All around the world you can find all types of buildings. Depending on the location it may vary, for example the purpose, the cost it took to build, all of them went through a different construction process. If you found yourself in the need to build a house in a jungle, you could achieve it with local materials: wood or plants. On the other hand, in Europe there is a great quantity of raw stone available, which is commonly used for traditional constructions. In the United States you would find that their primal raw material is wood. In Mexico you can find mainly concrete and cement as our most used resources.
When it comes to commercial buildings, people prefer a stronger material (rather than a softer one, like wood) that can hold on for years. This is the reason why our modern cities are built with cement or metal, or even, a combination of both. Usually steel is used as a support in the form of bars, or the inside of a concrete building, nevertheless there has been an increase in constructions that use metal as their main component. By using stronger materials like stainless steel alongside soft materials, for example aluminum for external cladding.
There are multiple reasons why you would like to build your project with a metallic structure, although there are some concerns you should keep in mind.
Here you can find more insight over this relevant matter.
The main benefit from metal is strength. In comparison to (almost) any other material, metal will last longer and will be stronger. Even when you compare it to other firm elements, like cement, steel will be the best option. Steel can be strong and at the same time flexible. To set an example of this, there were affected regions from hurricane Katrina, the buildings and constructions that stood through it all, where the ones made out from steel.
The reason for the resistance found in this material relies on the components. These components form the structure of the metallic alloy. The atoms in the particles are closer, forming a denser structure in the material. This also applies to the crystal structures, which makes them heat resistant and keeps them strong.
Strength is not the only benefit when it comes to using steel in constructions. It is completely resistant to bugs and it can handle heat or even cold temperatures. The construction process has less waste produced, just as such, the maintenance is generally less than other types of constructions.
When it is time to build with materials like steel, you can find that it is easier to handle. Oftentimes, people prefer prefabricated structures made out of steel, which can be a great option mainly because the assembling is faster. Another benefit from choosing prefabricated structures is the option of choosing the type of metal you need, there are different prices and qualities all over the market. Here are some examples of the diverse types of buildings made from metal: churches, factories, convenient stores, storage units, office buildings and small establishments, you could even find a skyscraper made completely out of steel.
Due to the increase of demand in prefabricated metal structures, they can be personalized to a certain level. Starting from the organization aspect, by sorting them as you need and with time, if you want, change the disposition. If you tried this method with any other material, it would require more time and work. In addition, concrete and metal have been a great combination, which means you could choose to have a concrete story accompanied by walls and roof made from metal. As the years go by, your construction will still look modern and robust.
When it comes to risks on buildings, the element of security is always present, being a robbery or a fire. Both are potential risks, when it comes to structures, but with steel you could add a layer of protection. If by any chance the building caught on fire, it would require incredibly high temperatures for it to affect the steel, or in a robbery people would not be able to penetrate the walls made of this material.
Although these are great benefits, there is also a process in the maintenance. We recommend that you pay special attention to the application of rust free paint to your steel structures, or another option could be an aluminum finish. In a general sense, there is no doubt that the financial benefits long term from metallic structures are undeniable.
After knowing all of these benefits, we are sure you will consider adding metallic structures to your new construction projects. The advantages will be greater than the inconvenients.
ESNAVI is a company dedicated to commercial construction in Mexico, with vast experience in design and warehouse building. Consult our services to know more about us.