The Steel Framing Alliance (SFA) announced the release of the first TechSpec on “Cold-Formed Steel Framing,” a document the Washington, D.C.-based market development group says is an excellent resource for any builder considering making the switch to cold-formed steel. The four-page document provides a comprehensive overview of steel framing, including what it takes to make the switch, what to consider when determining if cold-formed steel is right for the next project, and steps to take when a builder decides to start building with steel.

“Cold-Formed Steel Framing” was prepared for both the SFA and the Partnership for Advancing Technology in Housing (PATH) by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center. It is now available as a free download on the NAHB Research Center’s ToolBase Web site at http://www.toolbase.org/pdf/techinv/steel_framing_techspec.pdf.

According to John Peavey, applied technology director for the NAHB Research Center, TechSpecs serve as a resource that can help builders implement construction innovations in manageable, systems-based packages.

Larry Williams, SFA president said, “This new TechSpec on “Cold-Formed Steel Framing” is an excellent resource that covers everything from costs and benefits of building with steel, to even some “real-world” feedback from field evaluations. It allows builders to quickly get up to speed on everything they need to know about steel framing so that they can then make an informed decision that works best for them.”

ToolBase Services is the housing industry's resource for technical information on building products, materials, new technologies, business management, and housing systems. The NAHB Research Center provides the services, with funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the PATH program and other industry sponsors. For more information, visitwww.steelframing.org.