Choosing the right material can make a huge difference in time and cost when it comes to commercial construction. Traditional materials like wood, brick, and concrete each offer their own advantages. However, steel consistently proves to be the superior choice for architects looking to deliver projects with speed and efficiency.
In this article, Simon Barren, Founder of Carnegie Steel Buildings, explains why steel is rapidly becoming the preferred option for commercial developments across the UK.
Steel Construction
Steel is prized for its strength, durability, and design flexibility. For commercial projects, this means the ability to create large, open spaces without the need for interior columns. It’s ideal for warehouses, retail outlets, and industrial units.
Steel is also incredibly resilient. Whether dealing with the unpredictable British weather or meeting the highest fire safety standards, steel stands up to the elements. It’s not affected by pests or moisture either, which makes it a long-term, low-maintenance investment.
Traditional Construction Methods
Traditional construction has been the backbone of British architecture for centuries. Wood is affordable and easy to source, brick offers a timeless aesthetic, and concrete is well-known for its structural integrity.
However, these materials come with downsides when it comes to modern commercial projects. Traditional construction tends to be more labour-intensive and requires different skilled trades at every stage. This adds complexity, and more often than not, it extends the overall timeline.
Time Savings: Steel vs. Traditional Construction
Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings
One of the most significant advantages steel offers is the speed of construction. Steel buildings are often pre-engineered, meaning they arrive on-site ready for quick assembly. This eliminates much of the on-site fabrication and can shave weeks or even months off the build time. In contrast, traditional buildings are constructed piece by piece on-site, which slows the process considerably.
Efficiency in Installation
Once on-site, steel components are pre-cut and pre-drilled, making assembly fast and straightforward. This results in fewer delays and less chance of costly errors. Traditional materials, by comparison, require more adjustments on-site, leading to longer construction phases and increased labour costs.
Weather Resistance
UK weather can be unpredictable, but steel construction is far less vulnerable to delays caused by rain or freezing conditions. Traditional materials like wood and concrete are much more sensitive to weather. Wood can warp in damp conditions, and concrete needs specific temperatures to cure properly. On the other hand, steel can be erected in almost any weather, helping keep projects on track, no matter the forecast.
Cost Savings: Steel vs. Traditional Construction
Lower Material Costs
While steel may initially seem like a costly option, it’s actually very competitive when you factor in the efficiencies of prefabrication. Steel components are manufactured with high precision, meaning less material waste. By contrast, traditional materials like wood, brick, and concrete often require cutting and fitting, which leads to more waste and increased costs.
Labour Costs
Because steel structures go up faster, they require fewer man-hours. This translates directly into reduced labour costs. In traditional construction, the need for different specialists and longer project timelines drives up costs significantly, making steel a much more attractive option from a budget perspective.
Long-Term Savings
Steel buildings offer significant long-term savings due to their durability and low-maintenance nature. Unlike wood or concrete, steel doesn’t rot or require frequent repairs. Additionally, steel structures can be highly energy-efficient, especially when designed to accommodate high-grade insulation or integrated solar panels. These features help reduce energy costs, providing a financial return over the building’s lifetime.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Steel: A Sustainable Option
Sustainability is increasingly important in architecture, and steel is one of the most eco-friendly building materials available. Steel is 100% recyclable, and the material can be reused repeatedly without any loss of quality. Pre-engineered steel buildings also create less on-site waste, aligning with efforts to reduce construction’s environmental footprint.
Environmental Concerns with Traditional Materials
In contrast, traditional materials such as wood and concrete come with significant environmental concerns. Wood construction contributes to deforestation, and concrete production is energy-intensive, producing high carbon emissions. Additionally, these materials often create more waste during construction, which adds to the environmental impact of a project.
Why Steel Is the Better Choice for Commercial Projects
Steel offers undeniable benefits for architects focused on delivering efficient, cost-effective commercial projects. Its speed of construction, lower material and labour costs, and long-term durability make it a smart investment. And with sustainability becoming a priority, steel stands out as a recyclable, eco-friendly building material that reduces waste and lowers the carbon footprint of new developments.