Timber vs Steel

Steel framing provides the solution for New Zealand’s timber shortage.

What costs should be considered?

As our homes age, maintenance is of course ongoing. And there are differences in certain factors of a timber home vs steel home, which may lead to additional costs down the track. Here are somethings to consider.

Timber: rotting, termite damage, stud damage, mould, natural disaster damage (flooding, earthquake etc) – however easy to add extensions or remove walls etc.

Steel: Insulation costs can be higher, rust (if there are leaks or condensation issues), additional work when adding extensions or new walls – however generally a lower cost in insurance fees (in some areas).

With both options there are pros and cons and typically in NZ it has come down to the builder’s choice on what material they are most comfortable with (“it’s how we’ve always done it” decision), but this is a decision that should be discussed with the client as ultimately, they will be responsible for any additional costs down the track.

So, while New Zealand is facing a timber shortage it doesn’t mean the building industry has to suffer – by diversifying the way that we build, we can ease the effects of shortages of specific materials.

It’s our security both financially and having a roof over our head.