Evaluating the efficiency of using lightweight steel in villa construction in the United Arab Emirates: A case study

Stakeholders debate using steel structural systems such as light-gauge steel (LGS) for residential construction. The research aims at developing a framework for evaluating residential building systems based on value engineering. The LGS system was assessed and compared to the typical reinforced concrete (RC) system for houses. A value engineering (VE) workshop evaluated two different systems in terms of cost, time, function, and sustainability for residential projects in the United Arab Emirates. The VE analysis implemented the standard job plan methodology. The analytical hierarchy process using multiple criteria was performed to compare the systems. The overall evaluation found that the LGS system weight was 0.582, compared to 0.418 for the RC system, showing the potential of the LGS system. The LGS system saves about 13.5% of the cost compared to the RC system, including reducing construction time by around one-half. The LGS produces less waste, provides enhanced seismic resistance and constructability, and requires a smaller workforce. The RC system is reliable and adaptable to hot weather in terms of thermal insulation and provides fireproofing properties. Findings from the VE analysis are validated with the data collected from the sites, including construction time, cost, waste generation, and constructability. •Stakeholders are discussing the use of light-gauge steel (LGS) structural systems for residential construction.•The research developed a framework for comparing LGS and reinforced concrete (RC) systems.•The job plan methodology is used to evaluate both systems in terms of cost, time, function, and sustainability.•The LGS system is less expensive, requires less time to construct, is more sustainable, and has better seismic resistance.•The RC system is reliable, adaptable to hot weather, and has thermal insulation and fireproofing properties.