Stainless steel has been changing the world since it was invented back in 1913. Its use became widespread very quickly as numerous applications for this metal were discovered in the areas of construction, food service, automotive, medical, and more.
Stainless Steel and Construction
The effects on the construction industry have been most profound, though, with stainless steel used widely throughout the industry in a variety of ways, says Stainless Europe. Stainless steel often forms the essential support structure of many large buildings, as it is one the few materials strong enough to handle massive load bearing requirements and remain durable in weather conditions year-round.
Stainless steel is used extensively in even minor construction applications, for components as varied as ventilation ducts and door frames to handrails and backsplashes. Stainless steel is used so predominantly because it is so reliable. With little maintenance needed, this metal can last for many years without the builders or property owners worrying about corrosion.
What’s Better Than Stainless Steel?
Before beginning a construction project, engineers, builders, and property owners will want to consider the best materials for the task. They may be trying to balance factors like cost, longevity, durability, and strength when choosing their materials.
Stainless steel is often preferred for key parts of construction projects because of its cost effectiveness. While aluminum and iron may be cheaper, stainless steel is often seen as a better value. It is less likely to corrode and need to replacement in a decade like other metals might. Its dependability gives property owners peace of mind, knowing that they can expect the stainless steel to hold up to just about any kind of environmental conditions and to work well in instances where other materials might not be up to the task.
Some materials offer advantages over stainless steel in specific areas. Aluminum and uPVC cost less, but they are not as durable and as low maintenance. Carbon steel is tougher but not as adaptable and flexible as stainless steel. Stainless steel is even tougher than titanium, and it is less likely to deform from wear and tear. Stainless steel can handle the kind of abuse that would cause other metals to corrode, indent, or buckle, and that is the level of reliability that building project managers and property owners prefer.
The cost savings over time and general reliability of stainless steel make it the best choice in many construction projects. If the budget can accommodate it in the areas it is most suitable, stainless steel is often the best choice. Click here to learn more about the types of stainless steel you can buy.
Stainless steel outperforms most other metals in areas of temperature and corrosion resistance. Weathering can damage many types of metals over time, but stainless steel can withstand extreme conditions beautifully, and that is a key advantage it has over most other metals used for the same construction projects.
