Construction is a broad field comprising various specialties, each with unique skills and knowledge. However, engineering is emphasized because it’s the backbone of construction. Of course, this also extends to the materials used because they determine a structure’s integrity. In most construction projects, it’s often a choice between steel and concrete.
Using concrete in a construction project is ideal, but not always because it’s prone to cracks and breakage. Because of this, steel and steel fabricators are the perfect solutions for construction projects because they are strong and durable. They can withstand the weight of heavy loads and are resistant to cracking and breaking. Beyond that, they can also provide you with various finishes, such as powder coating, painting, and even anodizing, which further protects the metal from wear and tear.
If you don’t see the value of using steel and steel fabricators in a construction project, here are some reasons why you should:
#1 – Material Strength
Concrete may be strong, but it’s not indestructible. It can crack and crumble if it’s not properly cared for and maintained, jeopardizing the structure’s stability. In turn, this also affects the safety of people in them.
In terms of material strength, steel is significantly stronger than concrete. This is why steel-framed buildings can withstand much greater loads and forces than those made from concrete. As a result, steel-framed buildings are generally considered safer and more stable than their concrete counterparts.
#2 – Versatility
Concrete is a versatile construction material with many uses, from structural support to foundation material. Additionally, concrete can be customized to achieve a wide range of aesthetic effects. However, this is a double-edged sword because concrete’s versatility is hindered by its inflexibility and rigidity.
When you use steel, versatility isn’t a problem because it can be easily modified and formed into almost any shape. This makes it ideal for many applications, from small household projects to large-scale construction. For example, steel beams in construction can provide superior support and strength compared to concrete.
#3 – Environmental Efficiency
Construction has a significant impact on the environment. When you use concrete, it puts strain on the surrounding structure’s environment because the production of cement (a key ingredient in concrete) releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Concrete also takes up a lot of energy to produce, which can further contribute to climate change.
While using steel still impacts the environment, it’s significantly reduced because it can be recycled and reused repeatedly. Additionally, using steel instead of other materials can help reduce overall emissions since it requires less energy to produce. Using a steel fabricator to create the material also lessens the impact because the process can be done using renewable energy sources.
#4 – Cost-Effectiveness
You can get concrete for a lower price, but you can expect its quality to be lower. In the long run, spending more on higher-quality concrete may be more cost-effective. However, not everyone has the luxury of doing this, especially if the project is on a tight schedule.
By using steel, the price isn’t an issue because it’s not as high as one might think. It’s pretty affordable compared to the cost of concrete because steel is a lot cheaper. Steel prices fluctuate depending on the market, but it is generally cheaper than concrete. The initial installation cost may be higher for steel, but the long-term costs are lower. This means you won’t have to replace it often, saving you money in the long run.
Furthermore, using a steel fabricator is more cost-effective than concrete since the material is less expensive, and the construction process is typically quicker.
Conclusion
Steel offers many advantages in any construction project. It’s strong, durable, can be used in various applications, and is easy to work with. All that matters is finding the right supplier to ensure you get materials with quality that’s worth your money.
If you’re looking for a steel distributor in Birmingham, AL, KGS Steel Birmingham can help you! We use high-quality equipment to develop high-quality materials, all for affordable prices. Simply go to our website to request a quote!
