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INDUSTRY WATCH
New Publication On HUD-Sponsored Site Helps
Builders Evaluate Steel Framing
WASHINGTON, DC — 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,” the first TechSpec
on 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. “TechSpecs are designed to be
a one-stop resource for technical stakeholders who are charged
with implementing the technology. These documents essentially
take the guesswork out of choosing cost-effective technologies
and methods that can not only improve the quality of a home
but also deliver a distinct market advantage,” Mr. Peavey
said.
“Any time a builder decides to take a look at using
new or alternative technologies, they are going to have a
lot of questions,” said Larry Williams, SFA president.
“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.”
The SFA’s comprehensive menu of educational programs
and resource materials makes it easy to learn current best
practices for design and construction. In addition to training
curriculums and seminars, these resources include technical
notes, design guides and specifications, “how to”
guides and so much more.
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. PATH is dedicated
to accelerating the development and use of technologies that
radically improve the quality, durability, energy efficiency,
environmental performance, and affordability of America’s
housing.
For more information, contact the Steel Framing Alliance
at (202) 785-2022 or visit www.steelframing.org.
Source: Steel Framing Alliance,
February 12, 2008
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