Why steel
What steel framing changes, and how it complies
Steel framing is a mature, code-accepted way to build in Australia. This page sets out the standards behind it and the practical differences on site.
Compliance path
Under the National Construction Code 2022, Volume Two, a steel frame satisfies the structural performance requirement when it is designed to the NASH Standard for residential and low-rise steel framing, or to AS/NZS 4600 for cold-formed steel structures. No CodeMark or alternative solution is needed for a conventional house frame.
In Victoria, the Building Regulations 2018 require a Regulation 126 certificate of compliance for the design, issued by a registered engineer, before construction, and a second certificate for the inspection of the completed frame. FrameSet's engineers provide both.
| Document | What it covers |
|---|---|
| NCC 2022 Vol. Two, H1D6 | Accepts steel framing designed to the NASH Standard or AS/NZS 4600 |
| AS/NZS 4600 | Design of cold-formed steel structures |
| NASH Standard Parts 1 and 2 | Residential and low-rise steel framing design and construction |
| AS 1397 | Coil: G550 steel with Z or AZ coating classes |
| Building Regulations 2018 (Vic) reg. 126 | Engineer's design and inspection certificates |
On site
- Lighter. A steel frame is roughly a third of the weight of the same frame in timber, so handling and craning are easier.
- Straight and stable. Steel does not shrink, twist or bow, so plaster and tiling go on straight walls and stay that way.
- Termite-proof. No termite barrier systems or ongoing inspections for the frame itself.
- Non-combustible. Steel does not contribute fuel to a fire, which matters in bushfire-prone and high-density sites.
- Pre-punched. Service holes are rolled into the studs, so electricians and plumbers are not drilling on site.
- Recyclable. Offcuts and end-of-life frames go back into steel making.
Thermal bridging and condensation
Steel conducts heat, so the NCC's energy and condensation provisions matter. The usual answers are thermal breaks on external studs and continuous insulation, which we detail with your energy assessor's report.