Five Reasons Why Steel is a Superior Construction Material
India is the second-largest finished steel consumer in the world. Coupled with government-led initiatives in the affordable housing and infrastructure sector and robust growth in automotive and capital goods segments, steel consumption will escalate enormously.
A component that became popular in the construction sector after the 1800s, steel is known for its incomparable strength and durability. It has unique properties of high tensile strength and structural integrity. With its production becoming cheaper and more efficient, using it in buildings and other structures became feasible. Today, steel has become an essential component of construction that cannot be left behind. These five benefits of steel make it a superior material that can be used for constructing resilient structures.
Durable
Foundations on steel are resilient, durable, and strong. This is due to consistency and uniformity in properties, better quality control, large elasticity, and ductility. It is one of the most ideal choices for the structure foundation as it is also earthquake resistant. Protecting buildings from unexpected weather conditions is also a priority for steel. It can not only withstand heavy winds and hurricanes but also protect the structure from termite infestation and rotting. It is also fire-resistant due to its ability to withstand temperatures around 1000°C.
Reduced Time Consumption
Steel is fabricated to exact measurements and thus it reduces the overall time taken to complete a construction project successfully. Progress of the work is fast making the structures economical as erection of steel is a straightforward process as it joins the structural elements together on site. Minimizing the impact by speeding up the construction process helps optimize cost and time. As contractors strive hard to complete their projects before time to save unnecessary costs attached to delays, using steel can save dilemmas.
Recyclable
Steel is 100% recyclable. Being one of the most recycled materials on our planet it can be reused without further processing. Additionally, structural steel empties salvage yards allowing land to be used for other purposes. Without changing its quality, usage of steel does not contribute to waste and prevents environment pollution. Using this material can save additional costs, which in most cases make construction projects costly. Over a period of time, the steel used in old structures could be reused again and save precious resources.
Cost-efficient
Steel remains the cost leader for most construction projects. Although the initial cost of installing steel is not cheaper, it cuts down the consequential costs that add up when using other materials. Faster construction and longer time spans equate to cost efficiency. Additionally, it increases the effectiveness of the general development process. Due to its longevity, replacement, and repair, costs associated with other construction materials do not exist.
Design-flexible
The versatility of steel assist achieves the most ambitious visions. Combining form and function, it offers slenderness and elegance, unleashes creativity or creates practical designs without compromising on the quality. They are the perfect material for designs that need unhinged space without columns. It can be easily achieved by installing steel frames. As steel is ductile, it can be rolled into any shape according to project requirements. This material can come in handy for projects where appearance and beauty are of prime importance.
Steel is manufactured and fabricated under controlled conditions using modern quality assurance processes. It optimizes space efficiency and continues to pioneer new innovations for both the material and the usage.
With merits that can fasten and improve the quality of construction, there is no reason to undermine the importance of steel in this sector.