The use of steel in construction and structural design has been an established norm for decades in the industry. However, it is often thought of as a material used for immense buildings and projects and comes with safety issues and high costs. These misconceptions could not be further from the truth. Below are three advantages of using steel structures and one example of how steel structures are used in construction today.
Less Intense & Faster Assembly
Metal structures come at the advantage of being slightly more straightforward and easier to assemble than other types of structures. Metal structures used for construction generally come in parts light enough for a construction team to carry on and off-site, and easy enough that they generally do not require heavy equipment and machinery such as power saws. Additionally, with less need for heavy equipment, and with the relative ease of construction, metal structures often save considerable project time as opposed to other materials used in structural design.
It still should be noted, however, that proper site safety procedures should always be followed accordingly. While metal structures do have the potential to slightly alleviate safety hazards, there is always the possibility of someone taking a slip and falling for example. Be sure to take appropriate care.
Environmentally Friendly
A large majority of steel is made from recycled materials and as such is a sustainable material. Additionally, the steel industry has made great strides in innovations resulting in efficiency and increased productivity. One of the biggest areas of development has been pre-fabrications, which help to reduce the overall wasteful input found in the steel production industry.
Furthermore, using steel and recycling it when it has gone past its use can help construction companies in earning green building certifications, which help show evidence that they are an environmentally minded company.
Durability
Metal structural designs are often used for places that experience hazardous weather due to their ability to withstand the elements. Metal structures generally provide more structural integrity than wood and similar materials and, with proper care, can remain in good condition for a very long time. If metal is exposed to the outside, remember that it is important to paint over the steel so to prevent rust.
A common misconception amongst the public is that metal structures are more dangerous in the event of a lightning strike. In fact, metal structures are always grounded and actually are less likely than structures that have wiring in-built.
An Example of Steel Structures
Warehouses & Factories
Metal structures are a very popular choice for buildings that require large open spaces with minimal support. As such, they are frequently used in the construction of large warehouses and factories to maximise space. Furthermore, steel structures come at a lower cost than other materials, making them a perfect choice for companies following cost-leadership strategies.
Contact a supplier near you to learn about steel sales in your area.
Share27 May 2020
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