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510 Barry’s Advanced Construction of Buildings
(a)
(b)
Photograph 8.9 Factory production of a timber-framed house. Insulation and windows
installed (a); exterior timber cladding being fixed (b).
easier to control quality in the factory and the whole building assembly can be kept dry
during manufacture, transportation and positioning, thus significantly reducing concerns
about the moisture content of the timber. Photograph 8.9 shows a panel of a timber-framed
house being assembled under factory conditions.
8.6 Metal systems
Lightweight steel is the material most used for metal-framed units. Steel components and
complete assemblies are constantly tested, and some bespoke volumetric house assemblies
now have Agrément certification and product warranties.
Advantages
❏ No waste material
❏ Capacity for long clear span
❏ Quick construction times
Disadvantages
❏ Some reduction in thermal insulation, potential thermal bridging at the stud. High
conductivity of steel is a concern for all steel-framed units.
❏ Low thermal mass (high-temperature variation).
❏ Sound transmission may be a problem if not detailed well.
Steel-framed housing
Steel-framed housing is becoming more common. Corus steel [previously British Steel
Framing (BSF)] fabricate a 75 mm deep galvanised steel frame system that provides the
shell of a house, in a similar way to timber frame housing (Photograph 8.10). Corus offers
a service whereby the steel frame for the house is designed, manufactured and erected. The
assembly includes insulation and vapour barrier sheathing. Wall frames are delivered with
integral bracing, which are easily manhandled into position. Floor joists are 150 mm deep