Frequently Asked Questions

Questions Often Asked by Homeowners

1. Does a steel frame interface with radio or television reception? 
   No. Waves pass through the space between the studs, allowing the use of all appliances without interference. 
2. Can I hang pictures on the walls? 
   Yes. Depending on the weight of the picture, a toggle bolt or hanger may be used to attach a frame to a steel stud. Studs can easily be located with a magnet. For lightweight items, simply use a drywall anchor, avoiding the studs.
3. Is a steel frame more dangerous in lightening? 
   No. A steel frame offers occupants better protection because the steel provides a path to the ground, reducing the likelihood of explosions or secondary fire.
4. Will I be able to remodel my steel frame? 
   Yes. Since steel framing allows for larger spans, a home can be designed without interior load bearing partitions, making alterations easier and without affecting the structure.
5. Will my steel framed home rust? 
   No. The use of galvanized steel framing components protects your home from corrosion.
6. Will steel framing affect the indoor air quality of my home? 
   No. Steel homes do not need to be treated for termites and are free of resin adhesives and chemicals.

Questions Often Asked by Builders/Developers

1. Why build with steel? 
   Residential steel framing members are cost effective, light weight, easy to handle, and manufactured in conditions that allow strict quality control. When designed properly, the result is a solid, beautiful home. Steel framing is termite proof, non-combustible, and durable. 
2. Will the house look different than the rest in my development? 
   No, only if you want it to. In fact, because of steel's properties our architect can design your home with larger open spaces. With steel framing, the walls will remain straight and true, preventing call backs due to nail pops and shrinkage cracks. Finishes can be the same as you are accustomed to using. 
3. What about the environmental impact of steel construction? 
   The overall recycling rate of the steel industry is 66%, the highest of any industry in the country, offering an environmentally sound home framing alternative.
4. What about cost? 
   Experienced builders interviewed nationwide have affirmed that framing with steel is commonly less expensive than traditional framing. In recent years, the price of traditional framing materials has been erratic and increasing at a rate much faster than inflation, while the price of steel has remained relatively constant over the last decade. 
5. How can I find a competent builder to prepare my homesite? 
   GreenSteel Homes is developing an Approved Builders List in the areas where our homes are available. GreenSteel will work with your builder as they lay your foundation, prepare and complete necessary site work. A GreenSteel team will actually assemble your home and secure the roof.
6. Will the house need bigger footings and foundations? 
   No. Steel framing components weigh up to 60% less than wood framing components. The foundations, and even the seismic design loads can be smaller. 
7. Can I find plumbers and electricians to work on the house? 
   Plumbers and electricians have worked with steel framing in commercial construction for years and are very familiar with it. Steel studs have pre-punched holes that allow faster and easier access to plumbing and electrical work than in conventional homes.
8. Will I be able to sell my house? 
   Your house does not need to look any different than your neighbor's and should sell just as easily. In taking advantage of the strength of steel, you will be able to select a model with either wide open spaces or intimate interiors, increasing the flexibility of living space that can be offered to the homeowner. Because of steel's high strength and durability your house should last and retain its value for a longer time.