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Throughout the country, renting has become a highly desirable alternative to traditional homeownership. But rather than apartments or condominiums, the construction industry is experiencing a rise in the development of build-to-rent communities. As the demand for this sector continues to rise, builders are integrating prefabricated cold-formed steel (CFS) framing components to enhance the efficiency of constructing these developments.
Builders are integrating prefabricated cold-formed steel (CFS) framing components to enhance the efficiency of constructing build-to-rent communities.
What is Build to Rent?
BTR homes are constructed for the purpose of long-term rentals. Whereas typical communities are developed with prospective buyers in mind, BTR communities are created for long-term tenants. This can factor into the home and property designs and the overall set-up of the community.
Unlike the traditional model of renting individual units within existing properties, BTR developments are designed as cohesive communities that foster a sense of belonging among residents.
Build-to-rent developments are designed as cohesive communities that foster a sense of belonging among residents.
Some of the most common build-to-rent home types include:
- Single-family homes
- Duplexes
- Row homes
- Small lot homes
In 2022, a record 14,500 BTR homes were constructed. As of May 2023, 44,700 BTR homes are under construction — triple the number of new homes completed in 2022. Phoenix, Dallas and Detroit are the top three metros that added the most single-family homes for rent in the last five years.
To enhance the speed and efficiency of build-to-rent developments, prefabricated cold-formed steel (CFS) components are manufactured in a controlled factory environment.
Innovative Construction Methods
To enhance the efficiency, standard and sustainability of BTR developments, the integration of innovative construction methods is crucial. According to SFIA member FRAMECAD, one method gaining prominence is the use of prefabricated CFS building components. These advanced components are designed, manufactured and assembled off-site offering a range of benefits, including:
- Speed and Efficiency – CFS significantly reduces construction timelines compared to traditional onsite methods. The simultaneous production of components with site preparation allows for streamlined construction, enabling developers to deliver rental units to the market quickly and efficiently
- Enhanced Quality Control – the controlled factory environment in which prefabricated components are manufactured ensures consistent standards and precision. Utilizing advanced technology and automation minimizes human errors, resulting in superior construction standards and improved durability of BTF developments
- Cost Savings and Sustainability – although the upfront costs of prefabricated components may be marginally higher, they offer long-term cost savings. The accelerated construction process reduces on-site labor requirements, resulting in significant cost reductions that are associated with extended construction periods. Moreover, prefabrication minimizes material waste and supports sustainable construction practices
- Design Flexibility and Adaptability – prefabricated components provide developers with design flexibility, allowing for customization and adaptation to meet specific project requirements. This adaptability ensures that BTR developments can cater to diverse tenant needs, optimize living spaces and create unique architectural designs that align with market demands.
- Integration of Technology – prefabrication aligns well with the integration of advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling and Computer-Aided Design. These technologies enable seamless coordination, improve communication among stakeholders, and streamline the overall construction process.
Free eBook: The Future of Residential Construction
CFS framing is renowned for its exceptional structural integrity. The accuracy and precision offered by steel components ensure that every piece aligns perfectly, leaving no room for errors or weaknesses.
Unlike traditional wood framing, steel does not warp, twist or shrink, and is non-porous, making it resistant to common issues like settling and rot. The result is a home that remains solid and stable for generations to come, reducing the need for extensive maintenance and repairs.
In the eBook, Steel Framing: The Future of Residential Construction, FRAMECAD explores the applications and methodologies of steel framing in the residential sector through practical examples.
Future of Housing Market
By embracing the benefits of BTR developments and leveraging the advancements offered by companies like FRAMECAD, developers can create exceptional rental communities that meet the expectations of their tenants.
The future of the U.S. rental housing market lies in the fusion of tenant-centric design, professional management, innovative construction methods and technological advancements.
The BTR movement, supported by the integration of prefabrication using steel framing, is poised to shape the rental housing landscape for years to come.
Additional Resources
- FRAMECAD Launches Residential Steel Framing Customer Service Center
- Frame Up Now, Empowered by FRAMECAD, Says Cold-Formed Steel Will Replace Wood in 15 Years
- FRAMECAD Launches ‘Build It Better’ Podcast with Host Robert Johnson