Natural disasters are inevitable. While we may not be able to prevent them from happening, we can mitigate their impact. For instance, we can plan ahead and reduce their adverse effects through great building design.
With the latest advancements in building and construction, engineered steel structures have become possible. One advantage of metal buildings is their resistance to extreme weather damage. They can withstand nature’s most treacherous moments, including the following:
Earthquakes
Steel is a material that is most resistant to earthquakes. This is why metal buildings have an edge over concrete in lessening the impact of the ground shaking. Concrete buildings have low ductility, so they only tolerate very little lateral displacements. Less ductile buildings are highly susceptible to earthquake damage.
On the other hand, metal buildings are very ductile. This means that they can bend without breaking or failing. Steel materials can go under large strains and withstand the destructive effects of earthquakes.
During a seismic tremor, the weight of the building starts to work against the structure. Since metal buildings are lighter, they are less likely to collapse.
Fire
Choosing a non-combustible material is important in resisting the spread of fire. No structure is fireproof. But pre-engineered metal buildings can outlast other building materials when it comes to fire resistance. In fact, steel will only lose its structural integrity when exposed to high temperatures of over 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Even the International Building Code recognizes steel framing as a non-combustible material.
Correctly installed steel structures can stop or slow the spread of fire. Unlike wooden structures, custom metal buildings will not go up in flames quickly. It does not ignite nor feed the flames. As a result, this can save lives, properties, and the building itself.
To improve fire-protection features, you can add fire-resistant coatings, exterior fire barriers, and appropriate firestop systems.
Heavy Snow
The winter season means frequent days of blizzards and high winds. This will result in heavy snow loads that can affect the integrity of your building. If you own a metal building, then you don’t have to worry much about the snow buildup on your roof. Steel structures are strong enough to stand up to the weight and heavy pressure caused by the snow.
There are lesser chances that your metal building will collapse because it can handle higher snow loads than traditional building types. In addition, it is susceptible to snow moisture that can lead to mold growth in your home.
Strong Winds
If you’re looking for a building that can mitigate damages from destructive winds and tornadoes, a steel-framed structure is an answer. One great benefit of steel buildings is they can withstand forces up to 170 miles per hour. They can protect you against flying debris and resist great impacts.
Steel is the best construction material for disaster-prone areas. It can resist strong winds, keep your structure dry, and minimize mold. Metal buildings have steel poles and beams that help increase the resistance of the structure itself.
Flooding
Hurricanes and flooding have become more common due to climate change. More and more areas are experiencing torrential rains, which affect different structures. When building materials are exposed to moisture, mold can grow and thrive. This will cause property damage and a wide range of health problems.
Metal homes and offices have an edge over wood structures. This type of building can resist even the heaviest rains. In case of flooding, disaster clean-up and repair are much easier to do. There’s no need to worry about rotting and warping that happens to wood buildings.
Unique Features of Metal Buildings
Excellent Engineering
A pre-engineered metal building features a steel frame system with a metal roof and wall panels. They are designed to be more cost-efficient and customizable than traditional buildings. Moreover, they can be fabricated according to your specific requirements.
Whether you are in a flood or hurricane-prone area, you can find a building that is uniquely and efficiently designed for your needs. All you need to do is hire a metal building contractor that offers the utmost engineering and design.
Strength-to-Weight Ratio
This term is also known as specific strength, which compares the strength of a material with its density. In the context of buildings, the strength-to-weight ratio measures the building material’s inherent strength to its weight. This is the point at which the material will fail to support its own weight under stress or similar situations like earthquakes.
Out of the common construction materials today, steel has the highest strength-to-weight ratio. This is the reason why steel is used in applications that require medium to high toughness and strength requirements.
Metal has a 25 times greater strength-to-weight ratio than wood. It allows metal buildings to stand up against intense ground shaking.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of your metal building needs, choose a reliable steel building contractor who will help you with your project. Our company, Custom Metal Buildings of Midland, can ensure that your structure is resilient to earthquakes and weather conditions.
As one of the top-notch metal building contractors in Midland TX, we are able to provide a wide range of services to our clients. Extreme weather has no chance next to our pre-engineered steel buildings.
Don’t hesitate to contact us to get a quote for your upcoming carport or barndominium project. We’d love to discuss what we can do for you!