How custom steel framed homes are more sustainable than timber
We are builders of sustainable custom steel framed homes which make them stronger than timber framed homes. Custom steel framed houses are termite proof, bushfire resistant and are more sustainable in high wind areas. Bushfire and termite protection is paramount in Victorian rural areas, especially bushfire threats. You need builders who can provide proof of these attributes. JG King are such builders.
Read More
When you look at steel framing, there’s no doubt that it provides better overall performance to timber frames. Let’s compare the two products on their environmental credentials and performance.
Environmental credentials
Steel is 100% recyclable. In fact 75 – 85% of steel used in building construction is ultimately recycled which means it doesn’t take up landfill space.
Recycling timber is less common as it is both inefficient and labour-intensive. The adhesives used when building with timber further complicate the recycling process. And the chemicals used to treat timber require careful disposal and limit the ability to recycle or reuse these materials. Steel is not chemically treated.
Timber frames feature less embodied energy which means they use less energy in production from raw materials. However, when you consider that less steel is required to construct a new home and because steel doesn’t take up landfill, the margin of embodied energy is very narrow.
It’s also important to note that while young, growing trees use carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, the loss of native habitat, the use of pesticides and herbicides, and the downstream effects of planting introduced tree species on large tracts of land damage the environment.
Performance
Steel frames are not only more cost effective than timber but they are also stronger, lighter and longer lasting. Constructing with steel means builders use less framing materials plus there’s minimal on-site wastage requiring transport to recycling plants or landfill.
Steel frames are also more stable than timber so they retain their original dimensions. This is a major factor in maintaining effective, long-term sealing and ensures a better overall finish.
The strength of steel also reduces the threat of foundation problems and damage to the home during high winds. Additionally, steel frames will not contribute to a fire.
Importantly, steel frames provide excellent design flexibility permitting energy-efficient housing design and orientation which reduces total energy consumption through heating and cooling.
Additionally, elevated steel sub-floor systems enable fewer site disturbances when constructing on fragile sites. This minimises interference with natural contours to retain natural control of storm-water and reduces downstream sedimentation.
An elevated steel sub-floor system also acts as an excellent chemical-free first line of defence against termites. Toxic chemicals used to treat timber frames are potentially harmful to the environment and to people who come in contact with them. Termites don’t eat steel.
Environmental credentials
Steel is 100% recyclable. In fact 75 – 85% of steel used in building construction is ultimately recycled which means it doesn’t take up landfill space.
Recycling timber is less common as it is both inefficient and labour-intensive. The adhesives used when building with timber further complicate the recycling process. And the chemicals used to treat timber require careful disposal and limit the ability to recycle or reuse these materials. Steel is not chemically treated.
Timber frames feature less embodied energy which means they use less energy in production from raw materials. However, when you consider that less steel is required to construct a new home and because steel doesn’t take up landfill, the margin of embodied energy is very narrow.
It’s also important to note that while young, growing trees use carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, the loss of native habitat, the use of pesticides and herbicides, and the downstream effects of planting introduced tree species on large tracts of land damage the environment.
Performance
Steel frames are not only more cost effective than timber but they are also stronger, lighter and longer lasting. Constructing with steel means builders use less framing materials plus there’s minimal on-site wastage requiring transport to recycling plants or landfill.
Steel frames are also more stable than timber so they retain their original dimensions. This is a major factor in maintaining effective, long-term sealing and ensures a better overall finish.
The strength of steel also reduces the threat of foundation problems and damage to the home during high winds. Additionally, steel frames will not contribute to a fire.
Importantly, steel frames provide excellent design flexibility permitting energy-efficient housing design and orientation which reduces total energy consumption through heating and cooling.
Additionally, elevated steel sub-floor systems enable fewer site disturbances when constructing on fragile sites. This minimises interference with natural contours to retain natural control of storm-water and reduces downstream sedimentation.
An elevated steel sub-floor system also acts as an excellent chemical-free first line of defence against termites. Toxic chemicals used to treat timber frames are potentially harmful to the environment and to people who come in contact with them. Termites don’t eat steel.
