There has been such a remarkable upsurge in the construction of steel-framed buildings over the past 10-20 years that it is worth touching upon the benefits of steel for commercial buildings before launching into the wide variety of applications they allow for.

Benefits of steel in commercial buildings

Steel buildings are remarkable in that they are affordable, durable, sustainable, easy and cheap to maintain and can be erected with great speed and offer immense future-proofing in terms of extension and remodelling. They are also largely recyclable. It is impossible to find another material that is used in construction that offers this range of benefits. Of course, this plethora of advantages means that steel-framed buildings are now used in a wide variety of commercial applications, explored below.

Commercial uses

It might be quicker to touch upon the very few commercial applications for which steel framed buildings are unsuitable, but let’s focus on the immensely positive nature of this versatile material and outline three of the more popular uses for commercial steel framed buildings.

Industrial buildings / warehouses

Warehouses benefit greatly from steel framed construction or from extensions in steel. They must usually consider great security, accessibility and capacity, all three of which can be matched better when the warehouse is constructed from steel. Steel framed construction not only keeps costs down, allowing for a cheaper way to increase useable space, they are also ideal for facilitating the use of mezzanine floors, which can be an ideal and cost-efficient way to maximise space within a given space. In addition, steel framed construction also cuts down on time and disruption as the parts are delivered cut to size and ready to fit, ensuring that there is minimal noise and chaos on site.

Agricultural Buildings

There are many reasons why steel works best for agricultural buildings. Steel is an immensely strong material and in agriculture buildings are often very exposed and subject to a battering from the elements as well as pests, mildew and rot and the threat of fire. Steel is very resistant to weather damage and can handle being battered from the elements and on occasion from machinery or livestock. It is also very suitable for providing safe shelter and security for animals and equipment. The capacity for insulation in steel framed buildings is excellent and the environment inside can be kept stable, which is vital for the comfort of animals. Steel is also perfect for replacing old silos and keeping grains save and dry. Of course, the affordability consideration is one that is very important in an industry that is often under great financial pressure. Finally, the flexibility of steel for remodelling (simply removing bolts and adding new frames and supports) makes it truly ideal for agricultural purposes, keeping any necessary extension costs to a minimum.

Workshops

Steel framed constructions make for great, cost-effective and equipment protecting spaces for those looking for the perfect workshop. Keeping valuable tools and equipment dry, safe and secure is vital for workshop users and steel framed buildings provide perfect, not to mention cost-effective solutions.