Steel is rapidly gaining popularity as a go-to material for residential projects, offering numerous advantages over traditional alternatives like wood and concrete. Its durability, strength, and lightweight properties make it an increasingly attractive option for builders and homeowners embarking on home improvements.
One of the most notable benefits of employing structural steel in residential construction is its resistance to fire, rot and pests such as woodworm. In addition, steel boasts impressive moisture resistance and can endure extreme weather conditions, making it the perfect choice for homes in the UK’s coastal regions.
The versatility of steel extends to a wide array of applications in residential construction, from steel frames and roofing to timber beam supports. It enables the freedom to create open floor plans and distinctive architectural designs that are challenging to achieve using conventional materials.
The increasing trend of incorporating steel in residential projects is set to continue as more builders, architects and homeowners recognize the true advantages of this material.
Steel Lintels
Structural steel lintels have become an increasingly popular choice over concrete lintels in residential projects for various reasons, offering homeowners numerous benefits when it comes to home improvements.
One of the primary advantages of steel lintels is their superior strength compared to their concrete counterparts. Capable of spanning larger openings without sagging or cracking, they’re perfect for supporting expansive window and door openings commonly found in modern residential construction.
In terms of durability, steel lintels outperform concrete lintels. They are built to last longer and demand less maintenance than concrete lintels, which can deteriorate over time, especially when exposed to harsh weather conditions. When treated correctly before installation, steel is Resistant to moisture, rust, and decay. This extended lifespan is a crucial factor for homeowners to consider.
Versatility is another key selling point for steel lintel usage. Steel lintels can be customized to accommodate vast sizes and shapes, while concrete lintels are generally restricted to standard dimensions and configurations. This flexibility enables steel lintels to be incorporated into a broader range of architectural designs, granting builders and homeowners greater creative freedom in their projects.
Finally, the ease of installation of steel lintels can’t be overlooked. Lightweight and easily transportable to the construction site, steel lintels streamline the building process compared to their heavier concrete counterparts, which may necessitate specialized equipment for installation. This efficiency can save both time and money during construction.
Other uses of structural steel in residential projects
Structural steel can be used in various ways in residential projects. Some of the most common uses we supply structural steel for in residential construction include:
- Structural framing: Structural steel can be used to create the main framing of a residential building. Steel framing is strong, durable, and lightweight, which makes it an attractive option for builders and homeowners alike.
- Beams and columns: Steel beams and columns can be used to support the weight of floors and roofs in residential buildings. They are strong enough to span large distances without the need for additional support, which can create open and flexible floor plans.
- Roof trusses: Steel roof trusses can be used to support the weight of a roof and provide a strong and stable structure. They are often used in larger residential buildings, such as multi-story homes and apartment buildings.
- Staircases: Steel can be used to create modern and stylish staircases in residential buildings. Steel staircases can be customized to fit the design of the building and are durable and long-lasting.
- Balconies and decks: Steel can be used to create balconies and decks in residential buildings. Steel balconies and decks are strong and durable, and can be designed to fit the style and design of the building.
Overall, structural steel is a versatile material that can be used in a wide range of applications in residential construction. Its strength, durability, and flexibility make it an attractive option for builders and homeowners.