LYSAGHT SUPRAFRAME® STEEL HOUSE FRAMING SYSTEM - OPEN STUD

While steel framing may have higher sound transmission characteristics than that of timber frames there will be no shrinkage or cracking noises due to frame settlement, so steel frames will not be any noisier than any other framing material.

Yes! The LYSAGHT SUPRAFRAME® and LYSAGHT SUPRATRUSS® framing systems have reduced material gauges which facilitate easy cutting using tin snips. The new connection systems allow quick and easy dis-assembly and reconstruction using nails or wafer screws.

Yes. Because of the unique assembly systems, additions are relatively simple to make. Furthermore, the original steel structure will be straight and true regardless of its age, making the job of matching up the addition easier.

Yes! Steel framing is used extensively in these areas because of its inherent strength. The BlueScope Lysaght Supraframe and Supratruss system can be adapted for cyclonic applications if required.

Yes! Steel frames are safe because the frames are earthed and when exposed to a live wire it will create a short and trip the residual current safety switch therefore there is little chance of touching anything active. All new housing is required to be fitted with residual current safety switches. However, a broken or pierced wire in a timber frame can remain live and current leakage can cause troublesome faults and fire risks.

No! The move to lighter gauge materials and boxed sections in the frames allows the use of new nailing techniques or cheaper needle point screws. Nailing, or a combination of nails and screws may also be used depending on the application.

Any builder or owner builder can erect a LYSAGHT SUPRAFRAME® and LYSAGHT SUPRATRUSS® system. The lightweight panels (one third the weight of timber) are easily handled and clearly labelled for site erection, with pre-punched electrical and plumbing service holes. Roof trusses are labelled and easily secured to support walls. Ceiling and roof battens are easily fixed to the truss.

Steel is a superior product for long term investment, with the added advantages of being light, strong, non-combustible, is termite and borer proof and will not shrink or warp. Steel framing has the durability and structural integrity to easily outlive the life of your building.

LYSAGHT SUPRAFRAME® and LYSAGHT SUPRATRUSS® are made from Zinc and Aluminium alloy coated steels which are protected from cut-edge corrosion by galvanic action, where the coating adjacent to the edge or holes protects the cut area.

Yes! The Steel Frame Fabricator will supply engineered specifications to assist in compliance with Council requirements and our framing systems are designed to comply with all relevant Australian Standards. Importantly, LYSAGHT SUPRAFRAME® and LYSAGHT SUPRATRUSS® have been fully appraised by the CSIRO, and have subsequently received Certificates of National Accreditation as a Building System.

With steel in house frames, this movement is negligible due to minimal direct heat transfer to the frame, even in hot weather. Furthermore, steel possesses a compatible expansion coefficient with that of plasterboard, thereby minimising the incidence of cracking. It is neither better nor worse - it is a different type of movement. If steel is exposed to direct heat, it would tend to expand and contract over a relatively short time cycle, whereas timber shrinks, expands and creeps over a somewhat longer time.

No! Any trade can work with steel framing. In fact some trades benefit, for example, bricklayers will install the brick ties by simply clipping them into the stud. Most frames are installed by qualified framers who work with both steel and timber.

Yes! These materials should be isolated because in the presence of water these materials will develop galvanic cells which will result in rapid destruction of the protective metal coating. Copper pipes are easily isolated from the frame by using nylon grommets or face fixed to the studs using plastic clips. Both of these systems also resist water hammer noise.

The LYSAGHT SUPRAFRAME® and LYSAGHT SUPRATRUSS® framing systems are by far the most advanced in the world. Reduced material gauges result in more economical and lightweight frames and new connection systems allow quick and easy assembly. Lintel and bracing systems designed to work compositely with the frame are more economical and new on-site nailing methods result in easier frame installation and fixout.

Some trades may choose to initially charge a little more for a steel framed home reflecting a reluctance to working with steel for the first time. However, with familiarity and competition, most trades quickly change their attitudes to NOT charge a premium for fixing steel. You will be able to enjoy the strength, reliability and convenience of steel frames without paying more.

No! Because a steel frame creates a positive earth, a lightning strike will have no effect. The energy is allowed to go straight to the ground, and is not dissipated destructively as in conventional framing.

No! The studs and plates have pre-punched holes to facilitate easy cable installation, grommets are fitted to protect the cable sheathing.

Very competitively! Since timber comes in all sorts of grades, quality and price variations, comparisons are tricky. However, if top quality timber is compared to quality steel, steel framing is competitively priced. LYSAGHT SUPRAFRAME® and LYSAGHT SUPRATRUSS® provides further savings in speed of erection, reduced labour, and less call backs. An added benefit is the price stability of steel which gives builders more confidence in pricing. Also, many builders around Australia are now using steel framing systems so it must be competitive!