Click the image below to see as a clearer PDF.
Kratos Light Gauge Steel (LGS) construction represents a revolutionary approach to modern building that harnesses the strength and versatility of cold-formed steel framing systems. Unlike traditional concrete masonry units (CMU), Kratos LGS utilizes precisely engineered steel components that are manufactured through cold-forming processes, creating lightweight yet incredibly strong structural elements.
This innovative construction method has transformed the building industry by offering superior performance characteristics compared to conventional CMU block construction. The system combines advanced engineering with sustainable materials to deliver buildings that are faster to construct, more durable, and significantly more cost-effective over their lifetime.
One of the most significant advantages of Kratos LGS construction is its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. While CMU blocks are notoriously heavy and require substantial foundation support, light gauge steel framing provides superior structural integrity at a fraction of the weight. This fundamental difference translates to reduced foundation requirements, lower transportation costs, and simplified construction logistics.
The lightweight nature of steel framing means that every component can be easily carried by hand, making construction more like an advanced carpentry project rather than heavy masonry work. This accessibility dramatically reduces the need for specialized heavy equipment and skilled masonry labor that CMU construction demands.
Kratos LGS construction offers superior fire resistance compared to traditional CMU block buildings. Steel’s non-combustible nature provides an inherent safety advantage, as it will not contribute to fire spread or produce toxic fumes when exposed to high temperatures. While CMU blocks can crack and lose structural integrity when exposed to extreme heat, properly designed LGS structures maintain their structural properties longer during fire events.
The fire resistance of LGS structures can be further enhanced through intelligent design and complementary materials, creating buildings that exceed traditional masonry fire ratings while maintaining lighter weight and faster construction timelines.
Construction speed represents a major competitive advantage for Kratos LGS over CMU construction. Traditional CMU building requires skilled masons, extensive mortar curing time, and weather-dependent construction schedules. In contrast, LGS construction can proceed rapidly regardless of weather conditions, with prefabricated components that assemble quickly and precisely.
The modular nature of LGS construction allows for factory-controlled manufacturing, ensuring consistent quality while dramatically reducing on-site construction time. This speed advantage translates directly to reduced labor costs and faster project completion, providing significant economic benefits to developers and homeowners alike.
CMU construction faces significant challenges with thermal bridging and insulation continuity. The concrete blocks themselves conduct heat and cold, creating thermal bridges that reduce overall building energy efficiency. Additionally, achieving proper insulation with CMU construction often requires additional framing systems, increasing costs and complexity.
Kratos LGS construction eliminates these thermal bridging issues through advanced framing techniques that maintain insulation continuity throughout the building envelope. The precise manufacturing tolerances of steel framing create tighter building assemblies with fewer air leaks, resulting in superior energy performance and lower utility costs for building occupants.
Traditional CMU construction limits architectural possibilities due to the standardized block dimensions and structural constraints of masonry construction. Designers must work within the rigid constraints of block coursing and limited spanning capabilities.
LGS construction offers unprecedented design flexibility, allowing architects to create complex geometries, large open spaces, and innovative building forms that would be impossible or prohibitively expensive with CMU construction. The high strength-to-weight ratio enables larger spans between structural supports, creating more open floor plans and architectural possibilities.
CMU construction can be susceptible to water infiltration through mortar joints and block cores, leading to potential moisture problems and providing pathways for pest intrusion. The porous nature of concrete blocks can also harbor moisture, leading to mold and mildew issues over time.
Kratos LGS construction provides superior resistance to pests and moisture infiltration. Steel framing does not provide food sources for termites or other wood-destroying insects, and properly designed LGS assemblies create more effective moisture barriers than traditional masonry construction.
The environmental advantages of Kratos LGS construction extend beyond the building’s operational phase. Steel is one of the most recycled materials in the world, with new steel containing significant recycled content. At the end of a building’s life cycle, steel framing can be completely recycled without quality degradation.
LGS construction also reduces waste during construction by up to 10 times compared to traditional building methods. The precise manufacturing process minimizes material waste, and the modular assembly reduces on-site waste generation. This efficiency translates to lower environmental impact and reduced disposal costs.
While CMU construction can be durable, it faces challenges from freeze-thaw cycling, mortar deterioration, and potential structural movement over time. Maintenance requirements for CMU buildings can include repointing mortar joints, addressing water infiltration, and managing thermal expansion issues.
Kratos LGS construction offers superior long-term durability with minimal maintenance requirements. Properly protected steel framing resists corrosion, does not shrink or expand significantly with temperature changes, and maintains structural integrity over decades of service. The reduced maintenance requirements translate to lower lifecycle costs and better long-term value for building owners.
The economic advantages of Kratos LGS construction become apparent when considering total project costs rather than just material costs. While the initial material costs may be comparable, the faster construction timeline, reduced labor requirements, and lower foundation costs create significant savings.
The reduced need for skilled masonry labor addresses current labor shortages in the construction industry while enabling more predictable project schedules. The lightweight nature of LGS construction reduces transportation costs and foundation requirements, further improving project economics.
Kratos LGS construction represents a fundamental advancement over traditional CMU block construction, offering superior performance in virtually every measurable category. From structural integrity and fire resistance to construction speed and environmental sustainability, LGS construction delivers benefits that align with modern building requirements and owner expectations.
The combination of strength, durability, design flexibility, and economic advantages makes Kratos LGS construction the clear choice for forward-thinking builders and developers. As the construction industry continues to evolve toward more efficient and sustainable building methods, LGS construction provides a proven path to achieving superior results while addressing the challenges of modern construction.
For projects requiring the highest levels of performance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness, Kratos LGS construction offers compelling advantages that traditional CMU construction simply cannot match. The future of construction lies in innovative systems like LGS that combine engineering excellence with practical construction benefits, making it the superior choice for today’s building challenges.