Steel, concrete, and timber are commonly utilised at construction sites. The steel framing construction method is where steel columns and bars are collected to support the floors, rooftops, cladding, inside installations, finishings, and tenants. This article will take a glance at the benefits of steel frame construction methods over other construction materials that are being used.
- Strength – The density of steel is much higher, and steel is much stronger when compared to other materials that are used at a construction site, such as timber or concrete. This point also implies that steel will be heavier than other materials. Steel with a length of 100mm x 50mm can carry more load than timber with 100mm x 50mm. Steel will reduce the material shipping cost and labour cost.
- Durability – Steel is durable and can last longer than other materials used at a construction site. Steel does not split or crack the way timber does. Timber is vulnerable to insect attacks, whereas steel is not vulnerable to insect attacks. Mould and mildew cannot grow because steel lacks porosity, whereas timber and concrete lack porosity. Steel must be protected with a fire-resistant and water-resistant coating material. The fire-resistant coating will make the steel more durable and prevent it from losing its strength and composure. The water-resistant coating can be done to avoid the steel material from rusting.
- Cost-effective – steel frames are not fabricated at the construction site. They are manufactured off-site, and this will reduce the labour cost by 10% – 20%. Off-site fabrication minimises the number of workers, which means fewer chances for an accident at the construction site. Off-site fabrication also reduces the construction time, which decreases the financial costs, such as fewer labour charges, fewer interest payments, etc.
The maintenance cost of steel comes down compared to other materials used at the construction site as steel is more durable than the other materials. Steel can withstand pests, decay, and natural disasters. Keeping this point in mind, insurance companies offer cheaper premium insurance for construction sites that use steel in construction buildings.
Versatility: – Steel is very versatile. It can easily be fabricated into various shapes without losing its strength and other benefits. This versatility will allow the builder to come up with more innovative and creative designs. Architects use this feature to come up with structurally sound designs. In the future, if a builder wants to make any renovations, then it will become very easy for them because of its versatile nature.
Safety: – Steel is much more robust than other materials used at a construction site. This material makes it safer than other buildings built using different materials such as timber and concrete. Buildings constructed with steel are much safer in natural and human-made emergencies such as hurricanes, snow loads, explosions, etc. On the other hand, timber is flexible, but it is exposed to fire risk. Steel is non-combustible, so it is not exposed to fire risks. Simultaneously, the strength of a concrete building is compromised when it is exposed to higher temperatures. Concrete is not flexible, and it becomes stronger when it is reinforced with steel.
CONCLUSION:
Above discussed are a few advantages of steel frame construction. Apart from the above-discussed benefits, steel frame construction has many other benefits. Steel is versatile and can be constructed in any weather. Due to its versatility, it can easily be adapted to sudden design changes. Using steel will reduce the financial burden and financial expense that a builder must acquire during the construction.
