Full Build — Stick-Built Steel Frame System
Stand-Alone Steel Frame System
A stick-build (full build) steel frame system is a stand-alone light-steel structure assembled on site component by component. It gives full design flexibility for housing and apartment buildings up to around eight storeys, and suits sites where prefabricated panels are impractical.
By Boyan Stanilov, Managing Director, BAS Frames · Last reviewed July 2026
Stand-Alone Steel Frame System
Our Stick Build system delivers fast, accurate construction using light gauge steel sections for residential and mixed-use buildings up to eight storeys. Installed directly from slab level, it provides a clean, efficient alternative to traditional methods and supports a wide range of external finishes.
Lightweight steel makes Stick Build ideal for vertical extensions, particularly across London, where additional floors can be added with minimal structural impact.
This method is rapidly becoming the preferred choice for London-based developments, particularly where unused airspace above commercial buildings can be transformed into high-quality residential units—maximising value without extensive structural alterations.
LGSF Technology
Our Light Gauge Steel Frame (LGSF) solutions deliver precision, speed, and long-term stability for modern residential and mid-rise developments. While Stick Build is assembled on-site, panelised systems are covered separately.
SFS Infill
We supply engineered SFS infill for concrete frame buildings, enabling fast envelope closure and reliable façade performance.
Rooftop Extensions
As specialists in steel frame rooftop extensions, we design lightweight structures that allow clean, efficient vertical expansion without major strengthening works.
Residential & Industrial Steel Structures
Stick Build supports steel frame homes, garden rooms, and bespoke residential designs, alongside durable industrial and agricultural steel buildings.
Specialist Sub-Contractor
We operate as a dedicated steel frame supplier and SFS sub-contractor, offering full design support, 3D modelling, and value-engineered solutions for projects of all scales.
FAQ – Stick Build Steel Frame System
Frequently asked questions
What is a stick-build steel frame system?
A stick-build (full build) steel frame system is a stand-alone structure assembled on site component by component from light gauge steel sections. It gives full design flexibility for residential and mixed-use buildings up to around eight storeys.
When is stick-build better than a panellised system?
Stick-build suits sites where prefabricated panels are impractical — constrained or occupied buildings, complex geometry, restricted crane access, or rooftop extensions where components must be lifted and assembled in place.
How tall can a stick-build steel frame be?
Stand-alone stick-build systems are commonly used up to about eight storeys, subject to structural design, loading and the wind conditions on the specific site.
Is stick-build suitable for rooftop extensions?
Yes. Its low self-weight makes stick-build well suited to rooftop extensions, allowing additional floors to be added with minimal reinforcement of the existing structure.
Is Light Gauge Steel Frame (LGSF) the same as SFS?
Both use light gauge steel. SFS usually refers to non-loadbearing infill and façade systems fixed to a primary frame, while LGSF forms loadbearing walls, floors and complete structural frames — which is what a stick-build full build is.
Why use steel instead of timber for a stick-built frame?
Steel is dimensionally stable, non-combustible and lightweight, and it does not warp, rot or shrink. That means tighter tolerances on site, predictable fire performance and long-term structural reliability.
Can a stick-built steel frame take any external finish?
Yes. A stick-built frame accepts a wide range of finishes, including render, brick slips, natural stone, timber laminates and rainscreen cladding.
How long does a stick-build project take on site?
Programme depends on the building’s size and complexity, but stick-build erection is typically faster than traditional construction: the components are light enough to handle without heavy plant, there is no wet trade drying time, and the frame can be followed closely by the cladding and drylining trades.
Does BAS Frames deliver full stick-build packages?
Yes. BAS Frames designs, supplies and installs stand-alone stick-build steel frame structures as a single accountable package across London, the South East and the wider UK.
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Address: BAS CONSTRUCTIONS LTD
35 Redcliffe Close,
London,
SW5 9HY
Opening times: Mon to Fri – 08:00 – 17:00 Saturday and Sunday and Bank Holidays Closed.