Wood vs. Steel Construction

In the world of home construction, one debate that endures is steel vs. wood building materials. Owner builders must consider both sides of the discussion, especially when their projects extend beyond renovation and improvement. When you build your own home, you need to consider every feature of your project from the inside out.

The steel faction

The uniformity of steel is appealing to those who say that steel framing is the best way to go.
Steel never warps, and doesn't expand or contract from moisture, nor does it absorb moisture.
Metal studs fasten for easier installation.
Metal framing has the advantage of having pre-cut holes for wiring.
In case of a fire, metal doesn't burn. So if a structure catches fire, metal will not spread the flames throughout the house.
Metal is completely recyclable, and is lighter than other framing material.
The price of metal is more stable and allows for easier budget estimates.
Mold will not grow on steel.
Wood-boring insects will never damage a steel-framed structure.

The wood faction

Those who claim that wood framing is the wisest choice say that wood provides a more solid frame and is more simple to work with.
The cost of building with wood is reasonable.
It's easy to find contractors who are experienced in building with wood-framed walls.

You can discuss with your contractor how to use the least amount of wood material and still maintain solid framing. For example, you can use less lumber inside the walls to provide more room for continuous insulation.
Wood framing remains the most widely used method of building homes and apartments in the United States according to the American Forest & Paper Association, and it also is being used more in commercial and industrial buildings.
Wood-framed buildings are economical to build and less expensive to heat and cool.
Wood-framed structures adapt to any building style -- traditional, contemporary, or futuristic.
Historically, the strength of wood-frame buildings is obvious because so many have lasted for so long.
Because steel transmits warmth and cold, it may require special insulation that may be more costly to the owner builder.
It is up to the individual homeowner to determine which is the best direction for his or her particular project.