Structural steel has become one of the most prevalent construction materials of the century, often seen as an extremely important component of modern buildings and housing. It’s become viable for any kind of project and offers several benefits, which many building plans rely on for structural safety.

Availability

The widespread adoption of steel has made it easy to find, both as a raw alloy and pre-made components. Thanks to this, companies can work under tighter deadlines and access a supply of steel parts anywhere in the world. 

Weight

Its lightweight makes steel easy to transport over land and lift via a crane, reducing the amount of fuel wasted getting it to the site. In addition, this can make buildings far easier to take down.

Low weight can aid in moving and rebuilding structures. This added mobility and versatility makes steel a very desirable building material for structures that have extra land for expansion.

Sustainability

As the desire for eco-friendly buildings increases, steel will become more convenient for construction projects. It can easily be recycled and doesn’t need to be permanently disposed of, so old buildings or temporary supports can be repurposed into new projects as needed. Recovered steel components that haven’t been damaged can be re-used in other projects, removing the cost of getting the alloy melted down and re-cut as a new part. 

Strength

Due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, less steel is needed in a single support or beam, reducing material costs and improving its sustainable nature. It can withstand strong physical impacts and forces, keeping building occupants safe, but won’t wear away or need to be replaced afterwards. This extra strength can be retained through the design, rather than the amount of steel used. Steel I-beams are often used in modern construction since they’re lighter, stronger and less wasteful than any wooden beam of the same size.

Price

Concrete remains more consistent compared to the varying price of steel, but the costs of repairing and reinforcing a concrete beam or pillar will usually make steel cheaper over a building’s lifetime.