façades can be mitigated with fire-resistant membranes and compartmentalisation systems that help prevent the spread of flames. These technologies enable the construction of safe, high-performance building envelopes that comply with the latest regulations.

Solutions for protecting steel structures

Steel framing is fast establishing itself as a versatile and efficient construction technology, widely used not only for new buildings but also for recladding and ventilated façades. With its prefabrication benefits, rapid assembly and structural strength, it serves as a strategic solution for professionals in the construction sector.

Like any construction system, steel framing has its challenges, but these can be addressed by integrating products and technologies capable of enhancing long-term durability, energy efficiency and fire safety, such as fire-resistant membranes, advanced cladding systems and façade safety devices.

Improve the performance of steel-framed buildings with Rothoblaas solutions. Download the brochure to explore the range of products designed to protect and optimise steel structures and façades.

DOWNLOAD

What is steel frame? Steel frame, steel framing and light steel frame: definition and differences