Structural Systems: The Benefits of Structural Steel Frames
The use of steel structural systems in New Zealand's commercial and residential construction has become increasingly popular in recent years. Structural steel shaped a wide range of the project, from complex skyscrapers to single-family homes. Its numerous benefits promise its irreplaceable role in transforming urban and rural landscapes in the future.
This article introduces everything you should know about structural steel frames, especially their benefits as a primary building material.
What is a Structural Steel System?
A structural system serves as the backbone of a building. This frame system forms and supports a built structure, helping it last for decades. As a skeletal component for buildings, steel increases performance and durability exponentially.
Structural steel frames are a series of interconnected steel members. These components can support the weight of any building's size and materials.
Manufacturers fabricate steel components offsite before transporting them to the construction site. A team assembles these steel parts into a frame. The completed structure is the first stage of constructing buildings that require endurance, durability, and stability.
Steel structural systems are the most sought-after construction trend today for several reasons. The section below explains why.
What are the Qualities of Structural Steel?
Steel frames have unique qualities that make them stand out.
Durable
Steel is one of the most durable materials in the world. Aside from its resistance to corrosion and pest damage, steel can withstand harsh weather conditions and constant seismic activities.
As a structural frame material, steel is ideal for buildings that experience frequent natural calamities, such as typhoons, extreme hot and cold weather, and earthquakes.
Cost-effective
With the qualities of steel as a building material, it's surprising that structural steel is cost-effective. This affordability is thanks to the material's flexibility and easy fabrication process. Manufacturers can also process, treat, and coat steel in bulk.
General contractors and engineers also don't have to spend too much on transport and construction time when using steel. As mentioned earlier, the small steel components are assembled into the frame quickly and with minimal equipment on-site.
Versatile
Steel is a friendly material for architects and engineers, especially in giving life to their unique designs. Steel frames come in varying designs, types, and sizes. They are fabricated according to the custom demands of builders with the same speed and accuracy as traditional structural system designs.
Fire Resistant
Steel can withstand extreme heat and rise in temperature in case of fire accidents and other related disasters. A steel skeletal frame will remain intact, thanks to the material's high melting point. Opting for steel is a cost-effective prevention measure that can limit the damage caused by disasters and help speed up recovery.
Sustainable
Did you know that steel is 100% recyclable? The world will never run out of this material. Since steel won't experience the same scarcity that causes cost fluctuations in other building components, rest assured your project is completed on time and within budget.
Steel's recyclability also makes it sustainable and a better environmental choice. Reduce your carbon footprint by opting for this eco-friendly material.
You can enjoy these advantages when you choose steel structural systems for your next build. If you want to know more about how this material can turn your vision into reality, talk to a licensed and trusted steel frame fabricator in New Zealand today!
