Sustainable Construction with Steel Buildings

 Are steel buildings sustainable? The answer might surprise you. While metal buildings may seem to be the very opposite of everything the green building movement stands for, looks can be deceiving. In fact:

• The steel used in pre-fab steel buildings is often largely recycled – a very green choice
• Steel buildings are largely recyclable, unlike wood-frame buildings which offer few recyclable parts
• Metal buildings can be disassembled and reassembled on another site if you move, saving you money along with the wear and tear it saves on the earth
• Metal roofs are a sustainable and green choice and can be even more so depending on your choice of materials

 In addition to the basics of sustainability, the choices you make when planning and constructing your steel building can make it even more sustainable. For example:

• Galvanized metal roof panels reflect sunlight instead of absorbing heat, keeping your building cooler during the day and saving the energy you’d normally use to cool your plant
• Solar panels mount easily on metal roofs, offering you an option to store and generate your own energy without the use of fossil fuels
• Insulated panels in the walls and the roof of metal buildings help reduce heat transfer and save energy
• Skylight panels fit easily into steel frames, and allow natural light into your building, which is a healthier and more energy efficient option than artificial lights
• Cool white steel panels are energy-star rated for their reflectivity and emissivity and they reflect heat and reduce your use of energy.  What’s more, steel powder-coating requires very little maintenance. You won’t have to repaint for years.

 Their durability is another factor that makes steel buildings a greener choice than many other options.

• Steel buildings last longer than concrete, wood or earthen buildings.
• Because they last longer, you’re not using up more materials to rebuild or replace them when they fail.
• Naturally resistant to fire and corrosion, steel buildings won’t require chemical sprays to eliminate pests and reduce their susceptibility to fire

If you’re planning a new structure on your property or for your business, consult a manufacturer of steel buildings to find out how the latest technologies can help you build green, more sustainable structures for all of your storage and other needs.