10 Reasons to use Structural Steel Beams for Construction

Top 10 Reasons to use Steel in Construction

1. Not only adaptable, but steel is also easily accessible.
2. Steel is fire-resistant.
3. It’s a lightweight and environmentally-friendly option.
4. You can make aesthetically beautiful designs.
5. As a material, it’s highly functional.
6. There is infinite recyclability with steel.
7. Steel is seismically resistant.
8. In most cases, steel ends up being far more cost-efficient.
9. There is more freedom of design with steel.
10. Using steel is both fast and efficient.

1. Adaptable and accessible

The internal layout requirements of modern buildings can change shape frequently. Walls may need to be moved, and electrical wiring, communications systems or computer networks need to be accessed. Steel framing and floor systems can provide easy access; non-composite steel beams can become composite, and beams and girders are easily reinforced or relocated to support loads that have changed. Steel frame buildings can cater for all these changes.

2. Fire-resistant

Steel has an incredibly high melting temperature and can withstand tremendously high heats. For added protection, extensive analysis and advanced design techniques mean that steel-framed buildings have more precise specifications of fire protection requirements.

3. Lightweight and kinder on the environment

Structural steel is considerably lighter than concrete. Plus, the fact that it needs fewer foundations means it not only reduces environmental repercussions, but steel is also easier to transport, reducing fuel use. Steel can also save energy, as heat radiates quickly from steel exteriors in hot climates, cooling the interior down. While in cold climates a well-insulated steel building can contain heat better.

4. Aesthetically pleasing

Steel is extremely versatile, and architects admire its flexibility. It can be made into non-linear shapes and architects also exploit its natural aesthetic appeal. As a result, structural steel features can be left exposed in architecture rather than covered up.

5. Functionality

The functional characteristics of steel include its:

• Spanning ability
• Dimensional stability
• Ability to reduce acoustic noise
• Speedy and precise manufacturing onsite with minimal labour

6. Recyclable

Steel is the most recycled metal in the world, with around 90% of structural steel today being made from recycled steel. When a steel frame structure is taken down, its parts are reused in the steel industry’s recycling system. It can also be recycled over and over again without damaging its properties.

7. Seismically resistant

Earthquakes can happen in any place, at any time, and at any magnitude - yet steel buildings can resist them because of their flexibility and pliance. Where other materials may crumble, steel flexes under extreme loads and can withstand lateral loads caused by high winds and earthquakes.

8. Cost-effective

Structural steel lasts much longer than other materials; its raw materials require less outlay, and it can span long distances using fewer steel columns.

9. Freedom of design

Unlike concrete or wood, steel can be easily bent and shaped in numerous ways. Its strength, durability, flexibility and beauty make it an architect’s dream for exploring ideas.

10. Fast and efficient

Steel elements can be fabricated off-site, with minimal labour required on-site. It can be assembled quickly, with a whole frame taking days rather than weeks to erect. Its lighter weight compared to concrete means the foundation will be smaller and more straightforward, all contributing to its economic benefits and efficiency.

How Can I Buy Steel Online?

When it comes to buying steel online, Buy A Beam makes it easy for you. We work with reliable, trusted and CE-approved structural steel fabricators to give you instant prices for fully-customisable steel components available in your area. Just log onto our online shop and browse a full range of steel products ready to buy. Select a local supplier to you, and start ordering your steel. It’s that simple!