Blog - Builders, Bishops Stortford
The Benefits of steel frame structure systems
What comes to your mind when you think of steel frame architecture? Cold, drab, communist-style structures? Wrong.
You only need to have been resident in the UK for a short while to know the Ritz hotel, Kodak building, and Waterloo terminal. They are all architectural masterpieces located in London, and they have one thing in common — they were all built using steel frame architecture!
At the time they were built, steel frame architecture was a relatively new technology, and investing millions in building with it was considered a giant leap for mankind.
Fast forward to now, these structures have gone on to stand the test of time, and steel frame architecture has grown to become the construction system of choice in the civil engineering industry. Whether hybrid construction projects that use both steel and wood, or full-throttle metal building projects, there is a luxury of options for the modern builder to select from.
In this post, we’ve stepped into the shoes of the modern builder to chalk out the pros and cons of steel frame architecture, and why we consider it preferable to the more standard wooden frame technology:
Pros
Below, we highlight the advantages offered by steel frame technology over the more traditional wood in building and architecture.
Eco-friendly & Sustainable
Over 80 million tons of steel goes into recycling each year. So it hardly requires analysis to see that steel is one of the most recyclable materials in civil engineering. Wood, on the other hand, is a mostly single-use, one-and-done material. Also, the steel industry, conscious of its environmental responsibility and obligations, regularly finds new and improved ways to cut down its energy use and emissions levels. This makes Steel frame structure systems gain the nod of approval of many a builder.
For context, the steel industry:
Recycles more than 80 million tons of steel annually
Has reduced the energy required to produce/recycle steel by 28%, compared to in 1990.
Has succeeded in reducing its carbon footprint by 30%
Wood, on the other hand, requires trees to be cut down, thus bringing about negative impacts on our ecosystem.
Also, buildings built with steel frames are usually more energy-efficient, compared to those built with wooden frames. Steel, being an extremely sturdy material, holds everything strongly in place, creating an air-tight seal that insulates the inside from the outside environment.
Tough as nails — Steel frame structures are stronger and more durable
Wood is susceptible to insect and pest attacks, even when all recommended preventive measures are taken. Steel on the other hand isn’t. Also, wood is not very weather resistant, it absorbs moisture. Meanwhile, weather conditions only cause steel to expand and contract. And this contraction and expansion are accounted for in the design of the structure. So, the weather rarely has a negative effect on steel structures.
Without question, Steel is a lot stronger than wood. Due to its high tensile strength, it can bear nearly twice as much weight as wood can. Also, steel is more durable and takes far more time to deteriorate compared to wood. So, if you are looking out for the longevity of your project, steel is your guy.
Fire resistant
Alas! A building material the firefighters can thank you for — steel. Wood is flammable, and in the event of any fire outbreak, will quickly get burnt up, leading to the collapse of the entire structure. Steel on the other hand is not flammable, only melts under extremely high temperatures, and will preserve structural integrity in the event of a fire outbreak.
Guarantees faster build time
The cliche goes, ‘time is money’, and in real estate, the faster you build, the faster you can recoup your expenses, pay back your loans and begin to make profits.
Using steel frame architecture greatly shortens your project build time. And that’s because steel parts are usually pre-fabricated and only need to be put together at the building site. Unlike wood which usually still requires some fashioning. For instance, the steel structure of the empire state building in New York was erected in only 6 months and total construction was completed in only a year.
It’s more cost-effective and gives the best bang for your buck!
In the light of its various properties, it is safe to say that steel is more cost-effective than wood. Since it’s more durable and resistant to fire, weather, and insect damage, it lasts longer and so, does not need to be replaced as frequently as wood would need to. Also, since it saves build time, it allows your property to come into service early, which if it is for commercial purposes, translates into earnings.
Cons
While we might love to wax lyrical about steel frame architecture might be the best thing since sliced bread, we however do not deny that steel frame architecture comes with certain disadvantages. Here, we reel out some of the most notable downsides to using steel frames.
It’s got higher heat conductivity
Steel is a much better conductor of heat compared to wood and will conduct a significant portion of the heat inside a building away, which in turn increases the building’s energy needs. But there’s a way out of this, though. To prevent this, builders have to put in place sufficient insulation materials.
Not usually adjustable, on-site
As we have said earlier, steel components are usually prefabricated at factories and are only assembled at build sites. This hampers flexibility. When building with wood, if one piece appears to be out of size, it can be quickly shaved down. On the other hand, steel components that don’t fit have to be put aside and left unused.
Requires secondary components
You can build a structure using entirely wood. But you cannot do the same using steel. Steel architecture always requires secondary components, including wood itself, to be put up a solid structure alongside the steel frame.
Parting Thoughts
Granted. The benefits of structural Steel may seem innumerable, but the outcome of using steel frame structure systems is often highly dependent on other factors like the experience level of your builder, and the quality of the materials. These two factors go a long way in ensuring your buildings have a formidable structure that is not vulnerable to external forces of weather, moisture, and the effluxion of time.
If you’re planning building/development and are caught in two minds regarding whether to use steel or wooden frames, why don’t you get in touch with us and let our engineers show you all there is to know?
Do I need to tell my neighbours about my Extension plans?
In a word no… But you really should!
You only need to legally notify your neighbours if the planned extension will effect the property boundary. In general though, its just common politeness to inform your neighbours of any construction works.
As the work begins, your neighbours lifestyles will be impacted by noise, dust and dirt. Keeping them sweet is always going to work in your favour. Even with planning permission, an angry neighbour can step in and cause untold problems for a development such as yours.
Have you heard of the right to light?
When it comes to extending our homes, we often focus on factors such as design, functionality, and cost. However, there is another crucial consideration that homeowners in the UK must be aware of: the right to light. This legal concept ensures that neighboring properties receive adequate natural light, preventing potential disputes and maintaining a harmonious living environment. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of the right to light and how it affects home extensions in the UK.
Understanding the Right to Light:
The right to light is a legal principle that protects the access to natural light for properties. It is based on the idea that natural light is essential for the well-being and enjoyment of a property, and that neighboring properties should not be unduly deprived of this valuable resource. The right to light is not explicitly defined in UK legislation but is instead based on common law and legal precedents.
The Impact on Home Extensions:
When planning a home extension, it is crucial to consider the potential impact on neighbouring properties’ right to light. If the proposed extension significantly reduces the amount of natural light reaching a neighbouring property, it may be deemed an infringement of their right to light. This can lead to legal disputes and potential injunctions, which can delay or even halt the extension project.
Assessing the Impact:
To assess the impact of a proposed home extension on the right to light, various factors are considered. These include the size and location of windows in the affected property, the distance between the properties, and the angle of sunlight. Additionally, the duration and intensity of light deprivation caused by the extension are also taken into account.
Mitigating Measures:
To avoid infringing on the right to light, homeowners can take several measures during the planning and design stages of their home extension project. These may include:
Consulting with Neighbours: Engaging in open and transparent communication with neighbouring property owners can help address any concerns and find mutually agreeable solutions.
Professional Assessments: Seeking professional advice from a surveyor or architect experienced in right to light matters can help determine the potential impact of the extension and identify possible mitigation strategies.
Design Considerations: Adjusting the design of the extension, such as altering window placement or using light-enhancing materials, can help minimize the impact on neighbouring properties’ access to natural light.
Legal Agreements: In some cases, homeowners may enter into legally binding agreements, such as light obstruction notices or rights of light easements, to address any potential disputes and protect the right to light.
Conclusion:
The right to light is a crucial consideration when planning home extensions in the UK. By understanding the legal principles and taking proactive measures to assess and mitigate the impact on neighbouring properties, homeowners can ensure a smooth and harmonious extension project. Consulting professionals and engaging in open communication with neighbours are key steps towards preserving the right to light while enhancing our homes.
How to start planning for an Extension.
How to start planning for an Extension.
If you need more living space, you have two options: Move or renovate! The stress and cost of moving isn’t for everyone so its unsurprising that many homeowners opt to hunker down and renovate, extend and improve their homes.
Whether you want to extend your kitchen or plan of diving head first into a full two story extension, read our quick guide on ‘How to plan your home extension.’
How much will it cost?
A Kitchen or small side extension can cost somewhere between £35K - £55K+ with double or even triple story extensions ranging from £75k++. With this in mind, the cost of your extension will of course depend on a wide variety of factors, square footage and materials being the main focus.
Can you live on a building site?
Simply put… Yes, you can live on a building site, however this can be uncomfortable and very difficult if the work effects the water or power! Be prepared for lots of loud noise and mess, if disruption isn’t for you it might be best to vacate for a short period, you could:
Stay in a short term rental property.
Sofa surf with friends and family.
Travel while works are completed, if that’s really an option.
Stay in a hotel or bed & breakfast.
Planning permission for an extension.
Planning permission is often the first stumbling point when planning begins, you have nothing to fear, with the right help its easy! (We have just the person on our team).
You don’t always need planning permission for an extension: however you may need to get planning if:
The extension is more than half the area of land around the house.
You live in a listed building.
You live in a conservation area.
You expect to exceed your permitted development rights.
Permitted development rights.
Permitted development rights refers to an amount of work that can be carried out before needing to file a planning application. There are strict rules that must be followed in this case:
A double story extension cannot be closer than 7m to the rear boundaries.
The rear wall can be extended by up to 8m for a single story extension.
The rear wall can only be extended by 2m for two story extensions.
The ridge height of any extension can not be higher than that of the original dwelling.
The rear wall of a terraced or semi-detached property can only be extended by a maximum of 6m.
Building regulations for your extension.
Regardless of planning permission, all building projects must comply with building regulations. Building regulations cover a wide range of factors including fire safety, drainage, plumbing, electrics and insulation.
You, the homeowner, is legally responsible for ensuring that the build fully complies with all building regulations. You can either hire a representative from your local council or private company. The assessor will need to be on site when the job begins and will periodically attend to make checks. At the end of the project the assessor will issue a building control certificate that states the project is fully compliant with building regulations.
Home extension step-By-step
Looking to add a little value, space and all important light to your home? Here’s what you need to enjoy a successful extension project…
Like almost everything, proper planning is essential to turn even the most humble of homes into a modern and stylish place for you and your family.
With the correct design input and professional execution, you can create a new zone to your home that transforms the way you interact with your environment. This new zone will also add considerable value to your home!
But really… why extend your home when you can move?
One of the big, if not biggest, advantages of adding more space to your existing home is that you won't have to pay stamp duty or agents' fees. Take the money you might have paid in stamp duty and transform your plans into something bespoke!
It's also very important to keep resale values in mind. Consider how well-balanced the finished house will be. It's all very well adding a large open plan kitchen-diner with two new bedrooms above, for example, but do you have enough bathrooms or ensuites to serve the extra accommodation?
Thinking through how the new extension will integrate with the rest of your home - and possibly remodelling the original ground floor layout - could help you make the most of your scheme.
Extension checklist: What to consider before taking the leap.
1 What's my extension budget?
It's all too easy to be cagey about how much you have to spend, but if you give your designer a budget (minus your contingency) they'll be better able to assess what you can achieve for the money you have available. A good professional will of course aim to deliver the wow factor - but above all they'll want to create the space you want at a price you can afford.
2 Do I need planning permission for my extension?
Some extensions are allowed under permitted development rights, this means you don't have to make a planning application. Your project will need to fit a range of criteria relating to size, height, materials and orientation, if it falls outside of the rules, you'll need to make a formal planning application.
3 How easy will access be?
If you're taking on a rear or side extension and live in a terraced or semi-detached property, then getting materials / plant in could be an issue. Generally, this will mean walking products through the existing house, and may require manual digging of foundations - all of which will add time and cost.
4 Where are the drains?
If there's an existing drainage route beneath or close to the location you have in mind for an extension, this may have to be moved. Should this be a shared public sewer, then you'll need to get the agreement of the water company to make any alterations.
5 Boundaries & party walls
Many extension projects will involve at least one boundary or party wall. In such cases, your scheme will come under the auspices of the Party Wall Act - so you'll need to secure a suitable agreement with affected neighbours.
6 Will an extension have an adverse effect on my garden amenity?
If your home is on a tight plot with little in the way of outdoor space, then extending outwards may not be the best course. Good garden amenity is a valuable asset - so consider a loft conversion or, particularly in urban areas, a basement extension instead.
7 Do I have extension insurance?
Most standard buildings insurance policies won't cover your property while you're having major work carried out.