Are you confused about whether steel or timber is going to be best for your Tiny House frame? In this Blog we share the 5 main reasons we switched to steel.
The benefits of using a metal frame to build a Tiny House on wheels out shine those of a timber frame (pun intended!). Steel is lighter than timber, yet stronger, and it doesn’t burn, warp or rot.
The strength and quality of a building not only depends on the materials used but also how it’s designed and built. At Aussie Tiny Houses we build homes that are professionally engineered to meet Australian Standards, last the test of time, and fit within our client’s budgets. It’s our Mission to create freedom through lifestyle change.
Steel frames provided the solution we were seeking to support the lives of people affected by fire, flood, and economic upheaval. The switch from timber to steel frames went smoothly. Operations Manager Thiago upskilled the build team and met the changing design needs with Richard, our Architect.
5 reasons to choose Steel Frame to build your Tiny House
Weight
Steel frames are much lighter than timber frames which means we can build bigger Tiny Houses within the 4.5 ton weight restriction for towing on Australian roads.
Strength
Steel has a consistent quality and strength, where timber is naturally variable. Steel can be used for walls, roofing and floor systems and when riveted, bolted or screwed, holds tighter than nails for longer.
Durability
Our steel frames are riveted so vibration during transport or movement with shifting ground is not an issue and your home will keep its quality over time. Steel doesn’t shrink or rot, making it the versatile option for Australia’s varied environmental conditions.
Storm resistance and fire safety
We use quality Australian Bluescope Steel which is storm resistant and allows us to over-engineer all our standard models to a C2 Cyclone Rating. Steel frames are the sensible choice when it comes to fire safety!
No worries about termites (aka white ants)
Pests can’t eat or burrow into steel! A steel frame means no need for chemically treated timber or expensive white ant eradication.
Nothing beats our engineered steel frames.
Fabio Paulucci, Founder of Aussie Tiny Houses
The pros and cons of steel frames
Steel framed houses are relatively new. It’s only in the last twenty years or so that this type of construction has become mainstream with the first steel framed homes built in the 1960s! At ATH we purchase all build materials in large quantities to reduce waste and achieve a lower footprint.
Steel requires more energy to produce than timber from renewable forests. However, steel requires less maintenance and there’s no need for termite management which balances out cost over time. There have been improvements in manufacturing processes making steel a more affordable option.
“Steel is 100% recyclable and one of the most recycled materials on earth. The ability of steel frames to seal around door frames and windows has the added environmental benefit of reducing the cost and environmental impact of running heating and cooling in the home.” – Kitome House Designers and Builders, Australia.
Water, wind and sand in coastal areas can prove corrosive to a steel frame. With regular inspection and reliance on ATH’s fine craftsmanship, potential issues can be avoided. If you’re planning to park your Tiny House in a salt zone, complete the Get a Quote questionnaire with your individual project needs and let us help you find the best solution.
The pros and cons of timber frames
We began ATH using traditional timber frames and over the years have shifted to using steel. Timber may be the easier option for a home built on a foundation but for a moveable home, steel is best.
Steel is a solid and sturdy frame for interior walls and exterior cladding but timber is prone to movement in all the wrong places! Timber is a water-based cellulose product that expands and shrinks during different environmental conditions. If the rate at which the timber expands or shrinks is relatively fast, it can lead to cracked cornices and surface splitting.
A timber frame poses a risk for termite (white ant) infestations. With Australia’s varied climate and that our clients live across the country, many in regional and rural areas, we thought it a smart move to switch to stable steel frames and avoid these expensive problems.
Timber has been considered a cheaper option over steel, depending on the quality and specifications and taking into account the tools and skills required to work with steel are different.
If you’re considering a DIY Tiny House you can learn more about building with a timber frame at Tiny Realestate or choose a model at Lock Up or Shell stage and let us help you get your dream home project off to a great start.
| Lock Up Stage Inclusions | Shell Stage Inclusions | Turn Key Complete Stage Inclusions |
| Trailer | Lock Up stage inclusions | Lock Up + Shel stage inclusions |
| Subfloor | Insulation | Kitchen Cabinets and Fittings |
| Steel Frame | Walls and Ceiling Lining | Bathroom Fittings |
| Windows and doors | Waterproof Flooring | Custom Cabinetry Stairs |
| Cladding | Full Electrical (15amp + Switchboard) | Custom Cabinetry |
| Colourbond Roof and Flashings | Full Plumbing (Gas + Water) | Appliances (Cooktop + Oven) |
Our steel frames provide a standard 70mm wall thickness, deep window reveal and larger cavity for the high quality R3.5 wool insulation batts we use.
Most transportable and modular home builders now use steel frames. However, not all builders use steel so it pays to check and make sure you get what suits your individual project needs.
From the inside to the outside!
Now you know why we switched from timber to steel frames! We bring the same skill and experience to interior design and external features of every house we build.
What will you put on the outside of your strong steel frame?
Choose from a range of exterior cladding that helps with thermal and sound insulation, levels of fire protection and maintenance.
Contact Us to find out more about our Tiny Houses and let’s start designing a home that’s best for you.
1 COMMENT
Karl Kowalczuk
2 years agoI believe steel metal frames clearly have an upper hand when it comes to strong and long-lasting doors in the house. It is not like you will be shifting from your house in a couple of months.