Estudio comparativo de costos, sostenibilidad y eficiencia del sistema de construcción tradicional vs el Steel Frame

Abstract

The construction sector in Ecuador, crucial for the economy and employment, was severely affected by the pandemic, highlighting the need for sustainable and efficient solutions. Latin America and the Caribbean face significant challenges such as demographic growth and housing deficit; In Quito, less than 5 percent of urban households and 10 percent of rural households lack housing and basic services, according to ECLAC, highlighting the urgency of developing sustainable alternatives In this research, the Steel frame was compared with reinforced concrete in terms of costs, efficiency and sustainability; It stood out for being more economical, efficient and sustainable in the use of materials, allowing resources to be optimized due to its low level of waste; To carry out this project, the process was divided into three phases: the first bibliographic research, the second the experimental design and the third evaluation of costs, sustainability and efficiency; To complete them, architectural and structural plans, construction budgets were prepared for the two construction systems, work schedules were also made to know the construction time of each system, lastly a conformity evaluation matrix to determine what the more sustainable method. As a result, this system can improve housing rates in Ecuador and contribute to regional economic and environmental development. It offers significant advantages in sustainability and lower environmental impact, thanks to its efficiency in manufacturing, assembly and waste management, and its ability to reduce emissions and energy consumption.