Announcements
Steel Framing Volume Drops 11% in 2Q 2020 vs. 1Q 2020
In the midst of a historic disruption to the economy caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the cold-formed steel framing industry reports an 11 percent decline in manufacturing volume for the second quarter of 2020, and an 8 percent decline for the first six months of 2020 compared with the first half of 2019. Total tons manufactured in 2Q 2020 were 248,546, according to the latest Quarterly Market Data Report released by the Steel Framing Industry Association (SFIA). Volume of Structural products manufactured in the second quarter fell 8 percent to 125,090 tons versus the first quarter of the year, while manufacturing of Nonstructural products dropped 13 percent in the second quarter.
Structural products are typically used for load bearing applications, such as exterior walls, lateral force resisting systems, floors and roofs. Applications for Nonstructural products generally include framing for non-load bearing walls, soffits, and backing for architectural finishes.
The data in the SFIA Market Data Report is collected through an industry-wide survey. A complete publication containing data and analysis, including results of a survey of market sentiment, is available at this Link.
SFIA Contractors Achieve Certification Status
The SFIA Contractor Certification, introduced in March is off to a strong start with the first ttwo companies awarded certification for both Nonstructural and Structural framing and 20 additional companies currently in the certification process. This new certification, which promotes best practices and continuous improvement, will be promoted to general contractors and owners looking for contractors with CFS expertise, high levels of training, and quality assurance.
A Fire Service Professional’s View
The increased use of wood framing in mid-rise buildings has been accompanied by a growing incidence of major fires that have destroyed these combustible structures both during construction
SFIA Technical Guide
Technical Guide for Cold‐Formed Steel Framing Products, provides with a comprehensive tool for designing with cold‐formed steel framing members..