When an earthquake strikes, much of the damage, injuries and fatalities are caused from the effects on buildings and other structures. An earthquake can move the earth side to side and up and down, and traditionally built buildings often can\’t handle the impact. Shock waves of movement snap wood and crumble concrete, and entire buildings sometimes fall to the ground, depending on the power of the quake. Metal buildings are an alternative to traditional construction that offers more in the way of strength when an earthquake comes along. When metal buildings take the place of a traditionally built structure, the difference after an earthquake can be dramatic.

The primary issue with traditional buildings and earthquakes is the side-to-side movement during the quake. All buildings are designed to withstand a certain degree of up and down force, or they would simply fall down on top of themselves. Snow and ice build up on buildings in the winter and people live inside the buildings and it is never a problem. However, unless side-to-side loads have been taken into consideration during the engineering phase of construction, a traditional building will be in trouble when a strong earthquake hits.

When inevitable aftershocks hit following an earthquake, buildings can literally vibrate until the structure gives way and collapses. Traditional construction and materials can\’t handle the sideways force that is imposed as the earth shakes. When metal buildings are used in the same areas, this side-to-side damage isn\’t as likely to occur.

Another issue with construction that threatens buildings during an earthquake is the type of soil the building is built on. When a building is put up on softer soil, the shaking of an earthquake can cause it to sink and slump down in to the earth. Taller buildings built on soft ground may even remain intact, but completely fall over during the earthquake. The taller the building, the more likely this is to happen, especially if something has caused the soil underneath to soften even more than it already was. Constructing metal buildings on solid ground is an effective way to limit the damage from earthquakes, which can potentially save millions of dollars and lives every time an earthquake strikes.

Using sustainable products during the construction process is becoming more and more desirable, as more and more people want to associate themselves with all things ‘green’. Green construction practices may be used for office buildings, industrial buildings, retail centers or even backyard garages, storage sheds or workshops. The meaning of the terms ‘green’ and eco-friendly may vary when referring to construction depending on the person, but most would agree that they include using materials that don’t harm the environment. This may include using materials that haven’t been taken from nature, or using processes that don’t harm the environment or using materials that are largely recycled. Many people who seek to use green building principles wouldn’t consider using metal buildings to be included in the discussion, but they certainly should be.

With metal buildings, the frame of the building itself is able to yield or bend slightly at the areas of highest stress. This means that there is a higher likelihood of the building withstanding the side-to-side force that destroys a traditional building. Metal buildings that use steel beams as part of the construction retain their strength, while at the same time giving a little to each shock wave following the quake.

For ease of construction and optimal strength, create custom-designed metal buildings that meet your needs.

For ease of construction and optimal strength, create custom-designed steel buildings that meet your needs.
http://www.steelbuildingco.com/

Author Bio: For ease of construction and optimal strength, create custom-designed metal buildings that meet your needs.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: steels,constructions,business,design,real estate,industrial