A steel building has a number of advantages over traditional material such as reinforced concrete or wood. From weight and strength to cost and sustainability, steel structures are becoming the material of choice for UK businesses looking to expand. In this blog post, we share the top reasons why steel structures make the best commercial buildings.
1. Affordability
From design to installation and ongoing costs, structural steel can result in a number of significant cost savings.
First and foremost, structural steel does not have to be built on-site, which enables our project managers to offer clients an accurate start-to-finish timeframe with no hidden costs.
Foundation costs for steel buildings are also considerably lower – this is because the loads inflicted by a steel frame are up to 50% less than traditional concrete.
Beyond the initial design and installation, steel buildings are often more energy-efficient than their traditional counterparts. A well-insulated steel building has the potential to significantly reduce HVAC costs in the long run.
Finally, steel buildings do not decay or decompose and will not warp or split like wood, helping you save on ongoing maintenance costs once your building is operational.
2. Durability
The durability of steel buildings offers our clients peace of mind that their assets, equipment and valued staff are safe and secure. Steel buildings can withstand harsh weather conditions better than any other material. They will not expand or contract when exposed to changes in moisture levels. They are also virtually flame retardant, which makes your commercial property a safer investment. When protective coatings are applied for seasoned professionals, structural steel can be highly resistant to corrosion, meaning your building will look brand new for years to come.
3. Adaptability
Steel buildings can grow with your business. It is easier to expand and add modifications to a steel structure than a brick or concrete build. By adding width, length or height, you can accommodate future expansions in storage or production space.
Whether the purpose of the steel building is for an indoor arena or an aircraft hangar, steel buildings can easily be updated and renovated to suit your changing requirements.
4. Sustainability
If you’re a growing business that values your sustainability credentials, then opting for a steel building could be the answer.
The recovery rate of steel from demolition sites in the UK is an impressive 99% for structural steelwork, exceeding any other construction material.
More than 98% of the steel in the construction industry can be reused. Due to the pre-fabrication of steel structures off-site, there is very little waste, and the waste that is generated is fully recyclable.
Steel buildings can easily be deconstructed and upcycled, making them a highly sustainable construction with a cradle-to-grave lifecycle.
If you’re looking for an economical, versatile and long-lasting commercial building, choose Hamilton Steel for your next project.
