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Traditional Frame Vs. Steel Frame: Which One To Choose?

The traditional frame and the metal frame are two very different supports. Indeed, the traditional frame is the most common of all frames, with wood as the main material. Each type of frame differs in design and installation, although this is not apparent in the final result.

However, it is important to choose the type of frame you will use for your future project, in order to guarantee its strength and robustness. There is a major difference between traditional and metal framing, and most of us are obvious of this. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the things you need to know about frames.

Brief description of the traditional frame

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Traditional framing is the most common type of framing found in older homes, as well as in any type of house. By leaving it exposed, it can give an unparalleled cachet to your home because it is very aesthetic. Moreover, wood is a material that gives a lot of charm, but requires compliance with the standards in force indicated in the Unified Technical Documents (DTU).

Generally, the traditional framework is made to measure by a professional, and the roofing and the framework to be up to your expectations and your needs. This type of framework is composed of several elements, including a supporting structure, also called a “truss”, purlins, rafters, battens and battens.

The main advantages and disadvantages of the traditional frame

The traditional wood frame is a classic model that can be adapted to any type of house and roof shape, whether traditional or contemporary. Moreover, it is certain and not negligible that wood is a noble and very resistant material. In addition, a traditional roof structure also allows you to optimize your attic space by losing as little space as possible during your renovation work.

However, in spite of all these advantages, the traditional wood frame, unfortunately, has some disadvantages. Indeed, wood requires regular maintenance with the use of chemical products against harmful insects and moulds. Moreover, wood being a noble material, also presents a rather high price, unlike other types of frameworks.

What is a metal frame?

As its name indicates, a steel frame is a steel structure. It is generally composed of elements that are machined in a workshop and then assembled on-site. Indeed, even if it is a more economical alternative to the traditional frame, its design requires a certain number of technical skills. This is why this type of structure was once reserved for industrial sites and large buildings.

However, today, steel framing is increasingly used in the construction of single-family homes, and entire buildings made of steel frames.

Advantages and disadvantages of steel framing

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The metal frame has countless advantages, among which we can cite:

    • Its fast implementation and installation: the production of the main elements in the factory allows a considerable saving of time on the assembly of the steel frame on the construction site
    • Its ease of assembly in kit form: however, it is reserved for small jobs, given the weight of the metal structure, which may require the use of a hoisting machine
    • Very economical: it allows a gain of about 10% on the financial cost of a traditional frame
    • Almost no maintenance costs
    • Its robustness and durability over time
    • It can be ecological, because it does not require regular maintenance with fungicide.

Despite this, the metal frame has a major disadvantage with its low resistance to fire. Indeed, in case of exposure to high temperatures, the structure can be deformed, thus requiring a fireproofing treatment.

Sound off in the comments section below, and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about metal frames.

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