SFS is usually used as a secondary structural steel framing system to create the inner leaf of an external building facade. The framework can then be insulated and clad both sides with a multitude of other products. It should be noted that it is also possible to use  SFS to form the primpary strctural farme for low rise buildings.

Framework is designed on a project specific basis and the suppliers of the SFS will normally undretake this work subject to an order being placed.

Proform systems are recommended installation contractor for systems supplied by both “Metsec” & “Kingspan”.

The system is supplied in a component format and is made up up of C shaped studs and U shaped tracks for in-situ assembly / installation on site using mechanical fixings. This can be an advantage where site access and/or the use of a crane is restrict. The “C” and “U” sections can be supplied to site pre-cut to length or in standard lengths cut to suit on site.

To speed up the procurement process and to reduce the construction program we have the inhouse capability to off-site assemble key intracate facade elements such as window details (see slideshow images below).

Facade framework can be split into two main types “Infill” or “Oversale”

• Infill Systems are typically supported at the slab edge between hot-rolled steel or concrete. This allows insulation and external finishes to be installed continuously outside the main structural frame if the correct tolerance scheme is adopted. The system is suitable for both low and high-rise buildings.
• Oversail Systems are fitted outside the line of the structural frame using support cleats at each floor level with connections designed to allow slab deflection. It is particularly suited to situations where cladding materials are sensitive to differing movement of the main structural building frame. Adequate base support must be provided to accommodate vertical loading.

Both systems above achieve early weather protection of the building allowing other internal fitting trades to work inside the building envelope and removing external cladding from the critical path. Furthermore, these systems also provide lateral support to most cladding materials including masonary, profiled metal sheets, proprietary panels, insulated render systems, terracotta and timber rain screen systems.

 SFS Gallery 1 – Lower Loveday Street, Birmingham – Student Accommodation Block;

Steel Framing System:-

The SFS on this project was used to construct the entire upper floor and roof. Interestingly this method of construction was chosen to reduce the overall weight of the building on it foundations. The SFS walls where over clad with cement boards, 70mm rigid insulation board, breathable membrane, counter battened and finally finished with Trespa Cladding Panels. The cavity of the in the SFS framework wall was filled with 100mm Rockwool insulation batts. The internal perimeter face of the SFS was lined with two skins of plasterboard. The roof was covered with a layer of plywood, 150mm of  rigid insulation and then finally finished off with a waterproof  membrane installed by a specialist roofing contractor.

 SFS Gallery 2 – No. 1 Nottingham Science Park - The SFS on this project is being used to infill between the concrete floor slabs to form the external envelope / facade  structure to the building. The SFS walls where over clad with cement boards, 70mm rigid insulation board, breathable membrane, counter battened and finally finished with Trespa Cladding Panels. The cavity of the in the SFS framework was filled with 100mm Rockwool insulation batts. The internal perimeter face of the SFS was lined with two skins of plasterboard.