For architects and builders, the Stran-Steel home exemplified a triumph in the use of an innovative building material that, until now, had only been used for skyscrapers and commercial buildings. The Stran-Steel Corporation produced a lightweight steel beam that was more flexible than wood, lighter and twice as strong. The frame of the home consisted of these beams in a network of interlocking joints. Additionally, a key to the steel success as a building material was the use of a specially designed nail that would penetrate the girders to hold wallboard on both the inside and outside of the structure. The result was a sturdy and well insulated building that would withstand even the most severe weather and natural disasters. More interestingly is the outer covering that was created by the corporation.

 

To provide a fireproof surface, eight by two feet sheets of three inch thick baked iron enamel were used to cover the outside. The baked surface of the material gave the illusion of brick and also helped to insulate the home. Of course, such an innovative and futuristic building material could only work on an art deco structure in the 1930's. The Stran-Steel House is a prime example of the deco influence on the artists and contractors of the day. Incorporating streamlined lines, elegance and technology is a trademark of the 1933 World's Fair. Many of the buildings that housed exhibits or concert halls personified the more cubist Bauhaus influence.

My father worked for National Steel and this division of Stran Steel for over 30 years.  While in high school (and later while working my way through college), I worked at the Terre Haute, Indiana Stran Steel plant where there was a sample building out in the yard.  It is truly amazing how long it has taken for residential steel construction to come to be more prevalent.  Think of the natural resources wasted and the amount of  steel (old cars etc.) that could have been re-utilized.

Only now, after almost 70 years we are seeing steel used in residential home construction.  For more information read the article on the Emerging Use of Steel in Residential Homes.