Metalcon vs Wood in Southern Chile: The Untold Truth
Metalcon vs Wood in Southern Chile: The Untold Truth
In southern Chile, tradition says "wood." It is noble, aesthetic, and abundant. But technology advances and the climate is changing. Is wood still the best option against Metalcon (Galvanized Steel)?
1. Enemy #1: Humidity
Wood: It is hygroscopic; it absorbs and releases moisture. With the long winters of Valdivia or Puerto Montt, wood tends to "work" (swell and contract). This causes doors that don't close in winter and cracks in the stucco.
Metalcon: It is inert to moisture. It does not change its dimension. Your house remains geometrically perfect all year round, without cracks in cornices or squaring problems.
2. Biodegradation: Termites and Fungi
Wood: Requires constant impregnation and chemical treatment. Even so, it is food for termites and susceptible to fungi if there are leaks.
Metalcon: It is inorganic. No insect eats it, and fungi cannot grow on steel. It is an eternal structure without the need for toxic chemicals.
3. Fire Resistance
Wood: It is combustible. Period.
Metalcon: It is non-combustible. It does not contribute to the fire load of the home. This, combined with fire-resistant gypsum boards, gives you valuable minutes of extra safety.
4. Precision and Speed
A Metalcon house is pre-dimensioned with millimeter precision. There are no "crooked boards" or waste on site. This translates into a cleaner work site and up to 30% faster execution than traditional native wood carpentry.
Verdict
If you love wood, use it exposed: in decorative beams or cladding. But for the structural skeleton of your house, Metalcon is the smart decision to protect your investment in the Chilean climate.