The Advantages of Metal Building Construction
Metal building construction is becoming a popular choice for businesses across the Front Range. High lumber costs, combined with supply chain issues from the recent pandemic, have increased the practicality and availability of metal structures. Continue reading to discover the benefits of metal building construction, as well as how to find the best local provider.
10 Benefits to Metal Building Construction
For companies looking to optimize their structures, metal building construction delivers the following advantages:
Environmental Protection
Most metal buildings are constructed from steel alloys, providing a level of protection and durability wooden buildings can’t match. Because steel buildings are sturdier, they’re incredibly effective at withstanding:
- Strong winds
- Heavy snow
- Hail/Rain storms
- Extreme temperatures
Additionally, metal buildings aren’t subjected to the same environmental wear and tear as wooden buildings, delivering enhanced protection from water damage, termites, and carpenter ants. This durability is seen in the longevity of your structure, as metal buildings stand the test of time, lasting for decades to come.
Maintenance
If you’re looking to reduce operating costs and save money on replacement projects, a metal building construction project is the solution you’re looking for. Steel buildings require less maintenance than traditional structures, as you won’t need to replace shingles or damaged exteriors. Maintaining your facility is significantly easier with steel materials. You won’t need to spend grueling hours washing hard-to-clean surfaces—a simple hose-down will keep your building clean and in top condition.
Simplicity
Continuing the cost-reduction theme, investing in steel structures means you’ll save time and money during the building process. Because metal building construction only requires a few materials, constructing your facility is straightforward. Steel buildings only take a short amount of time to assemble. For reference, on a prepared slab, a 1,200 sq. ft. structure can go up in as little as two hours.
Affordability
Effects from the COVID-19 pandemic sent shockwaves to various industries, and lumber is no exception. In today’s market, acquiring the materials needed to construct a steel building is far less expensive than wood. Additionally, Colorado residents will likely save on property taxes, as the state places less value on steel structures than other building materials.
Durability
As previously stated, a major selling point for metal building construction is the longevity and durability of the structures. In addition to withstanding the wind, snow, and hail that Colorado weather brings, steel is also fire-resistant. If you’re looking for peace of mind in the case of disaster, steel structures help alleviate your concerns.
Energy Efficiency
Focusing on energy efficiency is a practical strategy for farmers looking to optimize their daily operations; steel structures deliver energy savings through two fronts.
Metal Building Insulation
One of the most prominent ways steel structures reduce energy usage is through specialized spray insulation. During construction, your general contractors apply layers of high-performing insulation inside your building. They’ll focus on filling any gaps, alleviating the chances of air escaping from your facility. This helps retain warm air in the winter, reducing the stress placed on your heating systems.
Metal Roofing
Another way metal structures reduce energy usage is through your roofing. Metal roofs are highly efficient in mitigating the thermal transfer between your inside climate and outside temperature. Standard roofing systems absorb the sun’s rays, raising the internal temperature of your building. However, metal roofs reflect heat from the sun, keeping your structure cool during warmer months.
ECO Friendly
If you’re looking for a sustainable and environmentally conscious approach for your building project, steel structures are an effective way to do so. The materials used in metal building construction materials are often recycled and used from repurposed metal, helping reduce excess waste and your carbon footprint.
Because the materials for steel structures come pre-fabricated, conducting minor repairs is far easier compared to wooden structures. Several local vendors offer metal products with the size and shape necessary to complete your project. All you need to do is find a piece of sheet metal that meets your needs, and install it on your building.
Potential Savings
Steel structures typically have lower overall costs over their lifespan due to the strength and durability of the material. This longevity is seen in resale opportunities for your facility, as metal buildings hold a consistent value. Additionally, once your structure reaches the end of its usefulness, you can scrap and sell all aspects of your metal building.
Because of the above benefits, several industries are incorporating steel structures into their building process.
Applications of Metal Building Construction
Businesses looking for an efficient way to grow in size often leverage the advantages of metal building construction. Because these structures are versatile and customizable, investing in steel structures is ideal for the following industries:
- Storage Spaces
- Agriculture and Farming
- Warehouses
- Manufacturing and Industrial
- Municipalities and Government
- Commercial Buildings/Offices
- Educational Institutions
- Transportation
- Waste Management
- Aviation
- Oil and Gas
- Healthcare and Assisted Living
- Food and Beverage
For all of the above industries, finding a contractor you can trust goes a long way toward successfully completing a high-quality build.
How to Find Steel Building Contractors in Colorado
When searching Colorado for contractors, you have several companies to choose from. Partnering with the right one is crucial to your project’s success. So how can you tell what separates the good from the rest?
Check to ensure your potential provider meets the following qualifications:
Testimonials
Another crucial step in evaluating contractors is seeing how past clients feel about their service. No sales pitch can instill confidence in a company’s ability to deliver on projects like first-hand reviews do. Look for client testimonials and references to get a good understanding on:
- Quality of workmanship
- Approach to collaboration
- Ability to work through issues
- Customer service
Paying attention to how previous customers feel helps you establish baseline expectations. You’ll want to partner with a provider with industry experience and a reputation for high-quality service.
Experience
The best indicator of future success is past success. When meeting with general contractors, ask if they’ve done recent work on builds similar to yours. The best companies should leverage their past projects to approach yours in an efficient and effective manner.
Your First Choice For All Things Colorado Construction
Calahan Construction has provided the Front Range with high-quality construction, design, and craftsmanship for over 80 years. We’ve developed a reputation as a trusted general contractor by consistently going above and beyond on every project.
If you’re looking for a trusted provider to handle your next metal building construction project, you’re in the right spot. Reach out to our expert team with any questions—we’re happy to help.