Over the years, metal buildings have gained popularity for their pros and features. Type in “metal buildings” on the Google search bar, and you will see many things about it. There are myths and facts that you will encounter. To protect you from misinformation, you need to be aware of some common myths about metal buildings. Read on for more details:
Metal Buildings Are Expensive
Most people think that steel structures are more expensive than other building materials like wood, concrete, and bricks. Most construction projects cost a significant sum of money. However, pre-engineered steel buildings can provide you with lots of savings.
Do not be discouraged by the upfront costs. Yes, initial building costs may be slightly higher but metal is actually more cost-effective in the long run. Steel is a material designed to last for decades. When you build with metal, you are choosing durability, flexibility, and lower expenses.
Metal Buildings Are Difficult To Construct
This is untrue because steel buildings are easier to erect. Most metal buildings are pre-assembled before being shipped to your site. You don’t need a lot of crew and construction equipment to install it on your property. Steel structures are easy to build, removing the frequent downtime and high maintenance costs.
Metal Buildings Are Weak and Not Durable
Unlike wood and other building materials, steel buildings face fewer issues with deterioration. This is because metal has the properties to withstand common causes of deterioration and decay in buildings. When properly designed and installed, it can provide optimal strength, longevity, and long-term durability.
With regular cleaning and maintenance, it can maintain its superb value and last anywhere from 50 to 100 years. This is much longer than other building materials can offer!
You Can’t Extend or Upgrade Metal Buildings
This is a common misconception but expanding your metal building is completely doable. You can add or change certain features to the structure itself. This type of building is highly flexible and customizable. If you want, you can completely disassemble and reconfigure your entire metal building.
Unlike other traditional materials like wood or brick, alterations and expansions can be done without spending a fortune. You can easily convert your metal carport into a steel garage and vice versa.
Metal Buildings Are Limited in Design and Unique Features
When talking about steel construction, you might think of warehouses and large metal storage spaces. But steel is a very versatile building material. It is not only limited to a metal box-like appearance. You can customize your steel construction to suit your specific requirements.
Whether you need a metal barn or carport, you can create a unique structure that can blend in with your property. It is also available in a variety of profiles, colors, textures, and finishes. This means that you can make your metal building mimic and appear to be made of any material, including wood, stone, and brick. You may also add pre-engineered building accessories to customize its functionality and appearance.
Metal Buildings Are Not Energy Efficient and Sustainable
Many people are mistaken to think that metal panels can melt easily. This is not true because steel has a melting temperature of approximately 1,370 degrees Celsius. It is designed to impede thermal energy from being transmitted to the interior surface. With the proper insulation and building accessories, you can keep your prefabricated steel building cool even during the summer season.
One advantage of having a steel building is its sustainability. Most metal panels are produced from at least 70 percent recycled steel. It is environmentally conscious and provides inherent longevity and durability.
Metal Buildings Are Noisy During Rainy and Hail Season
This myth has some truth to it. Fortunately, there are insulation and soundproofing materials that will help reduce the noises heard from the outside. A lot of companies offer insulation, drywall, and sound-absorbing sheets for optimal noise reduction. You can install these materials on the walls and the ceiling to lessen the amount of noise that penetrates the metal building.
With the right design, technology, and solid sheathing, you can improve acoustics to optimize the functionality of your steel structure. Even heavy rain and hail will only sound like echo and muffled sounds.
These Buildings Are Prone to Corrosion
Yes, metal is prone to rust and corrosion. However, metal building systems are usually coated with galvanized materials that help prevent the oxidation of iron. The steel sheets are also painted with color finishes for additional protection.
Rust only becomes an issue when the surface is damaged or not coated properly. Regular upkeep will ensure that the coating stays for a very long time. In fact, steel buildings can last a lifetime with just a few repairs and minimal maintenance.
Steel Structures Are More Prone to Lightning Strikes
If you are hesitant to have a metal building because of the dangers of a lightning strike, you don’t have to worry! A metal building will not increase the chances of being struck by lightning. The truth is lightning is not attracted to specific objects or materials. It can strike anything and seek the best conductor closest to the cloud. If a tall tree near your metal building is more likely to be hit than your structure.
Good thing, you can install a lightning protection system that will route the electrical discharges around the outside for your metal building. This will ensure your safety during lightning storms.
Why Choose Custom Metal Buildings of Midland?
There you have it—the most common myths about steel buildings that we have busted. In case you are looking for experts in steel construction in Midland Texas, reach out to our company! We design and build metal buildings and barndominiums that are built to the highest quality standards! Send us an email today.