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Writer's pictureBritney Heerten

Steel vs. Concrete

Updated: Jun 6

Steel


Pros:


  • Steel can span greater distances with fewer support columns and can accommodate large expanses of glass. If your business requires showroom windows, steel framing would be the better building method for you.

  • Steel is more flexible and has good wind resistance

  • "Steel has the highest strength to weight ratio among building materials, including concrete. Steel is eight times (8X) stronger than concrete in tension and shear; steel is resilient unlike concrete; and steel has better resistance to tensile, compressive, and flexural stress." - escglobalgroup.com

  • "Steel Structure is economical. Huge portion of the market supply comes from recycling, making steel much cheaper than other materials. Being lightweight, it delivers huge reduction in labor cost due to easier handling and transportation and faster installation." - escglobalgroup.com

  • Constructed off site - fewer workers are needed to construct on site

  • Made from recycled materials

  • Better for earthquake resistance

  • Faster construction

  • Steel is low maintenance

There are six basic mechanisms of failure for steel structures:

  • Ductile yielding

  • Brittle fracture

  • Buckling

  • Fatigue

  • Stress corrosion cracking

  • Creep.

Concrete

Pros:

  • Few "cracks" or joins that could cause heat to escape

  • Has a thicker barrier to prevent damage and penetration

  • Highly wind resistant

  • Resistant to corrosion

  • Durability

  • Energy efficient

  • More soundproof than steel

  • Versatility

  • Energy efficient

  • Low maintenance

  • Can be recycled

  • Can be sourced locally

  • Great fo underwater or coastal use

  • No light reflection


What Factors Causes Failure of Concrete Structures?

The main factors that affect the failure of concrete structures are:

  • Incorrect selection of materials

  • Errors in design calculation and detailing

  • Improper construction techniques and insufficient quality control and supervision

  • Chemical attacks on concrete structures

  • External mechanical factors


ny-engineers.com provides a concrete vs. steel comparison table:





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