Steel floor joists, wall studs and roof trusses

When purchasing a home, many buyers choose to build because of the ability to tailor options to suit their needs and tastes. From customizable floor plans to countertop selections to choice of cabinet knobs, a new house gives the buyer the ability to feel right at home from the start.

However, when constructing a new home, builders are realizing that beauty is much more than skin deep. A beautifully designed home is only as good as its ability to last. More and more builders are seeking methods and materials to improve the structural integrity of their homes and to be kinder to the environment.

For example, many buyers now have the choice of using roof trusses, floor joists and doors made from steel. Long the material of choice in commercial construction, steel is becoming more popular in residential home building because of its advantages over traditional wood products. Steel is strong, durable and requires little maintenance. It's resistant to fire, mold, termites and 100 percent recyclable.

One example of steel at work is in central Ohio where Centex Homes is offering an innovative new construction material: steel floor joists. Centex has partnered with Dietrich Metal Framing, a Worthington Industries Company, to use these floor joists in its Classic and Renaissance Series homes.

"We are offering steel floor joists in our homes because of the advantages they provide over traditional floor joists," said Bob Gardner of Centex. "Our customers will enjoy the virtual elimination of squeaks, shrinkage and potential imperfections of living in a new home the first year. After the first year, they'll live in the comfort of knowing that their home is supported with one of the strongest maintenance-free materials possible."

While many homebuyers don't really think about the floor joists in their homes, they should. Floor joists have the important job of supporting the weight of furniture and appliances, bearing the wear-and-tear of everyday family living and even serving as the ceiling of the basement or first floor.

With steel floor joists, homeowners will experience a quieter, more even floor. They will be less likely to experience nail pops in their ceiling drywall and the squeaking of floors and stairs. And they can enjoy more spacious rooms because steel has longer span capabilities. Finally, buyers can feel good that they are using a product that is made from recycled material.

People who are considering building a new home should ask their builders what materials are used for the things they cannot see. If those materials include steel floor joists, wall studs, or roof trusses, buyers can be assured of a product that will stand the test of time and make Mother Nature smile.