Why Is Steel Used In Construction?

Steel products one of the most widely used building materials in construction today, mainly because they are versatile, durable, and affordable. No matter what kind of project you are working on, chances are you will be using steel in one form or another in order to complete the project. Here are some of the most common reasons steel is a favourite for construction.

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What’s it Used For?

We use steel for a myriad of different projects, including the construction of roads and rails, building infrastructures such as bridges and buildings, construction of modern architecture from skyscrapers and airports to residential homes and parks. Even buildings that are constructed using some other material (such as concrete) are often reinforced with steel beams. Inside our homes and in our daily lives, we use steel for appliances, furniture, and vehicles, as well as tools, bolts, screws, nails, and other basic building supplies.

Building Benefits

One of the main reasons steel is used in so many construction projects is its durability—it has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any other building material, making it ideal for buildings both large and small. It is also very consistent since steel supermarkets must follow national standards in steel production for various grades, there is no variation from one steel to another—you can get consistently straight walls, square corners, and functioning doors.

Many companies and homeowners also like that steel is fire-resistant; it will not burn, and thus will not provide fuel in the event of a fire. It is also not an organic material like wood, so it doesn’t rot, split, crack, warp, twist, or break. All of these benefits mean it is one of the most low-maintenance materials you can use to build, which enhances the value of the property where steel is part of the construction.

Cost Benefits

These many benefits contribute to steel being a very affordable option for construction projects. Because it is often made of partially recycled materials, and it is built to last, any project that uses steel will often be more cost-effective than one that uses other metals, or wood. That saving translates to a construction company being more competitive in the bidding process, which can mean more profit and more success.