Replies

1. 
   Guest_ | Sep 12, 2000 03:10am | #1

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   I build steel frame homes and have sold framing systems for homes. Some outfits are more interested in selling dealerships than the actual framing systems. I would hold a steel framing company up to the same standards to which you would hold any other sub-contractor. Check references, and verify engineering credentials (especially in California). I have been most disheartened by companies that tried to make a go of it and have since left the industry. I wish I could get more specific for you. I believe the West Coast has been much more receptive to steel framing than the East Coast (I am in Georgia), so you have that going for you. I encourage you to continue this pursuit. Steel can make a lot of sense.

1. 
   Guest_ | Sep 12, 2000 12:44pm | #2

   *From my perspective, I don't think steel will ever make any big gains over wood construction. We've tried things like steel studs in wall panels, and looked at building light gauge steel trusses. When lumber prices skyrocket, everybody and their brother is interested. Once lumber prices back off a bit, they all lose interest rather quickly.

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   Guest_ | Sep 14, 2000 05:36pm | #3

   *I can understand your perspective, Ron. At least you've tried. I think the steel industry approaches a lot of things the wrong way. Building with steel because you think it will be cheaper or faster will leave you disappointed. And believe me, I find it much easier to slap nails into wood rather than drive screws into steel. But steel has spoiled me in a few areas: Quality, fire and termite resistance, weather resistance, and permanence. My last employer put a an entire 2-story steel frame in their front yard about 3 years ago, and it still looks good. A little rust, a little oxidation, and deteriorated OSB floor decking -- the only other material used. Although this is extreme, what would a wood frame look like three years later? I'm kind of glad to be in the minority...