There are many different ways to construct a building, all dependent upon your design, budget, and purpose. Structures can be made of metal, wood, plastic, or many other things. The article below will discuss steel buildings and how they vary by type, giving the advantages, disadvantages, and basic structure of each type.

Quonset Hut

This is the simplest kind of all steel structures. The design is self supporting, with no interior posts or beams. The entire building will be in an arched shape. Older style models look like one complete arch, like a cylinder cut in half, whereas newer models have straight walls and an arched ceiling, similar to a mailbox. These kinds of buildings are generally used in warehouse settings where no insulation or interior decoration is needed. It is by far the cheapest type of structure, and is quite durable, both against weather and human interference. No heavy equipment is required to erect it, and it is easy to move if you only want a temporary building. Of course, it has its disadvantages in that it tends to be very limited in terms of size, as it gets very difficult to install if it gets too big. Also, since it looks rather unattractive, and doesn\’t fit into a residential area, zoning restrictions may be a problem.

I-Beam Buildings

This is the most common type that is made. They basically consist of steel beams placed vertically as trusses, with more steel pieces shaped like either the letter \”c\” or \”z\” places horizontally between them for added support. This whole thing is then insulated, covered in sheeting, and given doors and windows. This is a common industrial building due to being simple, it can be virtually any size, and it usually requires no interior posts to hold it up. It also does not require cement to be laid over the whole floor for a foundation, making it ideal for a structure such as a horse riding arena. It can come in different colors and be decorated to a degree. However, it is very limited in terms of shape. You are stuck with either a basic square or rectangle, and a very shallow roof slope. Because of these cosmetic limitations there are often zoning problems in residential neighborhoods. It also requires a lot of heavy equipment to erect.

Hybrid Buildings

These structures use both metal and wood to complete. They are by far the most versatile when it comes to shape and decoration. These buildings still have steel trusses, but the horizontal support pieces are made of wood. The sheeting on the outside can also be much more versatile, as it can be made of steel, vinyl, brick or many other materials. This is an excellent building choice when it comes to uses such as residences, businesses, or even churches. However, it is the most expensive. Also, if looks are not important it can be inefficient, as the metal is often slightly thinner and less durable, and the steeper ceiling slopes are less energy efficient.

As you can see, all these types have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are looking at steel buildings, be sure to evaluate what you want it for, how much you are willing to spend, and where to want it to decide what is best for you.

Author Bio: Get free price quotes from the leading steel buildings supplier —Future Steel Buildings. Get access to prefabricated metal buildings, advice and buying guides from Future Steel Buildings.

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