Steel Buildings: The Modern Construction Design

By Adriana Noton

Steel buildings are increasingly popular for many reasons. In the past, buildings of steel were usually devoted to uses in agriculture, manufacturing and other heavy uses. Homes, apartments and commercial buildings now are often constructed of steel. There are advantages with steel that include its durability, ease of construction and original design. Steel has become the material of choice for many building projects.

Buildings constructed of steel are more cost effective in two ways. The initial cost of the steel is comparable to traditional framed buildings. Other building materials such as concrete, brick or stone can be even more expensive than steel.

Steel structures last longer than wood structures. This saves money because repairs are fewer and less comprehensive. The steel frame can't be attacked by termites. Dry rot in the structure is never a problem. The steel framework can't twist due to improper drying in the kiln. The framework stays aligned, unlike timber, which can become warped. Wood studs can split or crack with negative implications for the condition of the building.

When it is time to erect the building using steel, you don't use traditional framing methods. A skeleton of steel is erected using welding or bolts, then a metal skin covers the framework. The steel structure is then insulated and finished, usually with wood, paneling, sheet rock or other construction materials.

Because many steel buildings are pre-engineered, they arrive at the building site as a complete package. Experienced builders can put up an engineered building quickly. Typically, the structure is designed to be in compliance with local building codes, so there is less downtime while waiting for building inspectors to arrive and inspect completed portions of the building.

Steel structures are more versatile than traditional buildings. They are often designed as units that can be adjusted as needs change. You can expand the size of the building even after the structure is in place. Just add additional framework and more panels to cover the increased wall space. The basic structure may be added to, shrunk and redesigned into a different floor plan if needed. A steel structure could be moved to a different location if necessary.

Pound for pound, the strength of steel is higher than that of wood. Additional structural strength allows for buildings to be taller or to have more open space. Natural forces such as earthquakes, high winds, rain and snow load won't destroy a building made of steel. Wood framing in a building may collapse under similar conditions.

Every time steel is used in a building, a tree is saved. Whether the structure is original construction or is a remodeling project, you can be sure that an engineered steel structure is easier on the environment. Timber is a diminishing resource in the world, but steel is renewable.

Steel buildings are just as attractive as wooden, brick or concrete structures. In fact, the building of steel may look better longer because there is no misalignment or weathering when the building ages. Even industrial or farm buildings can look attractive thanks to the designs and colors available with steel. - 30544

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