How Long Do Steel Frame Buildings Last?
Global developers are increasingly using structural steel for building projects, with the market increasing by nearly 5% annually. The majority of construction growth in the United States centers on the manufacturing and commercial sectors, and steel offers excellent performance in these industries. One of the biggest selling points is how long steel frame buildings last compared to traditional construction materials.
What is the Typical Lifespan of a Steel Frame Building?
The lifespan of structural steel depends on a variety of factors, such as the building site and local weather conditions. On average, a steel frame building lasts 50 to 70 years with proper maintenance. In some places, this type of construction can last 100 years or more.
These days, steel frame modular construction is versatile, allowing developers to choose from a wide range of interior and exterior materials. Metal wall cladding and roofing provide outstanding durability, often lasting 40 to 50 years before requiring repairs or replacement. There are also special protective coatings that extend protection against UV rays, corrosion, and other damage.
Steel Frame Structures Versus Other Building Materials
Structural steel isn’t the only long-lasting building material that developers can use, but it stands out because of its unique combination of advantages. Steel frame structures are strong and moisture-resistant, but they’re also affordable and easy to maintain.
Reinforced concrete also lasts for ages with proper care, and concrete slabs are often used as the foundation of metal modular buildings. The main downside of using concrete for commercial and industrial projects is how long the construction process takes. This also drives up labor costs significantly compared to steel frame buildings.
What about conventional wood frames for commercial buildings in the United States? Wood can be a long-lasting building material, but it’s extremely vulnerable to moisture damage, mold, and pests. It’s rare for wood homes and businesses to still be in good condition after 70 to 80 years — and remodeling typically requires expensive renovations.
What Factors Affect How Long Steel Frame Buildings Last?
Even though modular steel constructions have many advantages, they’re not completely impervious to wear and tear. It’s important for architects, developers, and business owners to carefully consider several factors that determine how long steel frame buildings last in practical terms.
Permanent or Temporary Construction
Some modular steel buildings are designed for temporary use, allowing for fast setup at concert venues, auto shows, construction projects, and similar short-term uses. Temporary steel frame buildings work well as concessions stands, merch shops, sound booths, security booths, and operational centers.
Repeated teardown, transportation, and setup can take a toll on the structure’s lifespan compared to a permanent steel building. There are more opportunities for workers to cause damage, such as scraping protective coatings. The good news is that modular construction means that businesses can replace damaged sections with minimal time and expense.
Structure Quality
Not all steel frame buildings use the same beam dimensions, grades, and configurations (though all must meet local building codes). To ensure that constructions last a long time, it’s necessary to choose a manufacturer with a reputation for quality. During the design phase, engineers select steel beams based on span length, expected load requirements, environmental considerations, and building purpose.
Proper Installation
Even the best structural materials won’t last long if they’re not installed correctly. Pre-engineered steel structures have an advantage in this area with their simplified assembly process, but it’s still crucial to work with licensed building professionals.
Even though individual modules generally have electrical and plumbing ready, it’s necessary to make the finished connections correctly. Leaking pipes can damage steel buildings.
Preventive Maintenance
Beware of any company that promises a “zero-maintenance” pre-fab structure. It’s true that steel frames, cladding, and roofing usually require less frequent maintenance than wood beams or asphalt shingles; however, periodic checks and preventive care are always essential. Noticing and correcting minor damage quickly can prevent expensive repairs for many decades.
Local Environment
Over time, exposed steel becomes vulnerable to rust. To prevent this, steel surfaces need good protection from the elements, such as corrosion-resistant paint. In warm and dry climates, keeping a steel building in excellent condition is easier, which explains why so many data centers use this type of construction template.
On the other hand, areas with temperature extremes are harder on metal buildings. Freeze-thaw cycles and heavy snow can expose surfaces to excessive moisture. Coastal regions with salty air or sand can cause abrasion and speed up corrosion.
These problems don’t automatically hurt the lifespan of steel frame buildings, though. They merely require extra maintenance, usually periodic cleaning and repainting.
Business Operations
Some commercial and industrial operations can affect building components. Steel frame buildings are a cost-effective solution for everything from airplane hangars and automotive repair shops to warehouses and cold-storage facilities. But architects must take the purpose of the building into account to avoid corrosion from condensation, industrial chemicals, sparks, and abrasive materials.
How Can Businesses Maximize the Lifespan of Steel Frame Buildings?
Taking care of a steel building isn’t overly complicated. Developers, property managers, and business owners can help steel frame buildings last longer by following some basic best practices.
1. Prepare the Site Correctly
Steel frame buildings need stability and support. The site should be level, well-compacted, and graded for good drainage. For permanent buildings, any concrete slabs should have solid footings.
2. Keep Moisture Away From the Building
Trim any landscaping so it doesn’t touch the building’s exterior or prevent airflow. Clear dead leaves away from the base and keep gutters clear.
3. Check Building Surfaces Several Times a Year
Depending on the local climate, it’s good to visually inspect the building before and after winter. Look for leaks, cracks, hail damage, or holes from rodents.
4. Wash Exteriors Regularly
Washing steel buildings helps flush away dirt, debris, mud, and salt. This reduces the risk of corrosion and surface scratches.
5. Fix Scratches ASAP
Touch up any exposed steel quickly. Schedule a full repaint every two to four years on average.
Learn More About Long-Lasting Steel-Frame Buildings
At Roxbox, we take quality seriously. Our expert engineering team designs steel frame buildings that withstand the test of time. We also create custom modular buildings for any development project. Request a quote today.