FAQs

No, this is not correct, you can build on either. Steel framing can be fixed directly to a concrete slab, or to steel flooring systems on brick, concrete, or steel piers.

Yes! But ensure copper piping is isolated - in the presence of water copper will develop galvanic cells which will result in rapid destruction of the protective metal coating of the steel frame. 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 Building Code of Australia specifies chemical and physical termite barriers only where structural members are subject to termite attack. A steel frame is resistant to termite attack and a house built with a steel frame without a termite barrier is a reasonably safe option for an owner. The safest possible options are a steel frame plus non-structural fixtures of termite-resistant materials, or a steel frame plus a termite barrier. Visit the National Association for Steel Framed Housing's (NASH) Termite Information.

Innovative frame technology now means steel frames for standard house designs can be priced competitively with other quality framing systems.

Almost all systems on the market can be installed by the customer. Indeed some producers supply frames in kit form specifically for the do-it-yourself owner builder. Panels are easily handled and are clearly labelled for assembly, generally with pre-punched electrical and plumbing service holes. Roof trusses are labelled and easily secured to support the walls. Ceiling and roof battens are easily fixed to the trusses. NASH (National Association of Steel Framed Housing) provides instructional literature and videos to assist the owner builder or do-it-yourself installer.

Yes. Additions are relatively easy to make. In addition, the original steel structure will be straight regardless of age, making the job of lining up the extension easier.

Steel frame manufacturers and fabricators can produce almost any one or two storey home design seen in the Australian market today. Furthermore, it is possible to produce designs in steel that are difficult to replicate using other materials. By taking advantage of this feature a home owner can often build with less expense than by using more conventional materials.

Wall and roof frames made from TRUECORE® steel are engineered to be dimensionally accurate. They won’t shrink, twist or warp, reducing the likelihood of problems such as cracking cornices, jamming doors, sticking windows or wavy rooflines.

Most holes required for electrical cable are already provided in steel framing systems made from TRUECORE® steel. Feeding electrical cable through the pre-punched holes provided in steel framing is straight-forward and saves time drilling holes.

Wheat is now discontinued as a standard colour. Suppliers are still able to order non-standard colour from us, although price surcharges and/or minimum order requirements may apply. Please see our Find a Supplier page to find your nearest ten suppliers anywhere in Australia. This colour is  still available in our fencing range, however the colour name is specific to the fencing product range.   Harvest® is the fencing colour that matches the discontinued COLORBOND® steel colour Wheat. Please view information on Fencing range including the warranty.