BUILDING A HOUSE: WHAT KIND OF FRAME SHOULD YOU USE?
Building your own home is a fulfilling endeavor. You get to decide what your dream house will look like inside and out, and the type of materials – and features – that you want in it. In Part 1 of this Designing A Home series on framing a timber frame, we looked at the basics of building with timber frame- from its environmental benefits to the various types that are available.
Steel Frame
There are three main types of framing materials used in residential construction: wood, steel, and concrete. Each has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks that need to be considered when deciding which one is right for your project.
Steel framing is one of the most popular choices for modern construction due to its strength, durability, and fire-resistant properties. It’s also relatively easy to work with, making it a good choice for do-it-yourselves or first-time builders. However, steel can be expensive and is susceptible to corrosion if not properly protected.
Concrete is another strong option for framing a house. It’s extremely durable and resistant to fire, pests, and rot. Concrete can also be used to create walls that have high thermal resistance, making your home more energy efficient. The downside of concrete is that it’s heavy and difficult to work with, so it’s important to have experience before attempting a DIY project.
Timber Frame
A timber frame is one of the most popular options for framing a house. Timber framing is a traditional method of construction that uses heavy timbers to create a strong frame for the house. Timber frames are usually made from softwood trees, such as pine or fir. The timbers are cut to size and then joined together with mortise and Tenon joints.
Timber frames are very strong and durable, and they can last for centuries if properly maintained. However, they are also more expensive than other types of framing, such as stick-built or balloon framing.
Differences and Similarities
When it comes to framing a house, there are two main choices: wood and steel. Here are the key differences and similarities between the two:
Wood is the traditional choice for framing a house. It’s affordable and easy to work with, making it a good choice for DIYers. However, wood is subject to rot and insect damage, so it requires regular maintenance.
Steel is becoming increasingly popular as a framing material due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. Steel frames are also easier to work with than wood, making them a good choice for those without much experience. However, steel frames can be more expensive than wood.
Which Would You Choose?
There are three primary types of house frames: stick-built, panelized, and modular. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so the best frame for your home depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Stick-built frames are the most traditional option. They’re constructed entirely on-site, which gives you more control over the process and allows for more customized designs. However, stick-built frames can be more expensive and time-consuming to build than other options.
Panelised frames are pre-assembled in a factory before being delivered to the job site. This can speed up construction time and save money, but it can also limit your design options somewhat.
Modular frames are similar to panelised frames, but they’re built in sections that are then assembled on-site. This offers the best of both worlds: the reduced construction time and cost of panelised frames, with the greater design flexibility of stick-built frames.
