Durability and Versatility: Why Metal Buildings Are the Future of Construction

Do you have a new construction project? Consider a metal building instead of traditional construction. These structures have become synonymous with modern architecture because they are durable and versatile. Whether you’re building a home, barn, commercial space, or industrial facility, metal buildings are practical and efficient.

At Armstrong Steel, we understand the evolution of steel construction, and as a leading fabricator, we’ve witnessed the versatility and strength of metal buildings firsthand. Join us as we explore how metal buildings are shaping the future of construction and discover the benefits they can bring to your next project.

A history of building with metal

While the use of metal in construction dates back to ancient civilizations, it wasn’t until the 19th century that builders fully harnessed its potential, when they recognized the strength and durability of materials like steel and iron and used them to construct bridges and railways. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that metal buildings truly came into their own as a distinct construction material. It was during this time that steel began to make a prominent architectural statement.

Early use of metal in 20th-century construction

Metal buildings were mainly utilitarian in the late 19th century. In this sense, function was preferred over form. This practice went on through the early 20th century, resulting in pre-engineered structures that are quick to assemble and cost-effective to own. Thus, these buildings were typically used as warehouses, agricultural facilities, and factories.

Innovations after World War II

The post-war era boasted significant innovations in technology and materials that helped advance metal building construction. Steel structures became much more versatile and appealing, inspiring creativity in architectural design. They featured more intricate designs and made it possible to build larger buildings. This expanded their use beyond industrial applications.

20th-century steel structures

In the mid-20th century, engineers and architects began using more metals like steel to create iconic landmarks. This led to metal buildings becoming architectural wonders that defied traditional design norms. One perfect example is Frank Gehry’s design of the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain.

Contemporary metal structures

Today, metal structures are not merely industrial — they are also used as commercial and office spaces, churches, barns, hangars, and residential homes, proving their versatility and reliability for any application. At Armstrong Steel, we are proud of our ability to tailor every pre-engineered metal building to suit any purpose — from garages to workshops to equestrian facilities. Whether you need a simple structure or a massive building, we will ensure it’s expertly designed and fabricated to align with your needs.

The benefits of building with metal

Metal buildings have many advantages that make them worth considering over traditional construction. At Armstrong Steel, we have seen how these benefits have helped boost the popularity and adoption of steel structures across different industries.

Durability and longevity

With a metal building, you can worry less about harsh weather and earthquakes in the long run. This type of structure is well-known for its durability and can withstand heavy snowfall and high winds. Metal buildings remain structurally sound even in the face of seismic activities and hurricanes. Plus, rot and pests will be the least of your problems. All this results in a long-lasting and low-maintenance structure that helps you save money on replacement costs and maintenance.

At Armstrong Steel, we stand behind the structural soundness and durability of our prefabricated metal buildings. Our 50-year structural warranty is among the lengthiest in our industry to give you more peace of mind on your building.

Versatility

Metal building construction can be versatile for any application, thanks to the various framing systems available. By engaging a seasoned fabricator like us, you have access to modular and clear-span steel frames that allow you to transform a prefabricated steel structure into anything —from warehouses and manufacturing plants to retail establishments, offices, and homes. This versatility extends to implementing any layout, as the building can be made with minimal interior columns.

At Armstrong Steel, we acknowledge that your needs differ from those of other clients. For this reason, we never use cookie-cutter designs that don’t leave any room for customization. Plus, we don’t reuse previous designs that may not apply to your needs. We may offer prefabricated metal buildings but we consider your requirements to ensure they are designed your way.

Flexibility for any design intent

With Armstrong Steel, you won’t be able to tell that the structure is made from steel. Your metal building is easy to incorporate with any construction materials, so you won’t have to worry about it looking like a warehouse. One of the benefits of steel is it can accommodate all interior and exterior finishes, allowing you to personalize the building’s aesthetics.

Additionally, we design our metal structures to support all roof and wall designs. If you believe metal panels and CMU will make your building look too industrial, you can simply swap them with shingles and brick or use a decorative finish like stucco for a fine, versatile exterior for your home or business. Metal also allows you to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces with any architectural element, including stone, glass, and wood.

Energy efficiency

Advances in construction methods and insulation technology have made metal buildings easier and more effective to insulate. Proper insulation can make your building energy efficient, regulating regulated indoor temperatures and minimizing cooling and heating expenses. You can also leverage the reflective nature of metal roofing to reduce cooling costs.

Quick construction

Need to build quickly? A metal building can speed up your construction timeline. Its prefabricated components streamline the assembly and erection process, making it ideal for any project with tight deadlines. Your new steel structure could be ready within a few days or weeks, assuming it has no significant customizations and complex features. On the other hand, traditional construction could take at least a few months to complete.

At Armstrong Steel, we help you build quickly and cost-effectively by providing detailed assembly drawings and anchor bolt patterns. Plus, all major connections are already punched and ready to bolt together. With most components numbered and cut, all you have to do is refer to our drawings and step-by-step erection guide to complete your building.

Expandable structures

Pre-engineered metal buildings can be made in almost any size, ensuring they align with your length, width, and height requirements. At Armstrong Steel, we can help you determine the ideal dimensions for your project. For example, if you require an open and uninterrupted interior space, we can design a building with a clear-span framing system. This eliminates the need for numerous columns and allows for wider spans that are simply not possible with traditional wood or concrete structures.

A metal building can also future-proof your property, especially if you plan to expand it down the road. Steel buildings offer virtually unlimited options when it comes to crosswise or lengthwise expansions. Plus, you can easily change the layout down the line to keep up with your changing needs.

No waste

At Armstrong Steel, we are proud of our ability to maximize the use of materials in crafting metal buildings. By designing your metal building in-house, we eliminate residual waste. This allows us to limit the costs of production, ensuring you pay only for the materials we use in your structure, unlike when you build with lumber.

We also engineer every aspect of your building to meet your local codes and loads. This helps us avoid excessive material usage while preventing problems that could halt your construction or impact the structure’s longevity down the road.

Reduced labor costs

Our metal buildings are designed and pre-engineered to fit seamlessly, resulting in lower labor costs. The pre-punched connections, detailed drawings, and numbered components help streamline assembly and erection. All these helps you save money and time during construction.

Applications of metal structures in modern construction

An Armstrong Steel metal building is guaranteed to offer exceptional durability and versatility. Our structures are shaping the future of construction by providing efficient and customizable solutions. Let’s look at the popular applications of our metal buildings in key areas:

Agriculture

Whether you need a barn, equipment storage facility, or greenhouse, a metal building will serve you well. It can keep up with the demands and challenges of managing a farm and offer ample space for any purpose, including livestock housing.

Commercial

Our metal buildings can be used as retail spaces, strip malls, and offices. We have worked with clients who turned our prefabricated steel structures into restaurants and medical clinics. The cost-effectiveness and fast construction times make them favorable for businesses looking to turn a profit as soon as possible.

Residential

Did you know that a metal building can be made into a beautiful home? This is among our specialties here at Armstrong Steel. Our building consultants can help turn our prefabricated steel buildings into your dream house. As a homeowner, you’ll appreciate the customization options and energy efficiency that metal buildings offer. Plus, you can enjoy a cost-effective and sustainable living space.

Aircraft hangar

The clear-span framing of metal buildings makes them the perfect aircraft hangars. They offer protection and reliable shelter for aviation equipment, planes, and other aircraft.

Recreational facilities

Are you building a community center? How about a gym or sports complex? Metal buildings can help you realize any project, including equestrian centers, all thanks to their open and spacious interiors and cost-effectiveness.

Discover the future of construction with Armstrong Steel Building Systems

If you’re ready to build a metal building, don’t hesitate to contact us to get started as soon as possible. Price your building by sharing a few details here, or call our building experts at 1-800-345-4610.

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