6.10 Light steel framed walls and floors

Also see:

2.1

6.10.1 Compliance

LSF structures shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

LSF structures (ie, walls, roofs and floors) that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

LSF structures may be:

  • structurally independent (primary) and used to form whole buildings, additional storeys, annexes, extensions, penthouses, etc
  • infill walls (secondary), or
  • bespoke facades (where support may be required from other structural elements).

Construction should be ‘warm frame’ or ‘hybrid’ construction, with sufficient insulation outside the steel envelope to ensure that condensation does not occur within the depth of the light steel members.

Stud partitions are considered in Chapter 6.3 ‘Internal walls’. LSF systems that do not comply with the principles of this chapter should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.

Where the components of the LSF cannot be inspected on site (eg closed panels or fitted out volumetric or modular units) the system should be treated as a proprietary building system under Technical Requirement R3 and subject to assessment by an appropriate independent technical approvals authority or be assessed under the NHBC Accepts service – www.nhbc.co.uk/accepts.

Last updated: 2nd January 2024

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