What are the sustainability credentials of light steel framing in construction and in use?
• C02 production in service is reduced by energy efficient design, which can be improved by off-site manufacture. • Renewable energy systems can be introduced in to the roofing and cladding, and as part of the whole building system. • Embodied energy is minimised by the use of light weight construction. The steel use is typically only 40 kg/m2 floor area. • High levels of thermal insulation can be achieved cost effectively. • Air-tight buildings can be achieved which reduces heat loss. • Steel buildings can be extended and modified easily in the future, which reduces future energy demand. Water • Water is recycled during steel production. • Steel technologies are essentially ‘dry’ processes on site. Materials • Steel based systems score A or A+ rating under BRE’s ‘Green Guide to Housing Specification’. • Steel is reliable in terms of its properties and is robust to damage and durable. Steel components are free from movements and cracking due to creep and shrinkage. • Materials are used
