Why A Steel Prefab House Extension Is Better Than Traditional Bricks

Expanding your home is a major decision, and choosing the right construction method is crucial. Traditional brick-built extensions have been the norm for years, but modern homeowners are now turning to a steel prefab house extension as a superior alternative. Vergolus modular extensions offer a host of benefits, including greater internal space, superior strength, energy efficiency, and faster installation.

The History of Steel in UK Buildings

Steel has played a crucial role in the development of the UK’s built environment, transforming the way structures are designed and constructed. From its early adoption in the 19th century to its widespread use in modern construction, steel has become a fundamental material for buildings, bridges, and infrastructure.

Early Use of Steel in the UK (19th Century)

The use of steel in UK buildings dates back to the Industrial Revolution, when engineers and architects began experimenting with iron and steel as alternative materials to traditional masonry and timber. Before the 1850s, wrought iron and cast iron were the primary metals used in construction. However, these materials had limitations in strength and flexibility.

The Bessemer process, introduced in the mid-19th century, revolutionised steel production by making it more affordable and accessible. This innovation allowed steel to be used for structural frameworks, replacing cast iron in large-scale projects.

One of the earliest examples of steel construction in the UK was The Forth Bridge (1890) in Scotland, one of the world’s first large-scale steel structures. The success of this bridge demonstrated steel’s superior strength, durability, and resistance to environmental conditions.

The Rise of Steel-Framed Buildings (20th Century)

The early 20th century saw a significant shift towards steel-framed buildings in the UK, influenced by developments in the United States. The Ritz Hotel (1906) in London became one of the first buildings in the UK to feature a steel frame, allowing for taller, more open structures.

During the interwar period, steel construction gained popularity in commercial and industrial buildings. Advances in welding and fabrication techniques led to the widespread adoption of portal frames, a design innovation that made large-span buildings like warehouses, factories, and aircraft hangars more efficient.

Steel also played a key role in rebuilding efforts following World War II. Due to material shortages and the need for quick construction, steel-framed buildings provided a fast and cost-effective solution. This period saw the rise of prefabricated steel buildings, which were used for temporary housing and public buildings.

Modern Steel Construction (21st Century)

In the modern era, steel remains a dominant material in UK construction, used for everything from skyscrapers to residential extensions. Advances in galvanisation and corrosion-resistant coatings have improved the longevity of steel structures, making them more sustainable and cost-effective.

One of the major advantages of steel construction today is its ability to meet new energy efficiency regulations. Steel buildings can be designed with high-performance insulation, airtight construction, and reduced thermal bridging, helping to improve energy efficiency in compliance with Part L of the UK Building Regulations.

The Future of Steel in UK Construction

As the UK moves towards more sustainable building practices, steel remains at the forefront of innovation. New methods such as modular steel construction and light-gauge steel framing are making home extensions and new builds faster, stronger, and more efficient.

Vergolus is leading the way with prefabricated modular steel extensions, offering superior strength, energy efficiency, and space-saving benefits compared to traditional brick-built structures. With its long history and continuous advancements, steel remains the material of choice for the future of UK construction.

The Benefits of a Steel Prefab House Extension

More Internal Room Space

Traditional brick walls are thicker than necessary, reducing the available internal floor area. The Vergolus Modular System has a wall thickness of just 220mm, compared to 350mm for a traditional cavity wall. This results in up to 35% more internal space while maintaining the same thermal efficiency.

Strong Galvanised Steel – No Cracks Unlike Bricks

Vergolus modular extensions are made from galvanised steel, an exceptionally strong and durable material. Unlike bricks, which can crack and deteriorate over time, steel maintains its integrity for decades. Steel has been used in bridge construction for centuries, proving its reliability under extreme conditions.

Air-Tight Construction – Meets New Part L Legislation

With the UK Building Regulations updated in 2022, new homes and extensions must meet stricter U-value requirements to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions:

• Walls: 0.18 W/m²K
• Floors: 0.18 W/m²K
• Roofs: 0.15 W/m²K

Vergolus modular extensions comply with these updated Part L standards, ensuring excellent thermal performance and reduced energy costs.

Pre-Approved Building Control Compliance

Vergolus modular extensions are structurally tested and pre-approved by Building Control. This means fewer delays, smoother approvals, and faster installation compared to traditional brick builds.

25-Year Warranty for Peace of Mind

While traditional builders often provide little to no warranty, Vergolus offers a 25-year structural warranty on its modular extensions. This provides homeowners with long-term confidence and peace of mind.

Example: More Space with a Thinner Wall System

A typical Vergolus wall system consists of:

• 220mm Galvanised Steel Carcass with External coverings
• 180mm insulation
• 53mm insulated plasterboards

This combination achieves a U-value of 0.18 W/m²K, the same as a traditional cavity wall, but with a wall thickness that is 35% thinner. This means more usable floor space without compromising energy efficiency. Our floors and warm roof systems also meet the new U-value standards. A typical traditional cavity wall consists of:

• 350mm Brick, insulation, and blocks
• Some insulation
• 25mm Battens or Dot & Dab
• 53mm insulated plasterboards (based on using the same plasterboard)

Additional Benefits of Steel Prefab Extensions

Faster Construction Time

Traditional brick extensions can take several months to build, causing major disruption. Vergolus modular extensions are manufactured off-site and assembled in weeks, significantly reducing construction time.

Minimal Site Disruption

Since most of the work is done off-site, there is less noise, dust, and inconvenience for homeowners compared to traditional construction methods.

Customisable Designs

Our modular extensions can be tailored to suit your home’s style, with options for brick-slip cladding, render, and timber finishes to seamlessly blend with your existing property.

Strong Foundations – Built to Last

Vergolus modular extensions can be installed on ground screws, a robust and sustainable foundation system used for building bridges, oil rigs, and factories. These can extend up to 3m deep, providing incredible stability and durability.

FAQs: Prefab House Extensions Built With Steel

1. Is the Vergolus Modular Extension System strong? Yes! Steel has been used to build bridges and skyscrapers for centuries, proving its incredible strength and durability.
2. Why do you offer only a 25-year warranty? Traditional builders rarely offer any long-term warranty, but we provide a 25-year structural guarantee for your peace of mind.
3. Will the steel rust over time? No. Our steel is galvanised and fully protected, ensuring it is not exposed to external elements, preventing rust and corrosion.
4. Is a steel modular extension more energy-efficient than a brick build? Yes, our modular extensions meet the latest Part L Building Regulations and offer superior thermal efficiency compared to traditional brick extensions.
5. Can I get a custom design for my modular extension? Absolutely! We offer bespoke designs to match your home’s existing aesthetics, including brick-slip cladding, render, and other finishes.
6. How long does it take to install a prefab house extension? Our modular extensions can be installed in weeks, not months, significantly reducing construction time.
7. Are modular extensions cheaper than traditional brick builds? Yes! Modular extensions can be 20-30% more cost-effective due to their quicker build time and energy-efficient materials.
8. Can a modular extension be removed or relocated? Yes, modular extensions offer greater flexibility than traditional builds and can be relocated if required.
9. Do modular extensions comply with Building Regulations? Yes, Vergolus modular extensions are pre-approved by Building Control, ensuring full compliance with UK regulations.
10. Can I build a steel modular extension without planning permission? Yes, if your extension falls under Permitted Development Rights, you may not need planning permission. We can guide you through the process.

Choose a Steel Prefab House Extension for a Better Home

If you want a stronger, more energy-efficient, and spacious home extension, a steel prefab house extension is the best alternative to traditional bricks. With Vergolus modular extensions, you’ll benefit from:

• More internal space with thinner walls
• Stronger, crack-resistant galvanised steel
• Superior insulation & airtightness
• Faster construction & less disruption
• Pre-approved Building Control compliance
• 25-year structural warranty

Ready to Upgrade Your Home?

📩 Request an Information Pack Today 📞 Call Us at 0800 433 2353 or fill out our contact form for a Free Consultation 🏡 Transform Your Home with Vergolus Modular Extensions!