How to Convert to Metal Framing: A Guide for Developers and General Contractors

Introduction

As the construction landscape evolves, developers and general contractors are rethinking traditional methods in favor of more efficient, durable, and scalable solutions. One of the most transformative changes gaining traction is the shift from wood framing to cold-formed steel (CFS) framing. While the benefits are significant, making the switch requires thoughtful planning and strategic execution.

Mainefactured Framing has walked this journey ourselves. As former builders, we understand the hurdles of converting from wood to steel firsthand—and we know just how worthwhile the transition is. We’ve developed this guide to help you navigate the change with clarity, confidence, and the kind of partnership we wished we had when we made the leap.

Why Switch to Metal Framing?

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The advantages of CFS framing go beyond durability and design. Here are some of the most compelling reasons real estate developers and general contractors are embracing steel:

• Durability: Steel does not rot, warp, or attract pests like termites.
• Fire Resistance: Being non-combustible, it reduces fire risk and lowers insurance premiums.
• Speed: Panelized systems allow for faster assembly with smaller crews.
• Precision: Manufactured in controlled environments, steel panels reduce on-site errors and waste.
• Sustainability: Steel is fully recyclable, aligning with ESG and LEED goals.
• Cost Predictability: Steel prices can be hedged and material stockpiled without degradation.

At Mainefactured Framing, we bring the added benefit of understanding your world—because we came from it. We combine engineering expertise with practical field knowledge to make this transition not just possible, but advantageous.

Step 1: Begin with Design and Engineering

Unlike wood, metal framing isn’t something you can value-engineer at the last minute. The design and structural engineering must be tailored specifically for steel. That means rethinking span tables, load paths, bracing requirements, and even architectural layout to align with steel's strengths.

It’s essential to engage with your framing partner and engineering team early in the process. CFS framing involves a different set of structural dynamics, and early coordination allows for smoother integration across trades. Mainefactured Framing supports this phase with design consultations, stamped structural drawings, and layout optimization—simplifying the complexity so your team can stay focused on the bigger picture.

Step 2: Understand the Pre-Planning Investment

One of the most overlooked differences between wood and metal framing is the quoting and planning process. With wood, you often get material quotes with little upfront detail. Steel is different.

Because cold-formed steel panels are manufactured offsite, suppliers typically require preliminary engineering work to provide an accurate quote. This sometimes includes compensation for the engineering effort—a cost many developers don’t anticipate.

This shift means developers and GCs must not just seek a vendor, but a trusted partner who understands the stakes. Mainefactured Framing minimizes the barrier to entry by offering tiered onboarding and early-stage design services that help developers get the answers they need with minimal upfront risk. We focus on building win-win partnerships, because we know that early collaboration can dramatically swing project costs and risks in your favor.

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Step 3: Train Your Teams for On-Site Assembly

Assembling panelized steel framing is simpler, faster, and cleaner than traditional stick-built wood framing—but it’s still new to most crews.

There is an initial learning curve, especially for installers used to nail guns and wood cuts. With metal framing, screw guns, layout accuracy, and sequencing become key. Once the team adjusts, the efficiency gains are substantial.

Mainefactured Framing supports this process by training your teams directly, ensuring your crew is confident, safe, and effective. For builders and GCs, this is an opportunity to become first movers in a rapidly growing segment and gain a lasting competitive edge.

Step 4: Budget with the Full Picture in Mind

Cold-formed steel may appear more expensive on a material line-item basis, but that’s only one part of the equation. The true savings come in labor, speed, reduced delays, and fewer errors.

When you consider shorter project timelines, less scrap, lower insurance costs, and minimal callbacks, the value of steel becomes clear. And as CFS framing becomes more mainstream, those who establish early partnerships and gain experience will lead the field.

Mainefactured Framing offers clear, side-by-side comparisons between wood and steel—empowering you to make strategic decisions with long-term ROI in mind.

Step 5: Align on Project Timeline and Sequence

Switching to metal framing shifts more of the effort to the front end of your project. Planning, engineering, and coordination all move up the schedule, while the actual construction phase is faster and more predictable.

This requires developers and contractors to adopt a proactive mindset: decisions must be made earlier, but the payoff is fewer surprises, tighter coordination, and more controlled costs.

We guide you through this timeline shift, helping you make decisions earlier without rushing or guessing. Our clients find that once they experience this smoother, more stable project cadence, they never want to go back.

What Projects Benefit Most from Metal Framing?

Cold-formed steel is ideal for:

• Residential subdivisions with repetitive design
• Multifamily and mixed-use buildings
• Townhome developments and infill housing
• Light commercial buildings and retail shells
• Build-to-rent and student housing communities
• Projects in fire-prone, humid, or termite-heavy regions

If your project is repeatable, fast-paced, or design-sensitive, metal framing will likely provide measurable benefits. Our systems are designed for scalability and repeatability, helping developers and GCs bring predictability to their portfolios.

Final Thoughts: The Value of a True Partner

Converting to metal framing isn’t just about changing materials—it’s about transforming how your team builds.

At Mainefactured Framing, we don’t just fabricate steel panels. We walk alongside you from concept through completion, helping you:

• Design smarter with steel from day one
• Navigate permitting, engineering, and layout adjustments
• Educate your teams for smoother installations
• Plan and quote projects accurately and efficiently
• Build faster, cleaner, and with fewer surprises

We believe the future of construction is lighter, stronger, and more efficient. And we’re here to make sure you lead that future, not follow it.

Ready to make the switch? Let’s build it together.