what are the advantages of using a timber framed member over a steel framed member?

Answer 1

Not sure which type of construction you are referring to. off hand, here are three possible reasons:

Sometimes wood elements are attached to a steel frame structures to allow for attachment of the inside and/or outside finish skin. ie studding for Drywall on inside, girts for sheeting and siding or stucco, and/of purlins for roofing materials on outside

Sometimes timbers are added and used to mask the true nature of the structure. ie. often churches are now build with a steel frame and they add timbers for the character, charm and appearance.

Sometimes steel plates are used on timber framed structures to add strength to the joints [and because most correct timber frame joinery is becoming a lost art] the wood acts as the load bearing members and the steel transfers the loads.

Answer 2

Timber over 100mm square will hold its weight longer in a fire.
at 500 degrees the steel will often distort.
That is what dropped the twin towers.
Steel obviously has the advantage above three stories.

PS
buildings do settle and move, those that do not will eventually break up

Answer 3

I'd say none other than cosmetic
steel is superior & will flex just as wood will.... for a load bearing situation!!!!!


metal studs, however, carry the heat / cold right into the house via conduction - for studs wood is better!!!

Answer 4

Timber, being a natural material, has the ability to flex and move as a building settles - steel lacks this flexibility. If you are using green oak, it will harden over time, to the extent where it is as strong as steel.

Answer 5

Hey Roxy, if your building is settling you have a problem. Building are not supposed to settle. Your answer does not make much sense.