Steel Beam vs Concrete: All You Must Know

Engineers must make smart decisions at every turn to ensure the seamless execution of projects. One of the most important decisions they must make is choosing construction materials. All factors considered, steel beams and concrete are the most popular choices. They offer many benefits, making them truly worthy contenders. Scarboro Steel Works Inc., based in Scarborough, Ontario, is a trusted supplier of steel beams. In this blog, we share our thoughts on this topic, providing insights for engineers, contractors, and architects. Read until the end to make an informed decision.

Steel Beam vs Concrete: The Ultimate Construction Material

Understanding Steel Beams

They are the backbone of countless construction projects in Canada. Here are some of its common benefits that make structural steel the perfect construction material.

-Resistant to bending and shear forces
-Ideal for carrying heavy loads with minimal structural support
-High strength to weight ratio
-Immense scope for prefabrication
-Highly durable/Corrosion resistant
-The most sustainable construction material
 

Applications of Structural Steel Beams

-Bridges spanning great distances
-Industrial facilities, warehouses, etc.
-Residential and commercial high-rise buildings
-Stadiums and arenas

Understanding Concrete

The compressive strength of concrete has made it a popular choice for many years. Its ability to bear a heavy load under vertical pressure is commendable. However, it is not without its drawbacks. We list below certain areas where concrete is placed behind steel beams.  

-Not sustainable or recyclable
-More expensive
-Lower tensile strength
-Not as flexible
-Labour-intensive/cannot be prefabricated
-Lesser architectural freedom

Most engineers use a mix of steel and concrete to get the best results. You must work with skilled steel fabricators to ensure the best results. It is important to source steel from trusted suppliers to ensure quality and consistency. 

 

Conclusion

Scarboro Steel Works Inc. is a one-stop destination for all your steel requirements in Ontario. Talk to our experts today to learn about all we can do for you. We also offer flawless structural steel fabrication services to clients in Toronto and the GTA. Call 416.751.5033 to place an order or get a free quote today!