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There is no shortage of innovative building materials from which to choose in 2022. However, while there are many products on the market, not all of them are suitable for a wide range of projects.
For this reason, architects and construction professionals are increasingly turning their attention to metal. It is becoming a go-to choice for fulfilling many types of construction needs. This is due to its elite durability, versatile aesthetics, and high marks for recycling and rehabilitation. Read on to find out more details regarding the many advantages of building with metal materials including metal wire mesh.
Versatility
Although metal is traditionally thought of as an industrial building solution, it is quickly gaining popularity for the full spectrum of commercial, residential, and private purposes. Whether it be metal studs for framing, steel log siding, or metal roofing panels, metal’s elite durability is making it a preferred choice for a wide range of construction projects.
In addition, innovative engineers are creatively using metal to keep up with evolving design sensibilities. A perfect example is the use of metal wire mesh. This material offers a number of functional and aesthetic benefits to a property. It can improve the facade of an otherwise blase building. Metal Wire Mesh can also add security around a facility’s perimeter. That is certainly more attractive than low-quality chain link fencing.
Durability
For those looking for premium durability, building with metal materials is definitely the way to go. The typical metal building life expectancy will surpass 100 years. It offers durability that few other materials can come close to matching.
This is an especially important consideration as society continues to place an increased emphasis on sustainability. Frequent replacement and renovation of buildings carries not only a monetary cost but also has a major environmental impact through the consumption of additional energy and resources to complete these projects.
Ease of Installation
Metal tends to be an easy material to work with. While steel beams can be heavy and may require some specialized equipment for installation, there is nothing particularly technically difficult about working with metal.
For example, metal roofing is easy to work with and set in place with proper tools. This differs from products such as slate and ceramic tiles. These materials will likely require the expertise of a skilled mason to put in place.
Energy Efficiency
Metal can sometimes get a bad rap in terms of energy efficiency because it readily conducts heat. This leads people to erroneously believe that metal buildings require more air conditioning than wood-framed buildings.
However, metal is actually one of the most energy-efficient building materials in the industry. It is highly reflective, absorbing fewer of the sun’s rays than other materials. While it can get hot to the touch, metal’s low thermal mass can quickly return to the desired temperature level. This leads to lower air conditioning costs than in buildings with high thermal mass. As a result, heat throughout the day requires air conditioning even after the sun has gone down. These benefits can be multiplied even further if you choose insulated metal panels for framing, as the insulation will help absorb any heat that would otherwise be transferred indoors.
Low Lifetime Costs
The cost of a 100×100 metal building will likely run between $120,000 and $190,000. This of course depends on the current cost of steel and your geographic location.
While this may seem like a hefty figure, it will be hard to find any other type of construction that can offer 10,000 square feet at a more competitive cost.
In addition, metal roofing and steel siding may cost more initially than products such as asphalt or vinyl, you have to remember to factor durability into the equation. Those cheaper options will likely have to be replaced multiple times over the course of a building’s life. Thus, making them ultimately more expensive than a single installation of a metal product.
Repurposing
There is a significant push in the construction and architectural industry to salvage and rehabilitate buildings as opposed to demolishing them and starting from scratch. For this purpose, there is arguably no greater material than metal.
Given the extremely long lifespan of metal, a metal building that served as a community center for several decades can easily be converted into a warehouse during a different era with little demolition and reconstruction required to make the transition.
Recyclability
Even though rehabilitation is getting prioritized in contemporary construction projects, in the event that a building does need to be demolished, metal is a recyclable product. Repurposing for future use, giving it yet another leg up over other products in the continued shift to sustainable construction.
Build with Metal and Reap the Advantages
Metal is one of the best building material choices for a wide range of construction projects. Features such as elite durability, ease of installation, energy efficiency, low lifetime costs, ease of repurposing, recyclability, and versatility are just a few of the advantages of building with metal. Whether it be metal studs for framing, steel log siding, metal roofing panels, or even metal wire mesh for creating a stunning exterior facade, build with metal and start reaping the advantages today!
Roger Marx is a contributor to the Innovative Building Materials blog. He is a content writer for the construction and home improvement industries. He has an interest in landscaping, outdoor remodeling, and home renovation. Roger enjoys educating homeowners, contractors, and architects on innovative materials and methods of construction that increase property value and improve sustainability.