Are steel buildings better than concrete ones? Concrete has traditionally been the most common construction material used to build offices. Compared to other options like timber, concrete offers several advantages: durability, fire resistance, moldability, and soundproofing.
However, in recent years, steel buildings have become very popular. The advantages of steel buildings for offices are undeniable. From their exceptional strength and durability to their cost-effectiveness and sustainability benefits, steel offers a compelling alternative to traditional construction materials.
Here are some reasons to use steel buildings for offices.
Durability and Strength
Steel buildings excel in strength and durability. Steel doesn’t warp, crack, or creep like wood over time, nor do its chemical compounds change like concrete. Because concrete is an aggregate of numerous chemical compounds mixed with paste, thermal contraction and expansion can happen when exposed to varying temperatures.
This causes it to shrink, crack, deform, and lose strength over time, needing frequent maintenance. Steel is a predictable material that maintains its basic properties and chemical composition.
Moreover, steel can handle immense weight without bending or breaking thanks to its high strength-to-weight ratio and flexibility. As a result, steel buildings offer superior resistance to wind, snow, and rain.
They’re also resilient to earthquakes and other natural disasters, so you can be sure your workers and property are protected if this happens. Finally, steel is non-combustible, making it fire-resistant.
Speed and Efficiency of Construction
Steel buildings usually utilize pre-engineered components. These parts are manufactured in a controlled factory setting and transported to the site for assembly. Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software and automated cutting machines are heavily used in the production of components.
As a result, the process is faster than building traditional offices, and the quality is consistent. Usually, it takes 6 to 8 weeks to deliver all components to the construction site.
Assembling the components on site takes less time than assembling the component on site. This translates to increased business occupancy, minimizing downtime and lost productivity.
Cost-Effectiveness
Building costs are a significant consideration when deciding what material to use. While concrete is cheaper than steel, the total construction cost of a concrete office is comparable to that of a prefab steel office. This is because you’ll add labour and machinery costs to build a concrete office.
However, maintaining a concrete office will cost you more in the long run. For instance, you’ll need to patch cracks and seal surfaces. Steel’s durability minimizes repairs and replacements, leading to a lower total cost of ownership. Additionally, some energy-efficient steel buildings may qualify for tax benefits.
Design Flexibility and Customization
Modern design options and extensive customization possibilities allow visually appealing and inspiring office spaces. Unlike concrete or wood, which limit form, steel can be precisely cut, shaped, and formed. As a result, steel buildings can be created with curves, arches, intricate angles, and virtually any shape.
Moreover, steel’s high strength-to-weight ratio enables long spans with fewer support beams. This feature translates into open, expansive spaces ideal for warehouses, factories, and modern architectural styles. Skylights and windows are seamlessly integrated to maximize natural light for a happier work environment.
In addition, steel buildings offer a wide array of exterior cladding options, including metal panels, insulated metal panels, and even solar panels. Whether you prioritize aesthetics, functionality, energy efficiency, or all, the customization options are endless.
Sustainability Benefits
Steel is highly eco-friendly, boasting an exceptional recycling rate of nearly 100%. At the end of a steel building’s lifespan, it can be melted down and reborn as new steel products. This is done while maintaining its original strength and quality. This characteristic makes steel a favourite material for building owners who prioritize sustainability.
In addition, steel buildings offer inherent insulation properties and create a tight building envelope, improving energy efficiency. This can translate to lower energy bills and reduced environmental footprint. Steel buildings can be further enhanced by solar panels or green roofs.
Adaptability and Expansion
Steel buildings are highly adaptable, accommodating changing space requirements and future expansions. Whether you need to change the interior layout or add new sections, steel structures make these alterations relatively easy and cost-effective. This is a significant advantage for businesses anticipating growth or evolving operational needs.
Aesthetic Appeal
As a business owner, you want a strong office that withstands weather elements and is pleasing. Studies have shown that a well-designed workspace improves mood and productivity. Steel is flexible, so it can be designed in many ways to create visually appealing offices.
Also Read: Cost Savings and Efficiency: Why Steel Buildings Dominate in the USA
