Is a prefab steel system the best option for you (in the long run)? Can a steel system help save the environment? We will find out more below.
The Material Costs Involved
Concrete
The first thing to discuss is concrete (since many people use it as part of their plan to combat a material overload). It is (for the most part) available pretty much anywhere you need materials for infrastructure, and other systems, including steel buildings).
Steel
You can also find steel. Steel encompasses a more excellent strength-to-weight ration for most buildings. That means that even surpasses the concrete component (which is pretty strong, to begin with).
That is why most use steel as the main component for the steel buildings (even though concrete can be used to). The other surprise is that when you use steel against other materials, you use fewer materials. Fewer materials mean less overall cost.
The other aspect concerning steel is the hours it takes to prepare. Most steel can be produced in two hours or less (even less time than it takes concrete). That is why steel is seen as the more competitive, highly cost-effective alternative compared to using concrete.
There is also a recycled component to think about. Did you know that domestic steel production has about 90% of recycled steel products? That is because the steel system captures approximately 90% of the scraps and recycles them right away.
That also means that the price for steel stays pretty consistent over time, compared to using concrete.
The Building Costs
Concrete
Are you planning on using concrete for your building? It will take a very skilled contractor who knows what he or she is doing. It will also take many experienced workers to help get the project up and going.
It also takes much time for the concrete to form correctly. It could take a long time(especially if you have a big project). Moreover, it also means that you have to spend more money on the project. Time spent waiting means more money added to the payroll (for the workers, the client, and more).
Steel
Steel works a bit differently (in contrast). When using pre-fabrication for pre-engineered buildings (which is where the prefab steel system comes into play), you end up cutting every cost associated with the project. Constructing steel projects also requires fewer workers and fewer workers with specialized skills. That is also where you reduce the cost drastically.
The reason is that workers with specialized skills require more money. That is because you have to pay more for their expertise.
It also means there is less risk associated with a project. The longer you stay on a project, the more risks involved (including injuries and other accidents). That is not something you necessarily want to contend with.
One example (between the two) is the reinforced concrete construction. Yes, you can save a lot of money by doing it yourself (on much smaller projects). However, most people will not take on a project like that themselves (most people are smarter than that).
The Long Term Costs Associated With Each Material
You have to consider what it takes to operate the building (0nce it is constructed). Let’s compare the two.
Concrete
Let’s discuss the cast-in-place concrete for a second. Yes, it is going to reduce the temperature swings and drafts that come in. However, and, more importantly, you are going to need to keep up with the repairs. Concrete buildings and construction do require much maintenance.
Steel
Now let’s discuss the steel component and how it differs. You can get the same thing (that concrete gives) and have it last. Steel buildings can last for years and years(many decades) as long as you erect it properly. You also do not have the maintenance you would have otherwise with concrete.
The one downside (and yes, there is a downside) is that you will find an energy-efficient problem. There is a solution, however. The insulation will reduce the costs associated with heating and cooling by at least 50%.
Who Wins The Battle Concerning Eco-Friendly Materials?
Well, let’s consider a few things. Concrete can only be recycled by 50% with its used materials, whereas the other half will wind up in a dumpster or a landfill. That is a big problem plaguing our country right now.
Plus, it is not recommended as an economical solution to recycle concrete. That means, according to various studies, more than 480 tons of concrete waste gets dumped.
Concrete is also made of cement. For those of you who do not know, cement is known to give off carbon dioxide emissions. According to those same reports, cement puts out about 5% of all greenhouse gas emissions every year.
What about steel?
Steel, on the other hand, can provide some of the following.
- Steel is 100% reusable. Plus, it never loses its value no how many times you use it(unlike concrete).
- Using recycled steel costs a lot less than using steel that has never been used.
- The properties in steel are easy to handle and reuse.
Draw your conclusions based on this information.
What About A Project (Which is Better)?
The best thing we can say is that only you can decide which one is better. Every project is different. Concrete might be useful for one, and steel might be better for another. All we are asking is that you keep the above information in mind when taking on a project.
You could also benefit from a hybrid project. That means you use both steel and concrete components, giving you the best of both worlds. One example is how tilt-up concrete works well with pre-engineered framing for your structure.
Still, do you have concerns and questions before beginning your project? You can talk to one of our Allied Steel Building specialists today. You can find us online, as well.
