Multi-Storey Buildings Built40–60% Faster Than RCC.

Light Gauge Steel Framing uses cold-formed, high-tensile steel sections — typically 0.55 mm to 2.0 mm in thickness — as the primary structural frame of a building. The sections are roll-formed in a factory to precise dimensions, then assembled on site using screws, bolts, and engineered connectors. LGSF is widely used for mid-rise residential and commercial buildings globally and is increasingly adopted in India as an alternative to conventional RCC construction.

With proper structural engineering, LGSF buildings can reach up to G+7 in India. G+1 to G+5 is the most common range. Buildings above G+5 require detailed structural analysis, specific section sizing, and may incorporate a hybrid approach with RCC core walls for lateral stability. Our structural engineering team evaluates each project and advises the optimal configuration based on loads, site conditions, and building use.

Yes. LGSF construction is governed by IS 801:1975 (Code of Practice for Cold-Formed Steel Structures) and the National Building Code 2016. Several state governments — including Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan — have issued approval guidelines for LGSF structures. Municipal corporations and town planning authorities accept structural drawings stamped by a licensed structural engineer for LGSF buildings.

For structures up to G+5, the structural frame cost per sq ft in LGSF is typically comparable to or slightly higher than RCC frame cost. However, total project cost usually comes out 5–15% lower when foundation savings, faster construction (reduced finance costs), no formwork or shuttering, and earlier revenue from faster occupancy are factored in. For housing developers and institutions with tight timelines, the economic case is strongly in favour of LGSF.

Bare steel sections have a relatively low fire rating, but LGSF walls are always finished with sheathing boards. Two layers of 12.5 mm fire-rated gypsum board on both faces of a stud wall achieves 2-hour fire rating, meeting NBC requirements for most occupancy types. Our designs specify fire rating based on the building's occupancy classification and local authority requirements.

LGSF structures have performed well in earthquake events globally. The ductile, energy-absorbing connections and the inherent flexibility of the frame prevent brittle failure modes common in unreinforced masonry. Structural sheathing — oriented strand board (OSB) or cement board — adds significant lateral stiffness and shear resistance. Poojary Prefab designs all LGSF structures to the applicable seismic zone per IS 1893, up to Zone IV.

LGSF walls are filled with mineral wool or EPS insulation between studs, providing good thermal performance — typically meeting NBC energy efficiency norms for Indian climatic zones. Acoustic performance depends on sheathing and infill specification: a party wall with mineral wool infill and double gypsum board sheathing achieves STC 45–55 dB, which is acceptable for residential and hotel applications. Acoustic specifications are confirmed in the design stage.

A G+2 residential building that would take 14–18 months in RCC typically takes 6–9 months with LGSF from foundation completion to handover. The time saving comes from parallel workflows: sections are being fabricated while foundations are constructed, and individual floors can be enclosed and fitted out while upper floors are being framed. No curing time means the construction schedule is weather-independent (except for safety considerations).

We supply the complete LGSF structural package including engineered drawings, factory-fabricated sections, and installation. Foundation design and construction is typically coordinated with the client's local civil contractor, though we can advise on foundation loads and specifications. For complete turnkey delivery including foundations, MEP, and finishes, we work with a panel of trusted civil contractors and MEP consultants.

LGSF frames accept virtually any external cladding system: fibre cement boards, brick veneer, glass facades, composite panels, or plastered finishes over cement board sheathing. Internally, gypsum board provides a smooth, paintable finish that is standard for offices and hospitals. For residential projects, tile, wood, and textured finishes are all compatible. Our design team works with your architect to coordinate the cladding system with the structural frame from day one.