A Steel Chassis for a Stronger, Greener Future

HabiTek applies modern materials and technology to age-old post-and-beam construction methods. The system combines the advantages of prefabricated, galvanized steel with the best aspects of conventional wood framing.

HabiTek is a true STEEL + WOOD HYBRID SYSTEM, and the only one of its kind. Our mission is to ease the transition from stick framing to a 21st Century “green” model that focuses on greater durability and longevity, while making building faster and less laborious.

The HabiTek system leverages the economy of prefabrication and the strength of steel to create homes suited for applications on marginal lands like flood plains, coastal regions prone to hurricanes & rising sea levels, and seismically-active zones. See our completed projects to see what makes Habitek's modular system unique.



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key features

Interchangeable: A high degree of standardization means most components can be positioned anywhere within the framework. Components minimize handedness with symmetry in at least two directions, reducing concern for which side or end is up.
Expandable: The framework can be configured for future expansion.
Pre-engineered: All frameworks are custom engineered. When components are bolted together, the framework achieves the required structural integrity; making it virtually self-inspecting.
Transportable: HabiTek components are close-packed for intermodal delivery.
Manageable: All components are sized to be handled by two able-bodied persons; no heavy machinery is required. Further, components are pre-punched to receive the same diameter bolt. Bolts are secured with nuts that can be finger turned, and tightened using one combination spud wrench and ratchet.
Reusable: In the case of transitional or emergency housing, components can be disassembled and re-used for permanent structures.
Subsystem Compatibility: Holes are provided in components for wiring and plumbing.
Fit and Finish Flexibility: Finishing out a HabiTek framework is done largely in the conventional way (sheetrock, siding, roofing, etc.). Infill panels, whether framed in situ or provided by HabiTek in the form of pre-fabricated panels, are fastened to the steel chassis using tek screws and/or air-driven pins.
Do It Yourself (DIY): In the case of smaller structures, most mechanically-inclined laypersons can assemble a HabiTek framework as a high-tech barn raising.


Read about other benefits and features of the system.

a message to builders in Queensland

We at HabiTek took special notice of the epoch floods you endured in January. Firstly, I extend my condolences to the families and friends of those who died. To those who suffered property losses, we offer our hope that recovery will be swift.

I think many of you will find HabiTek’s post-and-pier steel framing technology of interest. For over a decade, working with architects and structural engineers, HabiTek has refined a method to build faster and better to meet the threat of floods, hurricanes, and even earthquakes. It is high time we improve our construction methods and materials and adapt to these inevitabilities, including sea level rise.

Please review the material on this website to learn what HabiTek can do. If our erector-set like approach is appealing, please contact me. I am especially interested in working with a steel fabrication shop(s) that could fabricate our components and partner with us to build on Queensland’s stilt house tradition using HabiTek’s advanced post-and-pier framing technology. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

Greg Higgins, Managing Director, ghiggins@habitek.biz