As we wait for the outcome of the recent Government consultation on the ban of the use of combustible materials in and on external walls of buildings, the Offsite Hub Blog sat down with members of the Light Steel Frame Association (LSFA) to discuss how they are experiencing unprecedented demand.
The advantages that light steel framing systems (SFS) provide the construction sector have long been recognised by designers and specifiers. The versatility of steel offers architects the freedom to achieve their most ambitious visions. Building owners value its adaptability and the benefits that steel framing solutions provide, such as the light open and airy spaces which are ideal for reconfiguring or extending with minimal disruption if requirements change.
The response of steel structures to fire is well understood, and extensive best-practice guidance is available. The performance of steel components and structures in fire scenarios has been researched more extensively than any other building material. The steel sector has invested decades of research into understanding the behaviour of structural steel components – giving designers the confidence to engineer buildings safely.
The manufacture of individual steel elements takes place offsite under controlled, highly regulated, and safe factory conditions where the use of cutting-edge fabrication systems delivers precision-engineered components. LSFA members are now innovating at pace – developing ‘complete walling and flooring’ solutions. By taking a panelised system approach the factory fabrication process is extended to include insulation and A1 non-combustible fire-resistant sheathing boards. A system approach achieves high dimensional accuracy and long-term reliability together with delivering predictability of performance and programme.
Steel offers consistently high-quality standards, precision products and guaranteed strength and durability in the most challenging of environments. For those looking for quality assurance, steel framing systems deliver complete certainty. Rigorous quality assurance processes give full traceability at all stages in the supply chain, from steelmaking through to fabrication and installation on site. All structural steel used by LSFA members is CE Marked, providing assurance that the material is compliant with the Construction Products Regulation.
Driving Collaboration and Growth in the Light Steel Framing Sector
Established to influence legislation, regulation and to support the overall objectives and growth of the sector, the Light Steel Frame Association is raising awareness of the performance and productivity benefits of steel framing systems. The light steel frame industry is more agile, advanced and digitally savvy than its competitors in other offsite material sectors.
As an advanced non-combustible solution, high-performance steel framing systems are perfectly positioned to meet construction industry demands. Steel is a robust, rigid and dimensionally stable material that does not suffer from shrinkage, warping, movement or moisture related issues. Steel systems offer significant improvements in design capability and as an offsite manufactured solution, deliver both cost and programme certainty.
Interested to find out more about the benefits of steel?
The LSFA is the representative body for light steel frame manufacturers, fabricators, structural building contractors and supply chain members including erectors, installers, designers, structural engineers, and consultants. The Association works with members to raise awareness of the performance, productivity, and sustainability benefits of steel.
As the construction industry looks to raise the bar to meet the proposed new Building Regulations banning the use of combustible materials, the light steel frame industry is witnessing unparalleled demand for panelised and volumetric modular systems, together with ‘through the wall’ solutions which are delivered to site complete with wall linings and sheathing boards.
For more information on the Light Steel Frame Association and their members go to: www.lsf-association.co.uk
Image credit: Sigmat
