What Is The Cost Of Using Steel Framing House?

Suppose you're about to start building your dream new home, renovating or commencing another building project. In that case, the decisions you make at the beginning of the build will have short and long-term budget effects.

One of these decisions is what material to use for the house framing, roof trusses and flooring system.

The two most popular house framing options in Australia are steel and timber. Generally, a timber frame is cheaper than a steel frame, but there can be exceptions, depending on the project. Cost shouldn't be the only factor that informs your decision. However, it's still essential, particularly if you're on a tight budget. It would help if you also considered the long-term cost of steel frame vs timber in terms of maintenance and energy efficiency.

If you need to familiarise yourself with the pros and cons of both framing options, read this guide, Timber Frames Vs Steel Frames - What Is The Best Option? to see how they compare and decide which is suitable for your project.

So, after READING that, let's get down to the main costing factors that impact house framing!

How much does a steel house frame cost?

Depending on your location and other considerations, the average cost of a steel house frame in Australia ranges from $1,300 to $2,000 per square metre. Typically a steel frame will cost an extra 10% to 20% over a timber frame due to higher manufacturing and production costs.

Steel frames are still a fairly affordable building material, with many post-building cost benefits, such as; its durability, maintenance free, fire resistance and pest resistance.

Read this guide, Timber Frames Vs Steel Frames - What Is The Best Option? for a complete list of the benefits of Steel Framing.

Note that this article's costs and prices are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.

How much does a timber house frame cost?

A timber house frame can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $1,680 per square metre, depending on where you live in Australia or $1,480 per m2 on average.

Choosing a timber frame could save 10% to 20% on your building cost compared to installing a steel frame. You could also save energy in the long term, as timber is more energy efficient. Timber is also a readily available, renewable resource (relatively) that is easy to use. However, timber frames are typically more labour-intensive to install and require higher ongoing maintenance.

So now that you know the rough pricing for both options and a cursory overview of the pros and cons, you're no doubt asking yourself: Should I choose a timber or steel frame?

Comparing the pros and cons of a timber vs steel frame house can give you some idea of which framing option is better. Still, you should think carefully about the best fit for your needs and budget. Ask yourself the following questions and consult local builders to make an informed decision you won't regret.

What is my budget?

The upfront cost of steel framing vs wood is often the clinching factor for many a home builder, but costing framing is more complex than it may first appear.

Timber frames are generally cheaper than steel frames, but their cost can increase if you need a lot of custom work done on-site.

While carpenter and builder rates may be cheaper for timber than steel, timber frames also generally take longer to build. Considering the long-term costs, steel frames are lower maintenance and last longer. Still, they are also less energy efficient, which can require extra insulation.

Which suits my design?

Both timber and steel frames can create a wide variety of designs, but steel is more versatile.

Steel can be powder coated in various colours, and steel frame components can be custom engineered to meet your aesthetic preferences and architectural requirements.

Timber frames may be more limited, but if you prefer the natural look, different varieties of timber can give different colours and textures.

Which is more sustainable?

Suppose you're concerned about minimising the environmental impact of your construction project or want an energy-efficient home to lower your energy bills in the long term. In that case, both steel and timber frames can be good options, depending on the source.

Steel frames made from Truecore are 100% recyclable, and steel frame kits are efficiently designed to minimise waste materials. Steel does not need chemical treatments to resist pests and other hazards like timber.

Timber is also a better insulator, but steel frame homes can be well insulated when tightly sealed. Timber frames can be sourced from sustainable plantations.

However, according to the NSW EPA, Treated timber contains toxic chemicals (copper chrome arsenic (CCA)) that harm the environment, your health and your children's health. It should be safely disposed of and never burnt or buried.

Which is suitable for my climate?

Timber frames won't be an option if you live in an area at risk of bushfires. They are also vulnerable to rot and mould in wet climates, so they must be appropriately treated and sealed against moisture.

If you live in a bushfire-prone area, it's worth reading our article: Building A Home In Bushfire Prone Area?.

Steel frames are suitable for a broader range of conditions, including bushfires and cyclone areas. Steel frames are not usually prone to rust, as they are galvanised during manufacturing. However, if they are scratched after manufacture, corrosion is possible – particularly in coastal areas with higher salt content in the air.

Which will last for longer?

Steel frames have greater longevity than timber, which can justify its higher cost and make it a good investment in your property.

Many steel frame suppliers offer 50-year or even lifetime warranties on their products. In contrast, timber frames are generally covered by 10 to 40 years warranties.

Steel frames are naturally resistant to termites and other pests, fire, wind, and other environmental dangers. Timber frames require regular treatment to protect against most of these hazards.

Summary

By the time you also factor in the money saved on installing, maintaining and termite-proofing a timber frame (which could be thousands of dollars), as well as potential savings on your home insurance premium from having a moisture and termite-proof structure, steel frame homes prices are considerably lower and can save you money!

If you’re considering building and need advice on the most suitable framing system for your project, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

How Much Do Steel House Frames Cost?