Three basic planning steps can help define the 'real cost' of LGSF, and lower the net cost of LGSF construction. Unfortunately, they are often overlooked and not included in the final results of value engineering studies. Here are suggestions for controlling the cost of LGSF:


1.Use Metallbau's "VE50+" value engineering review to help reduce costs by identifying cost saving measures from the beginning of design to the end of construction.

2. Define a consistent scope of work so that all bidders can be compared on an "apples to apples" basis of first, or initial costs. Estimating LGSF projects is more difficult than wood, and it is harder to compare prices across differing scope of work assumptions.

3. Include LGSF's life cycle cost savings that ameliorate the first cost of steel framing. Many newcomers to LGSF may not realize that these life-cycle savings are available. Therefore, they don't include them in any cost comparisons with wood framing. Click the link above to see LGSF savings.

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