Steel has become an increasingly popular trend for today’s economically-wise and eco-friendly homebuyers. Particularly for those interested in building their dream homes from the ground up. It may be hard to fathom the idea of steel housing or using steel building materials because when you think of steel structures like warehouses, storage units, and industrial facilities. Yet, it is increasingly becoming a safer, more secure, and efficient option for the homeowners of today. Here’s why:
Accommodating Designs that Feel Just Like Home
As steel is becoming a more popular building material used in home construction, consumers can see the flexibility and versatility of the design capabilities. Whether opting for a pre-fabricated steel home or simply using steel as a primary material throughout the homebuilding process, homeowners can work with housing plan experts and design teams like Monster House Plans to put together the ideal house from the exterior to the floor plan and interior design. What they find is that whether they’re interested in a traditional home or a more modern and unique layout, it can be accomplished.
Environmentally Friendly
For homebuyers interested in reducing their carbon footprint, using more sustainable materials like steel in the framing, exterior, and/or interior of their home build helps them to do just that. Steel is not only highly recyclable, which essentially reduces the cost of construction materials for homeowners. It’s durability also makes it capable of withstanding thicker insulation which helps to reduce heat loss and save money.
Its environmental resistance is another reason steel building materials are becoming a popular option for hopeful homeowners. Since steel does not absorb moisture, it does not allow mold growth to develop and doesn’t decay. Steel’s durability also makes it resistant to extreme weather conditions like snowstorms, floods, and even earthquakes. Having peace of mind that even in unforeseen circumstances, your home can withstand the storm is a relief, particularly to those who live in areas where heavy flooding and earthquakes tend to occur. A steel home can essentially save you money on homeowners and flood insurance.
Extremely Safe
A home is supposed to be safe heaven. When you use steel construction materials to build your home, you’re investing in an extra layer of safety. The steel framing is installed directly into the ground. Should lightning ever strike near the home the steel can redirect the currents into the ground (safely) ensuring you and your property remain safe. A steel-framed house will also redirect electrical leaks that can occur from faulty or outdated wiring in the home. Lastly, it’s non-combustible meaning it won’t add fuel to the flame should the home catch fire. This, of course, is another plus for individuals looking to get a discount on their homeowner’s insurance.
Quick Guide to Building Your Home
If you’re interested in having a home built using steel framing or building materials here is a general idea of the steps you want to take.
Get Your Finances in Order – Like purchasing any home, you’ll need to have a good credit background. So, start by reviewing your credit report to see if there’s anything that needs to be cleaned up. Ideally, you want to have a 650 or higher with a record of good payment history, few delinquent accounts, and a debt to income ratio under 30%.
Get Pre-Approved – The next step is to find a mortgage servicer willing to pre-approve you for a mortgage. Instead of a traditional mortgage, however, you’ll need to look for a land and home construction offer. To cover the cost of the home builders as well.
Search for Builders – Once you’ve gotten a pre-approval, you’re ready to begin looking for the right home builders. Try to find a company that provides full-service so you can work with one organization until the job is complete.
Look for Land – You have a builder, now you’re ready to look at available lots in the area you’re most interested in having your home built.
Choose a Floor Plan and Design Elements – Here is the fun part. Actually working on the layout and design of your new home. You will work with the builders and their design team to come up with an exterior and interior that best suits your needs.
Get Funding and Permits – Last on the list of things to do is to take the building contracts to the bank to receive final approval for the construction loan. Then, the paperwork is submitted for the necessary building permits before construction can begin.
With all the above-mentioned benefits, it’s no wonder that the demands for steel are projected to double by next year. For those interested in designing a home using steel as the main building material, use the process above to get started.
