Historically, wood was king in the South Island construction industry. However, a Canterbury steel framing manufacturer claims that is set to change as it launches its framing revolution.
N-Steel Framing Solutions aims to capture 10% of the market after opening a new manufacturing plant in Rolleston late last year. The plant supplies steel framing for sheds, barns, homes and commercial buildings.
Managing director Sergey Nikiporenkov says his goal is to provide the market with cost-effective, safe and reliable steel framing.
“It’s a revolutionary product — with steel there’s no warping or shrinking in new buildings, and there’s no risk of leaky building syndrome,” he says.
“It’s a more environmentally-friendly product than chemically-treated wood, there are no volatile organic compounds and it is 100% recyclable.
“Steel framing is strong and light, and it stands up to the conditions better than wood, which is one of the reasons why we can offer a 50-year warranty.”
Steel framing was first used in New Zealand in the late 1960s, and is only now becoming a popular option because recent advances in technology have reduced building costs, improved precision and reduced build times.
“This is especially good news for those living in areas where builders are in short supply,” Mr Nikiporenkov says.
Around the world, as the price of timber climbs, steel is becoming an increasingly popular building option. In parts of the USA steel framing is used in up to 70% of new buildings.
Its popularity is also growing in Australia where it is now employed in the construction of 20% of all new buildings.
To ensure it starts on the right foot, the factory has been certified by FrameCAD Solutions, a New Zealand-based, internationally-renowned company. And, all designs are made in accordance with AS/NZS 4600:2005 for Cold-formed Steel Structures.
N-Steel Framing Solutions is a member of the National Association of Steel Framed Housing (NASH) and several overseas bodies in Australia, USA and in the UK.
