In recent years we’ve seen huge growth in the number of reputable builders offering the option of steel framing to their customers. Indeed, we’re now seeing more and more builders who go one step further – no longer offering timber framing, instead making the switch to steel altogether. And yet there are still builders out there who do not give their customers the choice of choosing steel when it comes to framing choices. Let’s look at some of the misconceptions around switching to steel to which builders or trades may subscribe – despite feeling the ripples of this wave of industry change.
“Steel frames aren’t as strong, safe, or easy to install as timber.”
It’s understandable that some builders carry with them outdated impressions or ideas around steel framing systems. In fact, cold-formed steel framing technology has evolved at such an impressive rate over the 50 plus years it has been part of the Australian building industry. It is therefore not surprising that trades who may have had a limited experience with steel many years ago (and who have not had much to do with it since) are somewhat in the dark about just how seamless, efficient and quick it can be to build with steel framing systems.
“We’ve tried doing steel frames before, it wasn’t good.”
If you have a bad experience at a restaurant you’re trying for the first time, you may not be likely to go back for another chance – regardless of how many people are raving about it. The same can be said about just about anything, including working with steel framing systems. Time and time again, we’ve experienced our partners’ pleasant surprise and relief at just how easy and even enjoyable it can be to work with steel framing systems. After having poor experiences with other suppliers in the past (and sometimes in the more distant past as well, when the technology wasn’t what it is today) some of our partners were hesitant or even downright resistant to offering steel framing as an option – but as the demand increases amongst more educated and savvy customers, they have relented and (at least in our experience) been glad for the nudge.
“Transitioning to steel framing is too complex, costly and time consuming.”
Again, this common misconception has usually grown from outdated knowledge or previous poor experiences. However, AusSteel has had the pleasure of equipping many new partners with the support, expertise and tools to onboard and implement this positive change in their business – whether it be to offering steel as an option alongside timber framing or making the switch to steel altogether. With the right support provided to our partners’ management, on-site trades and sales staff, the transition is made with little to no cost to builders.
As you can see, there are many reasons why builders may be hesitant to offer (or make the switch to) steel, largely based on some common misconceptions. Join us for part two of ‘Common trade misconceptions’ to learn more.
Want to know a little more about why trades love working with AusSteel? Head to our recent blog post or get in touch today for a chat and a tour of one of our factories. AusSteel has facilities in Cameron Park (Newcastle – Northern NSW), Goulburn (Southern Tablelands of NSW), and Crestmead (Brisbane, QLD). We’d love to hear from you.
