The Advantages of Steel Buildings Over Traditional Construction Methods

While the steel industry has long been one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, the use of steel as a construction material has seen phenomenal growth in recent years, making it easier than ever to be part of something that truly does make the world a better place. Recent studies have found that using steel as a building material can also save you time and money in the long run, since many steel buildings last longer than traditional buildings and are therefore less likely to need costly repairs or replacements over time. But which types of steel buildings can benefit your business? What are the different methods of creating steel buildings?

Long-lasting
There’s a reason steel is so popular—it lasts. In fact, all structural metals last at least as long as concrete and masonry structures and in many cases they can last up to 100 years longer than other traditional building materials. In an industry where longevity matters, steel has proven itself year after year. By using steel for construction you will save on your operating costs, both immediately and over time. The initial cost may be higher but it pays off in spades down the road.

Environmentally friendly
In recent years, steel buildings have become a more popular choice for construction as they are more environmentally friendly than traditional construction methods. According to statistics, steel is one of world’s most recycled materials and can be completely recycled if required. This means that no waste from demolished or damaged buildings will end up in landfills. Additionally, it is made from 95% recyclable materials which makes it one of those green building materials. Not only does steel use fewer resources during its production but also creates less pollution during manufacturing and transport. Also, these buildings offer better protection against natural disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes etc. compared to other building materials. Steel is stronger than wood, masonry or concrete when exposed to natural disasters making it an ideal material for residential and commercial structures alike.

Fire resistant
An average steel building is constructed with a fire resistance rating four times that of wood. The structural members used in our buildings are usually rated to withstand 12 to 15 hours or more, while most wood-frame buildings only have 2 to 3 hours. While concrete and other material choices offer even higher ratings, steel buildings provide you with excellent protection at a price point much lower than many other materials. Fire safety has been one of the most important features for every building owner, both commercial and residential. By choosing a steel structure for your next project, you’ll not only be safeguarding lives but also ensuring that if disaster does strike, it will be minimal damage—with no loss of human life—if it’s possible at all.

Easy to build
No other building material can match steel’s strength-to-weight ratio. That’s because steel is made up of high tensile strength metal that can be highly engineered to yield a very light construction material. That allows more steel to be used in each project, resulting in lower costs and making it more affordable than traditional methods. There are also some federal, state and local programs that offer rebates for green construction materials like steel which further reduces its cost.

Customizable
Due to its versatility, steel can be used in a variety of unique applications and in many different ways. It can be formed into beautiful sculptures or used as support beams and columns. Large-scale buildings such as stadiums, arenas, and industrial complexes are almost always built with steel due to its superior strength and durability. More modest buildings—houses, condos, barns—can all benefit from steel construction. Modern materials like vinyl siding aren’t always compatible with traditional building methods, but when paired with steel these problems disappear and a whole new world of possibilities opens up for homeowners that have been limited by their existing structures. The potential is limitless with steel!

Affordable
Because steel is cheaper than many other construction materials, steel buildings cost less to produce. This means they’re also less expensive for you to buy. For example, a house built using traditional wood frame construction costs around $200 per square foot. A steel building can cost as little as $85 per square foot. The same design and quality in a brick home would come with a price tag closer to $350 per square foot. Another advantage of a steel building over traditional construction methods is its energy efficiency. Steel is an excellent thermal insulator and conducts heat well, meaning your heating bills should be lower because your home will stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer months if it’s made from steel instead of wood or brick.

Versatile and flexible
Steel buildings are extremely versatile, especially for uses that require large volumes or a flexible floor plan. Additionally, modular steel buildings are easy to design and construct and can be erected on virtually any site. Not only do steel buildings offer low initial costs, but they’re also cost-effective in both their long-term use and maintenance. Need proof? A study from Purdue University found that even with its higher initial construction costs, steel was still the cheaper option when you factored in factors like energy efficiency over 50 years.

Modern buildings in historic locations
In many cases, when a homeowner wants to create a new building on his property or renovate an existing one, he has to meet certain architectural standards. This is particularly true if he lives in an area zoned for historic preservation and protection. However, steel buildings can be constructed just about anywhere due to their light weight. The steel construction industry is experiencing explosive growth these days, and it’s not hard to see why. In addition to being strong and easy to build with, steel structures are energy efficient and durable – qualities that add great value and appeal for homeowners everywhere who are planning on building something new or replacing something old that’s either falling apart or just plain ugly.