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This page was printed from www.nzsteel.co.nz on 8 Sep 2010
AXXIS® Steel for Framing is a brand of galvanised, high-tensile steel supplied by New Zealand Steel to New Zealand's house framing market. An increasing number of builders are constructing homes with steel-framing made from AXXIS® Steel and are finding it good for business. With many benefits including the quality finish which steel-framing delivers, it's easy to see why.
Working with steel-framing is very fast and easy. Most steel-framing fabricators will both supply and erect it for you, but if you want to erect it yourself, you will find it very straightforward. Fabricators usually supplyframes pre-assembled, strong and straight, and clearly identifiable. No welding is required. The frames come with service holes pre-punched and with plastic grommets to make it easy for your sub-trades to work with. Plus best of all the steel-frames do not absorb moisture so there is no delay waiting for frames to dry.
The rollforming technology behind steel-framing gives a high degree of dimensional accuracy, enabling consistently straight walls, square corners and an overall superior finish. The exactness that comes frombuilding in this way helps later trades fitting internal linings, kitchens and other cupboards. Plus the stability of steel means no contraction or expansion with moisture changes, so frames won't warp, twist, sag or shrink, eliminating many of the maintenance issues that create builder call-backs.
Customers will find the benefits of steel-framing compelling. As well as the big draw-card of a top quality finish, they'll benefit from a healthier indoor environment and knowing that they've made an environmentally responsible choice and because frames made from AXXIS® Steel remain strong and true for years to come the likelihood of problems associated with excessive frame movement are greatly reduced, which means fewer call-backs and a home that looks as good as the day they moved in.
A steel-frame is lightweight and easy to handle (it's approximately one third of the weight of a timber-frame). Steel has none of the additional preservative chemicals associated with timber, an important consideration for the health of builders and tradesmen working on-site. It‘s also electrically safe and fire-resistant, and a healthy option for the homeowner as it won't support mould growth or rot.
AXXIS® Steel has been developed and tested by New Zealand Steel, for New Zealand conditions. Galvanised with a 100% zinc coating for protection, it is backed by a 50–year Durability Statement, so you can trust that AXXIS® Steel will stand the test of time.
It may only represent around 10% of the total building cost, but the quality of the frame determines the quality of a home's finish. With every length straight, stable and strong a frame made from AXXIS® Steel is a top quality product and contrary to common perception, all the benefits come at a price that's competitive with timber.
Steel-framing opens up a variety of design possibilities. Steel's high strength-to-weight ratio gives it excellentspanning capability, providing more design freedom to cost-effectively create wide, open spaces.
With design and quality advantages, the benefits of building with AXXIS® Steel for Framing cannot be ignored.
For additional information visit www.axxis.co.nz.