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▼ What is American Steel Core Builders (ASCB)?
American Steel Core Builders (ASCB) is a developer-led construction company specializing in coastal, flood-compliant, hurricane-rated steel-frame homes in Florida. ASCB focuses on engineered systems, streamlined project management, and long-term durability.
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▼ How does ASCB complete construction work as a developer?
ASCB operates using a developer + GC partner model. Instead of relying on a single general contractor, ASCB works with a network of fully licensed, insured, and vetted general contractor (GC) partners. This approach reduces risk, avoids schedule delays caused by GC capacity constraints, and ensures consistent quality and oversight.
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▼ ASCB seems like a newer company - how much experience do you have?
ASCB is a network alliance that was formed through partnerships with established Florida construction companies, architects, engineers, and licensed contractors. The company focuses on integrating proven years-long expertise with steel construction systems, technology, and unmatched professional project delivery.
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▼ What is the first step to move forward with ASCB?
The first step is a $10,000 Phase 1 retainer. This retainer is applied toward your total build cost if you proceed with ASC to build your home.
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▼ What does the Phase 1 retainer include?
Phase 1 includes:
• Soil testing and geotechnical analysis
• Surveys
• Engineering studies
• Architectural plans
• 3D renderings
• Planning and zoning research and clarification
• Multiple architect and designer revision sessions
• Full takeoff/estimation
This phase allows you to fully design your home and finalize upgrades before signing a construction contract, so you understand costs upfront.
Note: even if you choose not to proceed, all test results, surveys, and plans are yours to keep.
Phase 1 does not include permitting fees or MEP / construction document (CD) blueprints.
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▼ How long does it take to build an ASCB home?
Phase I: Service Level Agreement: 8 weeks
Phase II: Engineering, permitting, and site preparation: 12 weeks
Move-in readiness: Typically within 12 months of permit issuance
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▼ Do I need to hire my own general contractor?
No. ASCB leverages their in-network licensed professional general contractor who is pre-vetted and bank-approved as part of the build service.
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▼ Do I need to obtain permits myself?
No. All required city and state permits and inspections are 100% handled by ASCB and their contracted administrative resources. Permit fees are simply passed down to the client to pay for in the end.
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▼ Can ASCB help with financing?
Yes. ASCB partners with banks like Calcon Mutual Mortgage (a One Trust Bank), which specializes in new-construction financing.
Benefits include:
• No broker fees
• GC partner vetted by the bank
• Financing aligned with construction milestones
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▼ What insurance and warranties are provided?
• All GC partners are fully licensed and insured
• GC warranty: 1 year standard
• Developer contribution: Builder’s Risk Insurance
• Component warranties: apply as provided by manufacturers (steel, roofing, appliances, etc.)
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▼ What construction system does ASCB use?
ASCB homes are built using a full Light Gauge Steel (LGS) framed system, inspired by the KRATOS MX-7 wall system. This is a fully engineered structural system, not wood substitution or partial steel framing.
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▼ What does "full framed system" mean?
It means the entire structural skeleton—walls, floors, and roof—is engineered as one integrated steel system, providing:
• Faster construction
• Higher precision
• Superior performance in coastal environments
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▼ What type of steel is used?
Cold-Formed Steel (CFS), G-90 galvanized for enhanced corrosion resistance in coastal conditions.
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▼ What is G-90?
G stands for galvanization. G-90 means there is a minimum protective zinc-based corrosion protection coating with a weight of 0.90 oz per sq. ft. of steel (on both sides).
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▼ How are ASCB homes supported structurally?
Homes are elevated using:
• Helical piles
• Concrete/steel grade beams
• Elevated structural slabs + concrete-based pillars (typically up to 15 feet above base flood elevation for absolute compliance)
Finished floors on ground level are typically lifted a few feet above BFE, and pillar height makes up the rest, for a combined total of 15’ elevation.
All foundation systems are designed based on soil boring tests and certified by licensed engineers.
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▼ What are Helical Piles?
A helical pile is a steel foundation support that is screwed into the ground to anchor a home into stable soil. It provides strong, reliable support for elevated and coastal construction with minimal excavation.
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▼ Why ASCB uses Helical Piles
Helical piles pair extremely well with elevated homes and steel framing systems because they act as 'giant anchors' that screw deep beneath shifting sand and soft surface soils into stable, load-bearing earth, providing exceptional resistance to erosion, flooding, and storm surge uplift.
Key Benefits:
• Superior Stability: They reach deep, stable layers not affected by surface erosion or shifting, preventing foundation failure.
• Storm-Resistant: Their design resists high winds, flooding, and lateral forces from wave energy.
• Minimal Impact: They require no excavation or curing time, protecting delicate coastal landscapes.
• Corrosion Resistant: Galvanized steel options are designed to withstand high-salt environments.
• Versatile: They are ideal for lifting homes for flood protection or reinforcing foundations on sandy terrain.
Not to mention, they don’t attract termites or rot/warp the way wood does when permeated by water.
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▼ How are the exterior walls built?
The KRATOS MX-7 wall assembly (exterior to interior) includes:
• Exterior cladding (stucco or approved finish)
• Structural sheathing
• Closed-cell spray foam insulation
• Light-gauge steel framing
• Interior magnesium oxide (MgO) drywall
This provides strength, insulation, moisture resistance, and fire performance.
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▼ Are ASCB homes hurricane-resistant?
Yes. Homes are engineered and tested to withstand Category 5 hurricane wind speeds (up to 178–185 mph).
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▼ Are steel-frame homes fire-resistant?
Steel does not ignite, does not spread fire, and does not produce smoke.
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▼ Are steel-frame homes termite resistant?
Yes. Steel framing is impervious to termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-destroying pests.
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▼ Can I design a fully custom home?
Yes. Custom homes are available but priced accordingly. Group or “model home” pricing applies only to standardized floorplans without structural, architectural, or floor plan distribution changes.
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▼ What finishes are included?
Standard finishes are included in the base price along with generous well-thought-out allowances. Upgrade packages are available. Exterior elements—including balconies, complex stairs, and uncovered areas—are priced separately from living (under-air) square footage.
Appliance brands may include popular brands such as GE, Samsung, LG, among other favorites, all subject to availability.
If an all-included, as-is price is provided, that price will be honored unless the client requests finish changes or upgrades during the design phase. This pricing does not include unforeseen conditions, contingency items, or site preparation requirements discovered during construction
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▼ Can I have gas appliances?
Yes, if gas service is available on your street. Gas lines do cost extra as engineering fees, labor, and material apply.
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▼ What pilings are included?
The base estimate includes a $30,000 piling allowance. Final requirements are determined during Phase 1 engineering.
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▼ What landscaping is included?
A $3,000 allowance for basic landscaping to meet minimum compliance is included.
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▼ What stairs are included?
Standard exterior access is provided using the ASCB baseline stair system, designed to reach the primary livable level of the coastal home with up to 20 risers and no complex design implications. Material upgrades are available.
All exterior stair systems include code-compliant custom railings designed for coastal exposure, elevation, and site-specific geometry. Stair pricing reflects a complete, installed system — not individual components.
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▼ What upgrades are available?
Optional upgrades include but are not limited to:
• Mesh enclosures
• Garages (enclosed or breakaway)
• Outdoor kitchens
• Decks and covered terraces
• Elevators/lifts
• HVAC power surge protection, dehumidifier, or UV light
• Water filter and softener + under-the-sink RO system
• Solar systems
All upgrades must be finalized before plans are submitted to the city.
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▼ I already have solar panels - can I use them?
Yes. ASCB works with solar partners without dealer or merchant fees and can also coordinate with your preferred provider. Handling of third party solar panels cannot be part of our scope due to liability and warranty concerns.
Metal roofing panels are designed to accommodate solar mounting.
