Light gauged steel(also known as cold-formed steel) trusses have gained a significant market share in recent years. They can be made from regular C-section studs or from other proprietary shapes. Cold-formed steel trusses provide the same span capabilities and design flexibilities as wood trusses, yet they are lighter and more dimensionally stable than wood trusses. Most cold-formed steel roof trusses are pre-engineered and prefabricated using computer software, which makes it possible to accommodate various roof configurations.
With greater emphasis on demanding architectural designs and the need for excellence in the roofing industry, light gauge steel (LGS) materials have become the preferred for engineers, architects, builders and developers alike. The roof structure consists of several trusses, which are symmetrically arranged to cover the building from one end to the other. Pitched roofs are mostly made of wood or metal materials depending on the builder’s choice.
BENEFITS OF LIGHT GAUGE STEEL OVER TIMBER PRODUCTS
DURABILITY
Steel is dimensionally stable and does not expand or contract with changes in moisture content. This is one advantage steel possesses which has made it the preferred roofing material. Steel will not warp, split, crack or creep when exposed to the elements. When materials like wood or brick are exposed to moisture, they swell. When dried, wood will warp, crack, chip, split and spall (see fig 1.2). Concrete and concrete block will shrink and form shrinkage cracks. Dimensional stability concerns are magnified when these types of materials are used in taller mid-rise buildings. Additionally, steel is resistant to termites and rodents, reason to use Light gauge steel for your roof.
HIGH STRENGTH-TO-WEIGHT RATIO
Light Gauge Steel (LGS) strength-to-weight ratio significantly exceeds that of wood or concrete. Being strong and relatively lightweight, light gauge steel systems reduce a building’s total load which, in turn, allows the owner to save costs beginning at the foundation. It’s unique lightness also makes for easy on-site handling.
FIRE RESISTANCE
It’s encouraging to use Light gauge steel for your roof because steel does not burn and will not contribute fuel to the spread of a fire, which will result in better fire resistance than wood or concrete. This makes it the preferred material for roof carcass design and construction. Since wood-framed roofs are highly susceptible to fire during and after the construction phase, it creates concern as wood is a known fire-fueling material.
DESIGN FLEXIBILITY
Because of its strength, steel can span longer lengths, offering larger open spaces and increased design flexibility without requiring intermediate columns or load bearing walls.