Uses Of Steel In Construction

Different types of steel are widely applied for various purposes in construction because steel is durable and readily marketable. Steel products offer multiple applications, and they are designed to last for as long as 50 years, primarily when used in buildings and construction.

The different steel products used in construction include sheet piles, corrugated roofing, channels, pipes, steel sheets, angle bars, flanges, and many more. There are also some steel products used in cutting other materials. To understand the different applications of steel in construction, we'll look at some of the different types of steel used in construction so keep reading to learn more.

Types of Steel

Different types of steel are used in construction, and some of the most notable types are stainless steel, alloy steel, and rebars.

Steel rebar

This product takes the shape of a rod, and it's usually used as part of the building foundation. Its main features include symmetrical patterns and threads for an easy concrete application.

It's not advisable to use bare concrete for the foundation of a building, bridge, or any other type of concrete structure. This is because of the potential for the material to crack and expand when subjected to high temperature and pressure conditions.

Concrete is not a flexible material, hence the need to reinforce and make it much stronger with steel. Apart from the foundations of a building, steel rebar is also applied in wall panelling, concrete bridge decks, and building columns. The steel rebar is designed to help increase the flexibility of concrete and reduce the amount of concrete used.

Alloy steel

This type of steel is a metallurgical combination of steel and other metals like silicon, chromium, molybdenum, nickel, and manganese. This combination aims to help improve the properties of non-alloy steel, including increased corrosion resistance, machinability, malleability, tensile strength, and hardness.

For instance, these benefits are not usually present in pure manganese, which is primarily used in minimising wear and tear in steel. On the other hand, nickel and mineral copper are used together in producing coins. However, alloy steel also helps improve steel's weldability and flexibility.

They are also utilised for decorative purposes and the functional benefits they offer with other steel materials. You can find alloy steels on bridges, vehicle chassis, high-rise buildings, and a range of other materials used in reinforcing concrete.

Stainless steel

This is a subcategory of alloy steel but has more chromium in it, which is also a metal that occurs in nature. The chromium content helps make the steel non-oxidative and non-corrosive, making it suitable for different uses and applications.

The chromium content is usually between 10% and 18%, but you can find some stainless steel that goes beyond this range. Stainless steel is applied in railing, trusses, roofing materials, agricultural enclosures, building framing, and building cladding.

One of the top advantages of stainless steel is that it doesn't rot, unlike wooded material that oxidises when exposed to humid conditions. Another thing to note is that stainless steel offers exceptional fire resistance because it is non-combustible.

Tool steel

Tool steel is also a structural steel for construction, and it is applied chiefly to fashion alloys and metals to shape. Another application of tool steel is that it is used as a machine component for metal punching, pipe bending, and stamping.

Mild steel

The chromium content in mild steel is lower than that of stainless steel, making it more vulnerable to different types of oxidations and corrosion. Mild steel is a product that lies between tool steel and stainless steel. It is generally more affordable and does not contain metals and elements for alloying.

Uses of Steel In Construction

The application of steel in construction dates back many years ago, and it remains one of the most widely used materials in constructing buildings and other structures. Steel is best for construction because it is durable, fireproof, corrosion-resistant, and strong, which makes it the ideal option for different applications. But what are the benefits of steel, and why has it become so popular?

Properties of steel 

Steel is popular for its rigidity and strength. It is harder to deform than materials like aluminium or wood and can easily bear heavy loads without twisting or buckling. In addition, steel offers higher resistance to corrosion due to its high tensile strength and low permeability. This makes it the ideal option for extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions.

Another thing to note is that steel is non-combustible, and you can rest assured that it won't ignite, even with exposure to lightning strikes or fire. This makes it the perfect option for use in areas more prone to natural disasters.

Top uses of steel in construction 

The application of steel in construction is due to the beneficial properties it offers. It can be widely applied as a structural frame for use in skyscrapers and extremely tall buildings. Steel is also a great option as a load-bearing beam for use in overpasses and bridges.

It is also used as a reinforcement for concrete walls and foundations to prevent cracking and increase stability. Another thing to note is that steel is also applied as a cladding material, mainly used on the exterior walls for more protection against external weathering agents and water penetration.

With that said, here's an overview of some of the uses of steel in construction:

• Structural steel is one of the most widely used materials within the construction industry. It is mainly applied to the skeletal or framing structures of most buildings. This is due to the strength and durability of the material, which makes it the perfect option for the construction of buildings. 
• Steel is also applied for cladding and the exterior finishing of some buildings. The material comes in different finishes and colours, which makes it easier for designers and architects to create unique and beautiful looks for buildings. Another amazing benefit of steel cladding is that it offers protection. 
• Steel beams are usually applied in the construction of large buildings and bridges. The material is solid, which allows it to support different weight levels, and it is also an ideal option for a range of applications. 
• Steel pipes are also used for a range of piping and plumbing applications. The material offers impressive resistance to corrosion and has a remarkable ability to withstand extreme temperature conditions. All these are properties that make it suitable for different applications. 
• Steel wire is applied in constructing various types of barriers, including fences. The strength of the material makes it resistant to damage or cuts, which makes it a suitable option for different applications. 
• Steel is used in building industrial sheds, and this is because it is cost-effective. Structural frameworks are easy to erect, thanks to the wide availability of ready-made steel. This helps in saving time and money for most industries. 
• The application of steel also extends to the construction of residential buildings. For this, sheet metals, metal fabricators, and steel fabricators are all widely used. This allows the building to easily withstand different conditions, including storms, earthquakes, and wind. Structural steel offers a unique level of flexibility and plasticity, which makes it great for residential buildings. In addition, light gauge steel construction is also now a standard option that is used in residential buildings.

Professional Steel Fabrication

As mentioned earlier, the use of steel in construction projects is mainly because of its durability and strength, which is a lot different from that of materials like aluminium and wood. Steel is highly resistant to various conditions, including corrosion, fire, and extreme weather conditions.

If you're going to use steel in your construction project, it is crucial to work with professional steel fabricators to get the best quality service and reliable steel products. These experts are equipped to handle all types of steel framing, no matter your needs.