Construction Facts

The process of creating an offsite-built steel-frame home begins with the customer choosing a desired house type and style. A structural engineer then designs all components using computer software. The steel members are then cut to size, pre-drilled and pre-welded at the factory.

These are the usual steps of building the offsite-built steel-frame home:

Step 1: Anchor bolts are typically provided through a foundation contractor. It is essential that the foundation be set up and poured correctly so that the anchor bolts are in the correct positions.

Step 2: The primary framing consists of the beam frames. These members are the first pieces that will be bolted together and fastened to the foundation. Once a few of these frames are up, the secondary framing can be bolted to the primary framing.

Step 3: The secondary framing consists of the girts and purlins. These members run the length of the building and provide the strength behind the wall and roof sheeting. Once all the secondary framing is in place, the wall and roof sheeting can then be fastened.

Step 4: Self drilling fasteners are used to attach the roof and wall panels. As the panels are installed, weather stripping is also installed which will keep the building leak free.

Step 5: Once all the panels are attached, trim and accessories are installed. The trim finishes off the building and makes it weather tight. Accessories, including doors, windows and vents, are installed last.