When you’re weighing up your options for the frame of a new building, one consideration will be how long the building will last. You don’t want to spend lots of time and money on a structure that won’t last as long as you expect. There are also considerations around the maintenance and repair costs of different building types. In this article, we take a look at how long steel frame buildings last and what is needed in terms of maintenance; this can help you to decide on the best structure for your building.

So how long do they last?

The answer to this question varies depending on the use and location of the building. There might be some additional consideration if the building is located in a coastal area where it is constantly exposed to moisture and sea air. Additionally, it depends on what the building is being used for; certain manufacturing processes might contribute to a quicker deterioration of the building structure. However, putting all of these aside, generally, steel frame buildings can last for many years. Steel is a very strong and durable material that is resistant to fire, and it also has no issues concerning pests, which can affect the longevity of wooden framed buildings. The main concern with steel framed buildings is rust and preventing exposure to moisture.

Why is steel so strong?

Steel is an alloyed metal. The strength of alloyed metals is derived from all the materials combined to make them: strong iron and carbon, as well as manganese, silicon, phosphorus, sulphur, and oxygen. The smelting process also improves the strength of steel because the metal is heated during the bonding process. This combination makes steel an incredibly strong material.

Cleaning steel framed buildings

An important part of maintenance is regular cleaning of your steel frame building; this will help to wash away any contaminants on the surface which could contribute to the deterioration of the metal. Water is often used to clean the buildings, and people typically do this after the winter during a sunny spring day when the building will dry out fairly quickly. Once a year is usually enough for thoroughly cleaning a steel frame building.

Looking for issues

You should take time out at least once a year, if not more regularly, to look for issues with any steel frame buildings. You’re looking for potential problems such as rust or marks on the building that could wear away the protective coating used to prevent rust. If you find any issues, they should be immediately investigated, especially any areas of rust. If you notice rust, there could be a leak or an issue with moisture. It's essential to find the source of water and prevent it from leaking and causing more rust. The rust should also be removed, and the area treated with a sealant or paint to protect the metal.

Clean out gutters and drains

All buildings need their gutters cleaned to prevent a build-up of material that can result in issues such as leaks and corrosion. The same goes for steel frame buildings; make sure this is part of your regular maintenance plan. It will help to keep your building in top condition.

When carefully looked after, steel frame buildings can last for more than 100 years, so don’t discount this structure as a material for your new construction. It can be used in residential and commercial buildings. When looking at steel frames as an option, consider the energy efficiency; compared to wood, steel doesn’t retain heat as well. However, there are some great insulation options to help your steel structure retain heat.

In addition, for residential properties, steel framed buildings can be harder to insure, and many mortgage providers won’t lend you the money for this type of property, or they might charge higher interest rates. Check before you make any changes or extensions to your property if it impacts your insurance or your mortgage. If you’re planning on building a steel framed residential property from scratch, do your research before committing to the building materials. There can be some issues with reselling this type of property in the future, which might impact your decision.

So how long do they last?

Why is steel so strong?

Cleaning steel framed buildings

Looking for issues

Clean out gutters and drains

Resources:

How Long Do Steel Frame Buildings Last?