What are the best build-up systems and finish options for steel frame houses and extensions?
Before selecting a wall build-up, it’s important to understand that these choices – including insulation methods and external finishes – will be made by you, your engineer, and your builder, based on the thermal performance (U-Values) you want to achieve and how you choose to achieve them. Shanette manufactures and installs the steel frame structure only.
All external finishes and wall build-up elements, including insulation layers and render, are completed on-site by your builder following frame installation.
When planning a steel frame house or extension, selecting the right wall build-up is key to ensuring thermal efficiency, structural integrity, and compliance with building regulations. External finish options may include brick, masonry, acrylic render, cladding and more — all applied by your builder to suit your chosen design.
You and your engineer can also choose from a range of insulation approaches. At Shanette, we offer two primary structural options to support this: Hybrid Frame and Warm Frame — each designed to meet different U-Value targets and project needs.
Note: U-Value measures how well a building element (like a wall or roof) retains heat — the lower the U-Value, the better the insulation.
.
Key Differences between Hybrid and Warm Frame
The primary distinction between Hybrid Frame and Warm Frame systems lies in the location of the insulation :
1. Hybrid Frame
2. Warm Frame
For the Hybrid Frame, insulation is installed both within the 100 mm steel frame (to be fitted on-site by others) and on the external face of the frame, which is factory-fitted. Common external insulation materials include foil-backed PIR boards, Rockwool mineral wool, or metal-faced insulated sandwich panels – each offering unique advantages depending on project needs.
For the Warm Frame, insulation is installed on the exterior face of the Shanette steel frame, creating a continuous, uninterupted thermal layer. We can priovide guidance on U-values for both Warm Frame and Hybrid Frame wall types to help your building achieve the best possible energy rating.
Cladding such as Burnt Larch and Composite Panels offer a versatile and efficient solution, combining insulation and exterior finish in a single layer. Ideal for fast-track construction.
Standing seam cladding combines modern aesthetics with exceptional durability. Ideal for both contemporary and traditional designs, it ensures long-lasting protection.
PIR insulation offers superior thermal performance, making it an excellent choice for energy-efficient buildings. It provides a seamless and effective barrier against heat loss.
Rendering provides a durable and attractive finish for steel frames, offering protection against the elements while enhancing visual appeal.
Options for Wall Build-Ups & Finishes (Builder Installed)
Our steel frames are compatible with a wide range of wall finishes, from masonry to cladding systems. Final finishes are completed by your builder, giving you the flexibility to choose the look and performance that best suits your project.
While masonry-based wall build-ups remain the most popular choice, a wide variety of alternative finishes are available to your builder to help achieve distinctive aesthetics and enhanced performance. These include seamless cladding for a sleek, modern look; external insulation systems with acrylic render to improve thermal efficiency and design flexibility; and burnt larch cladding for a more rustic charm. Our steel frames are engineered to support a broad range of finishes, allowing your builder to deliver a home or extension that reflects your vision and offers lasting architectural appeal.
