Cost estimates only: Any building, material or upgrade figures on this page are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Confirm current written costs, specifications and inclusions directly with your builder, supplier or relevant trade.
What is TRUECORE® Steel Framing?
TRUECORE® is a brand of cold-formed steel framing manufactured by BlueScope Steel in Australia. It is used to form the internal wall structure (studs, tracks, noggings) of residential buildings in place of traditional timber framing.
When a builder's inclusions list states "steel frame and truss" or "TRUECORE® wall framing," it means the internal wall structure of your home is built from cold-formed galvanised steel sections rather than sawn timber. This is increasingly the default for volume builders across South East Queensland, Victoria, and New South Wales.
Note
Steel Framing vs Timber Framing
The table below summarises key differences between TRUECORE® steel framing and traditional sawn timber framing. Neither is universally superior — the best choice depends on your climate zone, builder capability, and personal priorities.
| Factor | TRUECORE® Steel | Timber |
|---|---|---|
| Termite resistance | Inherently termite-resistant | Requires chemical treatment |
| Movement / warping | Dimensionally stable — no shrinkage | Can twist or bow over time |
| Weight | Lighter — easier to transport | Heavier |
| Thermal performance | Requires careful insulation design | Naturally less conductive |
| Workability on-site | Requires specific tools and trades | Familiar to all trades |
| Moisture | Does not absorb moisture | Can absorb moisture, may swell |
| Environmental | Recyclable steel product | Renewable resource if sustainably sourced |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 50-year product warranty against termite attack
- Dimensionally consistent — no warping, twisting or shrinkage
- Non-combustible wall framing material
- Lighter weight than timber for equivalent sections
- Precision manufacturing reduces on-site cutting waste
- Familiar to volume builder trades
Cons
- Can act as a thermal bridge if insulation is not correctly specified
- Cutting and drilling requires specific tools (aviation snips, carbide drill bits)
- Some trades less experienced with steel in custom build environments
- Acoustic performance may differ slightly from timber in some configurations
- Fixing heavy items (like wall-mounted TVs) needs appropriate steel fixings
Included or Upgrade?
Typically Included
TRUECORE® Steel Wall Framing
Included as standard by most major volume builders in QLD, VIC, and NSW. Timber framing is more common with custom and boutique builders.
Varies by Builder
Roof Trusses
Roof trusses are typically timber (Pryda or MiTek) even in steel-framed homes. Confirm what your builder specifies for trusses separately.
Watch Out
Common Builder Upgrades Related to Framing
Common Builder Upgrade
Ceiling Height Increase
Common Builder Upgrade
Internal Wall Acoustic Insulation
Termite Resistance: What TRUECORE® Covers
TRUECORE® steel framing is termite-resistant because termites cannot feed on steel. This is a genuine protection advantage over untreated timber framing, and BlueScope's 50-year warranty provides long-term peace of mind.
However, it's important to understand that this only covers the wall framing. Your home will still contain timber in roof trusses, joinery, skirting boards, door frames, flooring, and the subfloor. A comprehensive termite management system (chemical barrier or physical barrier) is still required and should be included in your contract.
Tip
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Downloadable PDF Guide
Coming SoonA printer-friendly version of this guide will be available soon.
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