Steel is extensively used in construction due to its long-lasting benefits such as durability and efficiency. Structural steel also provides the freedom for designers to be as creative as they want to build aesthetically pleasing building structures. There are various types of steel buildings and below we discuss 4 types of steel buildings which are popular.

 

What are the common types of steel buildings?

The common types of steel buildings are arch type, single-span rigid frame, multi-span rigid frame, and shipping container steel buildings. 

Arch type 

Arch type steel buildings or the Quonset huts are one of the popular types of steel buildings that are economical and easy to install. Quonset huts were one of the favorites of the military in World war 2. They have a self-supporting structure which means there are no interior supporting beams or posts and there is plenty of open space. These types of buildings are very strong and can be used for a number of different purposes such as workshops, garages, etc. 

Some of their disadvantages include the difficulty to install side windows or doors and the difficulty to insulate. 

Single span rigid frame

Single span rigid frame also known as a continuous frame is constructed by placing a single beam that is supported at either end. They provide high stability while allowing for large interior space without any interfering columns. They generally look box-like and are commonly used in the construction of churches, offices, auditorium, sports arenas, small warehouses, etc where open space is critical. For single-span rigid frame construction, the steeper the roof, the lesser headroom you will have around the sides of the building.

Multi-span rigid frame

Multi span rigid frame is also called column and beam construction. This type of construction avoids the limitations of single-span by allowing nearly unlimited building-size as it uses interior support columns for added strength. In multi-span, multiple roof peaks can run across the length and breadth of the building. There are columns to support the structure which are usually hidden within the walls. These are ideal if you need immense space such as in large warehouses, factories, etc.

Shipping container steel homes

This type of steel home is popular nowadays among the minimalist lifestyle lovers. They are created out of repurposed shipping containers. They are also used to set up self-contained coffee shops or boutique food outlets. They can also be stacked together and modified into an architecturally designed home featuring windows, deck, and stairs. 

 

What next?

If you are not sure which type of steel construction is ideal for your next steel project, contact us today and our experts can help you with taking that first step!  With more than 30 years of experience in the steel industry, Melsteel continues to build decade long relationships within the building and construction sector.

At Melsteel, we offer a range of services including fabrication, drafting, surface treatment, onsite delivery, and installation of steel. We have a huge and highly-skilled workforce to serve you with all your steel requirements and the quality of our products and customer service is top-notch.

Give us a call on 03 8794 3100 or send us an email to buysteel@melsteel.com.au  and see how we can help you get your steel project started today. You can download our latest steel prices here.

Ready to buy now? Buy steel online at Melsteel today!