How Are Steel Frame Constructions Made

The 6 Steps of Steel Frame Construction

Initial Design

The first step in any construction project is conceptualising the overall design. Expert experienced staff will take into consideration the scale of the project, its purpose, and any client requirements, and put together all the overall design that will work best for the clients needs.

Process Optimisation

After approving the initial design it then moves on to the drawings stage, draughtsman will review everything and ensure maximum accuracy and overall design whilst digitalizing the design concept. If planning permission is required we can submit to local authority making sure everything is in place.

Manufacturing Components

Once the design is approved and all permissions are granted we move on to the order processing and manufacturing stage. The main components of a steel frame building are:

• Steel framing

This includes columns and rafters, eaves beams, bracings, which make up the skeleton of your building. The role of steel members is to provide structure and support the weight of the entire building. The manufacturing process is as follows: at first, raw steel is cut to its desired length. Then, experienced welders/fabricators prepare all the components. Lastly, the components are welded together, and the welds/steel is checked to ensure maximum quality.

• Wall and roof panels

These components are usually made from steel sheets, with or without a insulation core. The sheets are fabricated by placing large steel coils through machines, to achieve the desired profile, each sheet is then cut to the desired length.

• Trim components Rain water goods

All steel frame structures also require trim components: these are corner trims, jamb trims, drips, gutter straps, downpipes, and gutters. The manufacturing of trim components is machine automated - the steel is passed through a straightener and afterwards formed into the required shape.

On top of the main parts, steel buildings also require additional components called ancillary components. These are:

• Doors

• Windows

• Insulation

• Ventilation systems

• Interior partitions

These parts serve a functional purpose. The main factors to consider when choosing the right ancillary components are energy efficiency but also the overall aesthetic of the building.

On-Site Preparations

One of the main advantages of steel frame construction is that the fabrication of every component happens off-site. This means that on-site preparations can happen ahead of steel delivery, increasing time and cost efficiency.

There are a few steps to take to ensure optimal preparation for your construction site:

• Levelling the terrain

• Removing obstructions (e.g. foliage)

• Laying the foundation

If you're using concrete for the foundation, you'll need to make sure it has enough time to dry beforehand. The drying process can be affected by weather and the thickness of the concrete, so it is necessary to plan accordingly. The recommended time is at least 5-7 days

A good construction project also needs a site waste management plan to deal with all the debris and waste occurring during prep, but also during the construction and post-construction phases.

On the day, it is essential to make sure the site is fully accessible for any delivery wagons, trucks, gantry cranes or MEPs (Mobile Elevated Platforms).

Sustainable Construction Methods in Steel Building Projects

Incorporating sustainable construction methods is essential to maximising steel’s environmental benefits. Here are key practices businesses should consider:

1. Efficient Use of Materials

Steel’s high strength-to-weight ratio means less material is needed to achieve the same structural integrity as other materials. Prefabrication, a common practice in steel construction, further minimises waste by producing precise components in controlled environments, as detailed by Construction Management.

2. Climate-Responsive Designs

Sustainable design and construction prioritise buildings that adapt to their environments. Steel’s flexibility allows for designs that withstand extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes, floods, and rising temperatures, ensuring long-term resilience in a changing climate.

3. On-Site Waste Management

By incorporating waste reduction strategies, such as recycling steel scraps and other materials, construction sites can operate more sustainably. Companies like Leominster Construction handle this aspect efficiently, ensuring minimal waste and maximum resource reuse.

On-Site Delivery

After all the structural steel components are fabricated, they are loaded on trucks and transported on-site when everything is prepared for the construction work to begin. This helps reduce on-site labour and construction time and also means fewer delays due to unforeseen circumstances such as harsh weather.

Steel Frame Assembly

Once the site is fully prepped and components are delivered, it's time for the assembly work to begin. This happens in 7 key stages, which we'll explain in detail below:

1. Unloading

All steel needs to be unloaded in a designated area that is properly organised to ensure an efficient assembly process.

2. Framing

The very first part of construction will be assembling the frame of your building. This involves bolting together all the steelwork to create the skeleton of your building. At this stage, concrete panels are fitted if required. Then the secondary structures such as , purlins and rails ties and sleeves.

3. Attaching steel panels

The walls and roof panels are fixed to the structure to create an enclosed space.

4. Installing doors and windows

5. Utilities

Your contractors deal with any utility installations including plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

6. Finishing touches

At the end, all the interior and exterior surfaces are finished using drywall and paint.

Skills Involved In Steel Frame Building

Steel frame building is an extensive process that requires a great range of skill sets. A team of professionals working on a structural steel frame building requires highly trained engineers, architects, and construction workers who possess a combination of:

• Engineering and manufacturing expertise

• Expert industry knowledge

• Attention to detail

• Teamwork

• Ingenuity

Our professional team of experts at Leominster Construction is equipped with all the right tools and skills to take your steel frame project from initial concept to completion. To learn more about what we can do for you, complete our form or call for an initial consultation today!