Trends in construction are showing an increased interest in buildings. More specifically, steel frames are being regarded as one of the most efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly options. The frames can come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from the Quonset buildings offered by SteelMaster USA and the barndominium designs that mimic the wooden structures found on many farms. When it comes to the material selection for your next building project, take inventory of the pros and cons associated with steel fabrication. If you have an open mind, you will see why steel stands above the rest for construction projects.
Becoming Earth-Friendly
There is a lot of attention to organic eating and green living, and some people aren’t aware of just how far they can go with making environmentally-friendly choices. Steel buildings are eco-friendly because they can be built from recycled steel, and they can also be recycled. When you use recycled steel, it can reduce the need to rely on other resources and the energy that it takes to mine other elements from the earth. Choosing to use recycled steel also help save thousands of gallons of water given the need for water supply in mining operations and refinement processes. Once the structure is no longer needed, it can be taken to the scrap yard and easily recycled. This helps keep waste out of the landfill and reduces the impact on the environment.
Keeping Quality a Priority
Steel is a highly durable material. Even if the steel has been recycled, it still keeps its natural qualities. It can resist a number of weather conditions, given its composition of iron and carbon. This makes it an ideal building material where wind damage or storms are highly probable. When steel is alloyed with carbon and heated, it creates a bond that makes it highly resistant to corrosion. It becomes a prime choice for exterior construction framing and even siding materials. This resistance also brings steel to the forefront of choices for both construction and ornamental designs. For additional corrosion protection, galvanizing has become another method of coating metal materials. Resistance to corrosion and even damage from weather elements reduces the costs associated with repairs and upkeep, but it also gives your building a high-quality exterior.
Making Progress Affordable
Many would think a building crafted from steel would be more expensive than a traditional wooden frame structure, but consider the importance of recycling. There are some materials that are simply consumed and nothing is left. Because steel is easily recycled, it does help reduce the overall cost of materials. However, calculating the cost of a project doesn’t just include the materials. Many companies offer prefabricated design structures, which also helps reduce the cost. The time and labor that is reduced when using a prefab building is a considerable financial benefit for investing in a steel frame project.
Whether you need to expand on your current space or you want to build a whole new structure, steel frames and buildings can provide an economical but quality option. Projects that utilize steel will be more durable, stable, and prepared to face the weather conditions that might otherwise threaten the building.
It’s great that you mentioned how steel is a highly durable material. We are currently planning the construction of a new house and we are making a list of materials that we’re going to need. I think having some steel beams would be great, so I’ll definitely put it on our list.