Understanding the Real Cost of Steel House Frames

When planning a new build, whether residential or commercial, one of the first questions people ask is: “How much does a steel frame cost?” It’s a fair question — cost plays a huge part in construction decisions. But according to Gavin Sharp, Director of Australian Steel Framing, the better question is: “What kind of value does a steel frame deliver over its lifetime?”

At Broadworth Modular, we’ve seen first-hand how choosing the right frame material impacts not just the upfront price of a project, but its long-term performance, maintenance, and sustainability. Here, Gerard Goldsmith (Director of Broadworth Modular) and Gavin Sharp share their insights on what really goes into the cost of a steel frame — and why it often pays off in more ways than one.

Upfront Costs vs Long-Term Value

Steel framing can sometimes appear slightly higher in upfront cost compared to timber. However, when you look beyond the initial purchase, the equation quickly changes.

“Steel is straight, strong, and made to last,” Gavin Sharp explains. “You’re not dealing with warping, termite damage, or structural shrinkage, which means fewer call-backs and a better-quality finish.”

That reliability is a key reason modular builders like Broadworth choose steel. “For us, it’s about precision and longevity,” adds Gerard Goldsmith. “Every Broadworth Modular project is designed to meet strict quality and compliance standards, and steel frames make that easier to achieve.”

For a detailed breakdown of steel framing costs, you can visit How Much Do Steel House Frames Cost? on the Australian Steel Framing blog.

The Factors That Influence Cost

There’s no one-size-fits-all price tag for a steel frame. The final cost depends on several factors:

• Design Complexity: Multi-level builds, unique architectural elements, and custom spans may require additional steel components or engineering.

• Frame Thickness and Type: Light gauge steel (like TRUECORE® steel) is standard for most homes, but heavier gauges might be used for large commercial projects.

• Location and Site Conditions: Wind zones, coastal exposure, and bushfire ratings can all affect the materials specified.

• Project Scale: Larger projects benefit from efficiencies in fabrication and installation that can offset costs.

Gavin Sharp explains that Australian Steel Framing uses state-of-the-art roll-forming technology to deliver precision-engineered frames made to measure. “Our systems are automated from design to fabrication, which keeps waste low and ensures every section fits perfectly on site,” he says.

Why Steel Saves Money Over Time

When evaluating cost, it’s essential to consider the lifetime performance of the structure.

“Steel is virtually maintenance-free,” says Gerard. “It doesn’t warp, rot, or attract termites, and it holds its shape for decades. That’s especially important for modular projects that need to maintain structural integrity during transport and installation.”

From a financial standpoint, that means:

• Lower maintenance and repair costs

• No termite treatments or replacements

• Fewer delays due to material defects

• Improved resale value thanks to durability

Steel also contributes to better energy efficiency when used with advanced insulation systems. You can read more about this in ASF’s guide on How to Get a 7-Star Energy Rating for Your Home.

Cost Transparency and Consistency

Unlike timber, which can fluctuate in price due to availability and weather conditions, steel pricing remains far more stable. Australian-made TRUECORE® steel is manufactured to consistent quality standards and supply chains, ensuring project pricing stays predictable.

“Builders can plan more confidently with steel,” Gavin explains. “It eliminates the uncertainty of material shortages and helps keep projects on schedule — which saves money in itself.”

The Broader Value of Steel

The value of steel framing goes beyond cost alone. It supports safer, more sustainable, and more efficient construction.

• Sustainability: Steel is 100% recyclable and produces minimal site waste.

• Safety: It’s non-combustible, making it ideal for high fire-risk zones.

• Precision: Laser-cut accuracy ensures perfect fits and faster installation times.

As Gavin puts it, “When you factor in the reduced maintenance, the speed of construction, and the long-term strength, steel frames often end up being the most cost-effective option — not the most expensive.”

The Bottom Line

Steel-framed construction delivers outstanding long-term value that goes far beyond initial price. While it’s true that costs vary by project, the consistency, strength, and low maintenance of steel make it a smart investment for both residential and commercial builds.

For modular construction, steel framing is an ideal fit — its precision engineering and dimensional stability ensure every module is square, true, and ready to connect seamlessly on site. The lightweight yet high-strength properties of steel also make transport and installation safer, faster, and more efficient.

At Broadworth Modular, Gerard Goldsmith and the team continue to partner with Australian Steel Framing to deliver modular solutions that are strong, efficient, and built for the future.

To learn more about pricing, performance, and materials, visit ASF’s full article: How Much Do Steel House Frames Cost?.

About the Authors

This article is a collaboration between Gerard Goldsmith, Director of Broadworth Modular, and Gavin Sharp, Director of Australian Steel Framing, combining modular building expertise with advanced steel engineering insight.

Broadworth Modular is an Australian-owned construction company specialising in residential modular homes, commercial modular buildings, and wholesale modular solutions for builders and developers. Based in the Hunter Region, the Broadworth team designs and delivers high-quality, energy-efficient modular buildings that meet the unique needs of every project — from family homes and education facilities to offices and industrial spaces.

With a commitment to precision, innovation, and sustainability, Broadworth Modular works closely with trusted partners like Australian Steel Framing to create projects that are as strong and durable as they are efficient and cost-effective. You can explore some of Broadworth’s recent work on their Projects page.

Interested in building smarter with modular design and steel framing? Contact the Broadworth team today to discuss your next residential or commercial project.