Low Maintenance and Long Lifespan: The Metal Building Advantage
Tackling your next building project requires a large amount of planning and foresight to ensure that costs are managed and the build is safe. More and more people have begun utilizing metal in their builds, whether that be additions to homes, creating a shed, building a carport, or several other structures. Metal building has many benefits including low maintenance and a long lifespan, but understanding the full breadth of these benefits can allow you to decide whether or not metal is the right choice for your construction.
1. Durability and Strength
There is a reason metal buildings can survive over 100 years and it’s due to the material used in the construction process. High-quality steel naturally lasts longer due to its structural integrity, thus allowing it to withstand heavier loads and even seismic activity. On top of this, metal tends to have greater weather resistance than alternatives allowing it to weather through wind, rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
Regardless of the type of metal you choose, you are guaranteed to get strength. For example, galvanized steel discussed earlier is often used in agriculture, construction, and the automotive industry given its strength level and resistance to corrosion.
2. Corrosion Resistance
Another reason why using metal in a building project is so advantageous is due to its corrosion resistance. Steel is often galvanized which means it is dipped in a molten zinc mixture which then bonds with the steel. This acts as a protective coating to prevent rust and corrosion over time. This means that structures made with galvanized steel are more likely to have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance. Additionally, using metal in construction projects can help reduce waste as steel is a highly recyclable material. This means that old steel components can be melted down and repurposed for new construction projects, reducing the need for new raw materials and minimizing the environmental impact of the construction industry.
Other metal materials, such as stainless steel, have a natural protective coating known as chromium. This coating reacts with oxygen in the air in such a way that it protects the metal from corrosion naturally. With well over 100 different types of stainless steel available on the market, you have your choice of material options.
3. Fire Resistance
Fortunately, steel is a non-combustible material that has a high melting point which means a structure can stand for longer. This also means that the odd spark flying off from a welding job, for example, is far less likely to cause a fire than a building made out of wooden materials.
There is also a naturally reduced fire risk as steel is unlikely to contribute to the spread of a fire which may damage valuable assets. It’s even possible that you may see insurance savings on your build due to using fire-resistant metals as there is a reduced risk of incidents.
4. Low Maintenance Exteriors
While not exactly a functional benefit, using metal for your project can give you a low-maintenance exterior. This means you don’t need to think about hosing down your build frequently and it will only require periodic washing. Additionally, the modern aesthetic of metal means that you don’t need to spend money now or in the future on paint, thus reducing ongoing costs related to repairs or replacements.
5. Interior Maintenance Benefits
Metal provides a natural durable finish on interior walls and ceilings that will be able to withstand wear and tear. It is also easier to clean than other materials which helps to keep the inside of your shed, carport, or some other structure clean. Metal can also integrate more easily with modern technology such as an HVAC system that can save you money on energy in the future. While an HVAC system costs $5,000-$14,000 to install, it can save you thousands on utilities in the future if it is an energy-efficient system.
6. Long Lifespan and Resale Value
Everybody thinks that they are going to live on their property until the day they die but there may be some event that causes you to move sooner than expected. By constructing a structure or addition on your property that is made out of metal you can also argue for a higher resale value of your land given the estimated longevity of the structure. Additionally, if constructed sustainably, your metal build may have even reduced environmental impact in regards to construction and waste which can be another negotiation point.
Create the Build Project of Your Dreams With Metal
With extremely low maintenance and long lifespans, metal builds tend to be the obvious choice for many over former decisions such as wood. Metal builds will certainly cost more in the meantime, but the long-term cost can potentially be lower than alternative builds. Given the complexity that comes with metal builds, though, reach out to an accredited professional for a quote on your metal building project if you are unsure you have the expertise to handle the job.
