Why Builders Are Moving to Panelized Cold-Formed Steel Framing
Speed. Precision. Profit.
Cold-formed steel framing is changing the way developers, GCs, and architects build—delivering consistent quality, faster timelines, and greater ROI than stick-built wood ever could.
What Is Metal Framing?
Metal framing—also called cold-formed steel, light gauge steel, or steel stud framing—uses high-strength steel components in place of traditional wood studs.
It’s long been the standard in commercial construction, and now it’s reshaping residential and multifamily projects with greater durability, dimensional stability, and long-term cost control.
What Is Panelized Metal Framing?
Panelized metal framing goes one step further—wall, floor, and roof panels are pre-engineered and manufactured off-site.
Your framing arrives layout-ready, clearly labeled, and ready to install with zero jobsite fabrication needed.
Unlike modular construction, panelization doesn’t disrupt your permitting process. Cities and inspectors treat it just like traditional framing, so you build faster with no red tape.
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The Benefits of Panelized Metal Framing
Speed & Efficiency
Predictability & Quality
Cost Advantages
Durability & Safety
Sustainability
Why Metal Framing Is Better Than Wood
Wood has been the default for decades—but its downsides are clear:
Cold-formed steel offers:
Is Metal Framing More Expensive Than Wood?
Upfront steel costs may be higher—but total project cost is often lower with panelized framing.
Are There Any Downsides to Metal Framing?
Some assume steel is more complex, expensive, or difficult to use.
Here’s the truth:
· Higher material cost is offset by labor savings and project speed
· Specialized knowledge is included—we handle engineering, detailing, and BIM coordination
· Tools are standard and widely available on jobsites
When you're backed by Mainefactured Framing, the perceived downsides become competitive advantages.
HOW THE BUYING PROCESS WORKS
Send Architectural Drawings
Engineering & Detailing
Final Quote & Scope
Production & Delivery
Does Steel Framing Meet Building Codes?
Yes. Cold-formed steel framing is code-compliant with IBC, IRC, and AISI standards.
In fact, many municipalities prefer it due to its fire resistance and structural integrity.
How Does Permitting Work with Panelized Framing?
This is one of the key advantages:
Panelized framing is treated like traditional stick-built methods by inspectors and permitting offices.
You avoid the delays and re-approvals often seen in modular construction.
Panelized vs. Modular Construction
Panelized Framing: Pre-built panels that fit into standard jobsite workflows. Greater design freedom. No crane dependency.
Modular Construction: Full volumetric units. More permitting complexity. Higher up-front costs. Less flexibility.
For most projects, panelization delivers the perfect mix of speed, control, and scalability.
Can Metal Framing Be Used in Single-Family Homes?
Absolutely. In fact, repetitive designs in subdivisions or custom builds benefit the most.
Panelized steel framing reduces per-unit costs, speeds up timelines, and delivers consistent quality—giving early adopters a strong competitive edge.
Which Projects Benefit Most?
Multifamily developments
Single-family subdivisions
Student and senior housing
Hotels and hospitality
Storage facilities
Light commercial and mixed-use
If your project needs speed, precision, and repeatability—steel delivers.
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Cut framing time by up to 50% while reducing labor risk, material waste, and rework.
