Commercialization of steel structures began around World War II and continues to this date. As industrialization gained momentum, many steel projects emerged in both commercial and residential areas.
Steel used to be expensive and limited only to high-end items like watches & swords until the late 1800s when Sir Henry Bessemer & inventor Sidney Thomas created the production of steel affordable [source: website]. Some famous steel constructions are the Brooklyn Bridge (1883), the Eiffel Tower (1889), the Empire State Building (1931), and the Sydney Harbor Bridge (1932).
Why should you invest in commercial metal buildings?
1. Affordability
Industries work with a tight operational cost to keep them profitable. This is where commercial steel buildings shine. With pre-cut & pre-drill raw materials, they are fast and easy to install. It keeps the overall budget low.
This implies business can start working earlier & generate profit. Another advantage is that metal roofs are pretty light weight, so they do not cause too much pressure on the foundation and frames.
You may be tempted by looking at the initial cost of steel vs. wooden building, but don’t be fooled by it. As the size increases, the difference between metal and wooden costs becomes almost negligible. A wooden structure has many repairs, replacements, and maintenance strings attached to it as well.
2. Quick Installation
Further, all the raw materials are constructed in a factory away from the site. It means you only have to assemble the parts together. This is done effortlessly with less manpower.
After installation of a 2,000 sq. ft. steel frame structure, only 2% of leftover material remains, which can be recycled. Compared to this, a wooden frame will have 20% of its waste going into landfill.
3. Clear Span Option
One of the advantages of buying an industrial metal building is that you have the option of a clear span. A column free structure means that you are entirely free to design your floor plan. You also get maximum square footage usage out of a clear span structure.
You can install a mezzanine to increase your storage space smartly. There are numerous ways in which you can choose floor layout.
4. Low Upkeep
In a test done by Underwriters Labs, a 2-inch diameter steel ball was dropped from approx. two stories onto a 26 gauge standing seam roof & on a 26 gauge 7/8 inch corrugated roof panel. The dents were hardly visible, and the panels had no puncture or tearing.
Metal panels need repainting every five to ten years.
5. Pest Resistant
Steel structures need low maintenance as compared to others. Now, you may ask, “How?” Let’s see. Steel posts are impenetrable and do not get affected by termites. A metal building is resistant to mold & mildew. So, no need to spray chemicals every now & then.
Animals and insects can’t cut or chew through a metal panel. Hence, your indoor is safe.
6. Energy Efficient
With the correct insulator in place, a commercial metal building acts as a moisture barrier. It helps regulate indoor temperature. Your HAVC system will have to work less to maintain the temperature. This will reduce your energy bills.
For a commercial steel building, being cost efficient can lead to getting tax incentives. A tax deduction of up to $1.80 per sq. ft. is available on saving a minimum of 50% of the heating & cooling energy of a building.
This feature will be highly relevant if you use an industrial metal building for storage. Your inventory will stay fresh and last long. So, less product wastage & more revenue.
You can go up a notch and install solar panels on your metal roof. This will aid in lowering your energy bills. Both metal & solar panels are long lasting.
7. Long Lasting
A commercial metal building tends to retain its structural integrity throughout its lifespan. They are incredibly durable & robust. Despite being used over & over again; steel does not lose its strength.
On top of it, a steel structure can withstand harsh weather conditions like hails, heavy rain, tornadoes & hurricanes. Only a direct hit can cause any damage. Even at the end of its life, you can demolish steel & resell it to your nearest scrapyard for cash.
The only thing that affects steel is rusting, but the good news is that 100% galvanized steel is corrosion resistant.
8. Saving on Insurance
Since steel is a non-combustible material, it reduces the risk of fire or the spread of fire. Hence, the insurance premium is low. Metals are generally strong and quite resilient to daily wear & tear.
9. Strength
Steel is a strong material. It is incredibly durable & robust. A galvanized steel will be rust resistant and add life to your metal structure. When buying a metal building, it is crucial to verify the credibility and past performance of the dealers. Additionally, ensure that they are certified or licensed.
What are the potential uses of a commercial steel building?
You can use your commercial steel building in myriad ways. Some of them are as follows:
- commercial office spaces
- commercial workshops
- retail stores
- office buildings
- recreational centers
- bowling allies
- car wash shops
- auto repair shops
- livestock barns
- horse barns
- Church buildings
- indoor sports area
- commercial storages
- deep freeze storages
- inventory, etc.
On a final note on industrial metal buildings:
A certified steel building will retain its value for longer. So, always buy it from a licensed manufacturer. You may even inquire about warranties on your metal frame & panels. Now that we have discussed the benefits, you can confidently choose a commercial metal building.
Your metal structure will stay put & stand firm against all natural calamities. It will be an investment with the best ROI. So, you can positively do it.