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Office Acoustics
Specifiers Guide: Light Gauge Steel Framing Systems (SFS) External Wall Systems
Steel Framing System Overview
SFS is a popular choice within modern SFS construction. Its weight-bearing properties mean that this steel framing system is best suited to commercial projects rather than smaller interior or residential jobs. Cost-effective and quick to install, steel framed systems are a great alternative to timber framed systems. They also have the advantage of offering fire and heat resistant properties.
At Workplace Interior Shop, we offer drylining supplies and SFS products from leading manufacturers such as Metsec and Veostalpine – making your steel framing system installation easy:
Types of Steel Framing Systems
At Workplace Interior Shop, we stock a variety of SFS materials to make construction easy. These include:
SFS Base Tracks
Steel framing system base tracks are slightly wider, un-lipped components. As the name suggests, they’re installed at the base of your sfs wall and at the end of your floor or roof. Once fitted, it focuses on reducing the load on your primary framework.
SFS Head Tracks
Similarly, these are slightly wider, un-lipped sections. The steel frame tracks are designed to reduce the load on your main framework and sub-structure design. We offer both base and head SFS tracks in a variety of sizes to suit your project requirements.
SFS Slotted Head Tracks
Slotted SFS head tracks are un-lipped framework components that are used to create a more straightforward installation process. These are easily slotted with the rest of your steel framing system and create connections for SFS deflection brackets at the head of the structure.
SFS Studs
SFS studs are lipped C-sections. These galvanised metal studs are a key component in supporting your steel framing system and are applied to walls and jousting within your flooring or roofing.
Completing a large job? We supply everything you need to complete your project, including the ceiling, floors, walls and everything in between.
Benefits of Steel Framing (SFS)
There are many reasons to invest in a steel framing system for your drylining project. A few popular advantages include:
- Adaptability
SFS is extremely adaptable. It can be introduced within existing building interiors to transform the way you experience work by reconfiguring a more effective layout. Its precise, lightweight steel frame design means you can manipulate your steel framing system on site, as well as reduce the volume of wasted building materials from your project.
- Easy Installation
Like most drylining solutions, a steel framing system is easy to install. This means you can keep labour costs low and gives you confidence that you’ll meet project deadlines.
- Insulation
The structure of an SFS will support most sheathing materials and even allows space for additional insulation. This means you can enjoy the benefits of better thermal or acoustic insulation within your building.
- Customisation
Your SFS components can be custom-made according to your project needs. They are also supplied in standard lengths which can be cut on site, giving you better control over accuracy and customisation.
Steel Framing System Installation Advice
One of the main advantages of steel framing systems is the ease at which it can be installed. Once you have your load bearing SFS designs and the correct materials, this process can be simplified into two easy steps.
For more guidance on your steel framing system installation, please visit our Knowledge Hub. This contains key information relevant to your project that you may find beneficial.
- Track Installation
The first thing you will need to do is install your head and base or deep SFS tracks. The complete SFS system will run around the perimeter of your room, ready for your steel stud framing to be fitted.
- Stud Installation
Using your SFS designs as a reference point, fit your studs vertically into your tracks. These will need to be appropriately spaced to correctly support your system.
Steel Framing System (SFS) Aftercare and Service
The wonderful thing about steel frame systems is that once your structure is fully fitted, you can relax knowing that, unlike wooden frames, you won’t have to worry about shrinkage. A metal framed system will ultimately reduce the maintenance levels that you need to carry out to keep your SFS system in the best possible condition.
If you notice your SFS needs replacing, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We can advise on a cost-effective solution, bespoke to your SFS system.
What Our SFS Experts Say
Our team have years of experience in the office fit out industry. With strong connections, we are able to source any products that you may not be able to find on our website. For help finding your ideal solution, get in touch with a member of our friendly sales team. We are always happy to answer any further questions you may have.
Our Customers Also Ask
Find answers to the most common questions asked about steel framing system (SFS) solutions.
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Benefits of SFS (steel frame system)
Adaptable
SFS adaptability means it can be introduced into existing building interiors making them an ideal solution for a variety of projects. Precisely designed light components make the manipulation at the construction site easier, and reduce the waste of building materials.Budget Friendly
Easy installation means you can keep labour costs low and have confidence in hitting project time constraints.Performance
The structure creates support for most sheathing materials and allows space for insulation instalment, meaning you can achieve thermal and acoustic benefits within your project. Once the structure is installed you can relax knowing that, unlike wooden frames, there is no shrinkage and ultimately reduced maintenance levels.Key Benefits
- Cost and weight reductions of typically 5-10%
- Thinner, more efficient through wall constructions
- Fire performance tested and assessed
- Through wall and floor solutions for structural, fire, acoustic and thermal performance
- Greater deflection allowances for slotted head track - now up to +/-20mm
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What is SFS (steel frame system)?
SFS is a popular choice in modern construction, designated for the construction of panels and continuous walls. The system consists of C and U shaped studs and tracks which can be designed on a project specific basis and constructed on site, meaning you can achieve easy customisation for any work environment. Due to its cost effectiveness and speed of construction, it is a fantastic choice over timber framed systems, as well as having the advantage of featuring fire and heat resistant properties.
Key Features of SFS
- Suitable for a wide range of sector applications, including residential, hotels, student accommodation, social housing, healthcare and education
- Fire tested solutions based on British Gypsum, Siniat and Knauf plasterboard
- Thermal and fire performance solutions using Rockwool insulation
- New fire performance solutions using RCM Y Wall and Euroform Versaliner sheathing boards
- Works with a wide range of external finishes, including brickwork, insulated render, timber cladding, composite panels, ventilated rainscreens and brick slip systems
- CE Marked
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What spacing is needed for a steel framing system?
The spacing of your stud within your steel frame system will depend on your unique project. It’s important to meet regulations in order for your building to be compliant. For more advice on this, please contact our team.
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What’s the purpose of a steel framing system?
A steel framing system is a modern way for businesses to divide areas in the workspace. It's a partitioning system that allows a variety of customisations in terms of design and performance.
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What are the different types of steel framing systems?
There are several types of steel framing systems (SFS) available, each serving different purposes within construction projects. The different types include SFS base tracks, which are installed at the base of walls and at the end of floors or roofs, focusing on reducing the load on the primary framework. SFS head tracks are designed to reduce the load on the main framework and sub-structure design, and they come in various sizes to suit project requirements. SFS slotted head tracks are un-lipped components used to simplify the installation process and create connections for the SFS deflection brackets at the head of the structure. Lastly, SFS studs are lipped C-sections, crucial for supporting the steel framing systems, applied to the walls and joisting within flooring or roofing.
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What are the advantages of a steel framing system?
The steel framing system (SFS) offers several advantages, including:
Adaptability
- Can be introduced within existing building interiors
- Allows for reconfiguration of workplaces to create more effective layouts
Precision and Lightweight Design
- Enables easy manipulation on site
- Reduces the volume of wasted building materials
Easy Installation
- Straightforward to install, keeping labour costs low
- Aids in meeting project deadlines
Supports Various Sheathing Materials
- Compatible with most sheathing materials
- Allows space for additional insulation, providing enhanced thermal or acoustic insulation within buildings
Customisation
- Components can be custom-made according to project needs
- Offers better control over accuracy and customisation
Cost-Effective
- More economical compared to other framing options
Fire and Heat Resistant
- Offers good protection compared to wooden frames
Minimal Maintenance
- Requires less maintenance post-installation, reducing the likelihood of shrinkage and maintenance levels
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What’s the difference between SFS and steel frame?
The term "SFS" or "steel framing system" refers to a system used predominantly for the construction of panels and continuous walls. This is often in non-load bearing situations or as a secondary framing, such as partition walls or façades. It's characterised by its adaptability, lightweight design and easy installation, making it suitable for a variety of projects. It usually involves the use of C and U shaped stud and tracks, which can be customised and constructed on site. On the other hand, "steel frame" is a broader term that refers to the structural framework of a building. Steel is the main component used to support the building's load. It's used in the construction of both the primary and secondary structures of buildings, including the building's skeleton, which supports the roof, walls and floors. Steel framing construction is known for its strength, durability and ability to withstand external elements such as wind and seismic activity. In summary:
- SFS is more specific, often used for non-load bearing walls or secondary framing, focusing on adaptability and easy installation.
- Steel frame is a general term for the structural framework of a building, used in primary and secondary structures, known for strength and durability.
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How do I know if the steel framing system will be strong enough?
Determining whether your steel framing system (SFS) is strong enough involves several considerations and assessments. Here's a simplified guide:
- Consult with a Structural Engineer - A qualified structural engineer can assess your project's specific needs and requirements, ensuring that the chosen SFS meets the structural integrity needed for your building.
- Adherence to Building Codes and Standards - Ensure that the SFS adheres to local building codes and standards, which are designed to ensure the safety and stability of buildings.
- Load-Bearing Assessment - Evaluate the load-bearing capacity of SDS, considering both dead loads (permanent or stationary loads) and live loads (temporary or moving loads) that the system will need to support.
- Material Quality- Use high quality, durable steel that meets industry standards to ensure the strength and longevity of your framing system.
- Design Specifications - Review the design specifications of your SFS, including the thickness, size and spacing of the steel components to ensure they're suitable for your project's demands.
- Manufacturer's Recommendations - Follow the manufacturer's recommendations and guidelines for installation and use of the SFS to ensure optimal performance and strength.
- Regular Inspections and Maintenance - Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to identify and address any issues that could compromise the strength and stability of your SFS.
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What makes a quality steel frame?
A quality steel frame is determined by several factors, each contributing to the overall strength, durability and reliability of the structure. Here are the key elements that constitute a quality steel frame:
Material Quality
- High-Grade Steel - The steel should be of a high grade, meeting industry standards and specifications.
- Corrosion Resistance - The steel should have treatments or coatings to resist corrosion and rust, ensuring longevity.
Design and Engineering
- Precision Engineering - The design should be meticulously engineered to meet the structural requirements of the project.
- Optimal Design - The frame should be designed to efficiently distribute loads and withstand external forces such as wind and seismic activity.
Manufacturing Process
- Quality Control - Strict quality control measures should be in place during manufacturing to ensure consistency and adherence to specifications.
- Welding Quality - The welding should be done with precision to ensure strong and secure joints.
Installation
- Proper Installation - The frame should be installed correctly, following the manufacturer's guidelines and best practices to ensure structural integrity.
- Alignment and Accuracy - The components should be accurately aligned and secured to avoid any structural issues.
Compliance and Certification
- Building Codes - The frame should comply with local building codes and regulations to ensure safety and legality.
- Certifications - Having certifications from relevant authorities or bodies can attest to the quality and reliability of the steel frame.
Sustainability
- Eco-Friendly - Quality steel frames are often made from recyclable materials and have a lower environmental impact.
- Energy Efficiency - When used in construction, the frame should support energy-efficient designs and insulation.
Aesthetic Appeal
- Finish - The frame should have a clean and smooth finish, contributing to the aesthetic appeal of the structure.
- Customisation - The ability to customise the frame to meet architectural designs and preferences is also a mark of quality.
