When it comes to constructing a home or building, there are many options available to you. One of the most important decisions you will make is what type of material to use. Some people opt for wood, while others choose metal. Both have their own set of pros and cons. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using metal over wood.
How Much Does It Cost To Build With Wood?
The pandemic has caused a decrease in the supply of wood. With many people stuck at home, the lumber yards and big box stores have seen the demand for wood skyrocket. More time at home means people are starting new projects like building decks and remodeling. Then the demand for housing increased. Cheap mortgages caused a spike in the number of people buying and building homes. Builders had to keep up with this demand by building houses as fast as they could. This demand for wood has outpaced what the sawmills are able to produce. So, you have the classic issue of supply and demand at play. This sudden increase in demand meant that supplies decreased. The decreased supply of wood has led to an increase in the price.
Why Is Building With Wood Expensive?
Wood is a beautiful natural material that has been used in construction for centuries. However, using wood as a building material is costly over the long term. Wood needs regular maintenance, is prone to termites, and doesn’t do well with moisture.
- Termites are one of the biggest pests that attack wooden structures. These insects can cause extensive damage to wood, and they’re difficult to control. If you have a wooden structure, you’ll need to regularly inspect it for termite damage and treat the problem if you find it.
- Moisture is another enemy of wood. Wood can rot, mold, and mildew when it’s exposed to moisture. This can cause serious damage to your wooden structure and make it unsafe to live in or work in. If you live in an area with high humidity, consider using another material for your building project.
- Regular maintenance. If you don’t regularly paint or seal it, wood will deteriorate quickly. This is why wooden structures often need to be replaced sooner than structures made from metal.
- Fire. Wood is a very combustible material and creates a serious fire hazard. A small spark can turn into an inferno that can consume a building in a matter of minutes.
Building with wood may be cheaper upfront, but the costs of maintaining a wooden structure are higher than the cost of maintaining a structure made from other materials such as metal. If you’re considering using wood for your next building project, weigh the long-term costs before making your decision. You may find that a strong metal is a better investment in the long run.
What Are The Benefits of Building With Steel?
If you’re thinking about constructing a new building, it’s important to consider all of your options. Materials like wood and concrete have been popular choices for centuries, but steel is an increasingly popular option for modern construction. Steel components are found throughout modern buildings. Here are some of the benefits of building with steel:
- Steel is strong. It can withstand high winds and even earthquakes, making it an ideal choice for areas that experience extreme weather conditions.
- Steel has a long lifespan. With proper maintenance, a steel structure can last for decades. This makes it a very cost-effective option in the long run.
- Steel requires less maintenance than other materials like wood. Once a steel structure is built, it won’t require much care or upkeep over the years.
- Steel can be recycled. When a steel building is torn down, the steel can be reused to build new structures. This makes it an environmentally friendly option.
- Steel is fire safer. In the event of a fire, steel will not burn like wood.
How Expensive Is Insurance On A Steel Building?
Insurance is cheaper on a metal-framed building for a few reasons. One reason is that steel buildings are non-combustible, so in the event of a fire, there is much less damage. Metal buildings also have a higher wind resistance, so they are less likely to sustain damage in high winds. Overall, metal buildings are just more durable and require less maintenance, which is why insurance companies offer lower rates.
What Are My Design Options For A Metal Building?
Design options are nearly endless when building a metal home or building. Metal buildings are incredibly versatile and can be designed to match any architectural style. From contemporary to traditional, there is a metal building design that will suit your vision. Metal panels can be any number of colors to match your desired style so you can create a truly unique look for your custom design. You can use our free online visualizer and color selector tool to view all your available options.
Are Metal Buildings Energy Efficient?
Heating and cooling a home or building can be very expensive. That’s why building with steel is a great option that can save you money over time.
Here’s why:
- Metal buildings have a very good thermal envelope. This means that the building does not lose heat in winter and does not gain heat in summer.
- Metal buildings are very airtight. This means that there is less air infiltration and thus less energy loss.
- Metal buildings typically have high-efficiency heating and cooling systems. These systems use less energy and result in lower utility bills.
Building with steel has many benefits that make it a great choice for your next building project. From its strength and durability to its energy efficiency, there are many reasons to choose steel for your new home or business. When you factor in the lower cost of insurance and the endless design options, it’s easy to see why more and more people are choosing steel buildings. So if you’re thinking about building a new home or business, be sure to consider all your options and choose the best material for your needs. Steel just might be the perfect choice for you.If you have any questions about metal buildings or would like help designing your dream home or next project, please contact us at Lucas Metal Works. One of our experienced designers would be happy to help you get started planning your project so you can start building your new steel structure as soon as possible.