In 1996 the founders of IHE embarked on a new adventure by becoming the first production oriented, steel framing company in San Diego County. Through that process, we learned a great deal about steel framing, including simplicity construc- ing and the quality obtained in the finished product by building homes out of light-gauge steel. In addition, we discovered the world’s demand for affordable housing was not being met and that the world was seeking an alternative to the archaic, slow and often-times structurally inferior method of building houses with concrete and concrete block. Steel is lighter than other framing materials and provides the highest strength to weight ratio. Steel is 100% recyclable and is the most recycled construction material on earth. Steel is non-combustible (NFPA statistics show that wood is third most commonly first-ignited material). Steel is insusceptible to termites and other pests. Steel does not rot, warp, split, crack or creep. Steel is dimensionally stable (steel is straight, does not expand or contract with moisture content). Steel is made of nearly 75% recycled material. Steel can be erected by a low skill work force after a brief training program. Steel has design flexibility. Steel's span capabilities virtually eliminate load bearing walls and allow for larger open spaces. Steel is banker friendly. Banks have no reservation in lending for permanent structures.