The most determining factor in what a contractor will build with is the size of the structure. Steel framing is much stronger. It can therefore sustain the much heavier weight of a much heavier building. Given the resiliency and strength when compared to wood framing, it will also more adequately sustain the strong winds high above the streets.

Steel is also more affordable in many parts of the world right now and is pretty comparable in all markets. So cost to strength, steel is a better investment. Many builders are even using steel frame construction in low rise, residential construction.

Wood frame construction also has plenty of advantages. For example, wood is lightweight and can be subsequently very quickly erected. Also contributing to the quick turnaround for wood frame housing is much easier to assemble than steel frame construction. This is why the typical suburban development of mostly wood frame housing can be fully erected in a matter of weeks.

Another reasons a developer will choose to build with wood over steel is steel frame erection requires a much more skilled labor force than that of wood frame assembly. This is due in great part to steel frame construction requiring talent-intense riveting, welding and heavy machine operation. In most regions of the country this requires skilled union workers and graduated labor costs.