LSTK (light steel thin-walled structures)

LSTK is an abbreviation that stands for lightweight steel thin-walled structures. This is a modern technology for a prefabricated building. In essence, this format resembles a children's construction set, having a lightweight steel frame part. LSTK structures are assembled from thin and high-strength sheets of zinc steel, filling the gaps with insulation. The installation of structures made of lightweight metal structures is carried out by RBC ALBA LLC - you can order this service directly through the website.

Where are lightweight thin-walled steel structures used?

This technology of prefabricated structures is extremely popular in modern construction due to its lightness. It is best suited for:

• construction of private houses from LSTK and summer cottages;
• construction of attics (residential attics);
• construction of warehouses, hangars, pavilions from LSTK, garages and other outbuildings;
• construction of commercial buildings from LSTK and office premises.

At the same time, it is worth noting the most important advantages and disadvantages of LSTK technology. The advantages include the speed of construction, since the objects are "assembled" in a few weeks like a large designer. The lightness of the structure involves the use of an inexpensive foundation. Construction of structures from LSTK is cheaper compared to the construction of objects from brick or concrete. It is also noted for its extraordinary durability - steel is not afraid of mold, weather influences, pests and does not shrink.

The disadvantages include only thermal conductivity, which requires good insulation of the walls. In addition, additional soundproofing materials will also be needed.

Features of manufacturing LSTK structures

The basis of the technology is steel profiles with a thickness of 0.7 to 3 mm. They are manufactured by cold forming - steel plates are bent without heating. To protect the metal from rust, the material is covered with a layer of zinc.

An analogue of production can be considered a classic construction stapler. Thin steel is connected with screws or rivets, forming a strong metal frame of the building. The technology itself makes it possible to quickly assemble ready-made LSTK frames of buildings on bolts without the use of welding.

The main stages of LSTK production are as follows:

LSTK design. An accurate computer 3D model of the future steel frame of the house is created based on drawings.

• Profiling. A steel blank in the form of a strip passes through a special machine. Thanks to this, the metal gets the appropriate shape.
• Perforation. Holes for bolts and thermal breaks are drilled in a thin-walled metal structure.
• Marking and packaging: Parts are marked according to the drawings and packed in sets prepared for construction.
• Factory production ensures the ideal geometry of all parts and accurate calculation of LSTK structures.

Installation of LSTK structures: main stages of work

At the beginning of the installation of steel frame structures, the foundation is prepared. The site is cleared of debris, after which the boundaries of the future structure are marked. The surface under the foundation must be carefully leveled. The process then involves the following:

• Assembling wall panels and ceilings

LSTK profiles are laid out on a flat area according to the markings. The frame part and the ceilings are connected with screws or bolts.

• Frame installation

At this stage, the walls are installed. For this, the finished panels are fixed to the foundation and temporarily fixed. Next, roof beams or rafter trusses are mounted. Finally, all nodes are tightly tightened.

• Roofing work

Galvanized LSTK profiles are fixed in the upper part of the trusses for arranging the roof. Next, the roofing material chosen by the customer is laid.

• Insulation and sheathing is the final stage. Wind protection and vapor barrier are laid on the walls. These elements provide protection from moisture and wind. The frame of the LSTK thermal profile is also filled with insulation - most often mineral wool is used for this. The walls are sheathed on the outside and inside with sheet materials such as DSP or plasterboard.