Pre-engineered metal buildings currently capture 71 percent of the market share in commercial construction in the United States, and 95 percent of the industrial market according to numerous studies. Pre-engineered metal buildings are able to be constructed 30 to 50 percent faster than other buildings constructed from any other materials, at a fraction of the cost.
According to Grand View Research’s 2019 report, expansion into the commercial and industrial markets will continue, with global sales predicted to reach $30.8 billion by 2025 up from $9.7 billion in 2017. The North American market should see a 13.9 percent growth rate during the next five years.
What accounts for this incredible success for pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMB)?
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Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings No Longer Have to Look Like a Barn
Steel framing allows for the use of any conventional façade including stucco, brick, stone, cement board and tilt-up concrete. In addition, rigid-frame steel buildings go up perfectly plumb and remain stable for the lifetime of the building.
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Steel-framed Buildings are Strong and Durable
Steel has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of all common building materials. It takes far less steel to create a strong building. A PEMB holds its value and appearance because no building material lasts longer than steel.
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The Strength of Steel Provides a Sturdy and Safe Structure
The steel’s strength enables a sturdier and safer structure than wood framing and provides additional protection during violent storms and earthquakes. Steel is non-combustible which reduces fire risk, something no wood structure can claim.
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Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings are Flexible
Pre-engineered metal buildings adapt to virtually any size or use from gigantic warehouses or commercial aircraft hangars to small and mid-sized buildings like a backyard workshop to a busy grocery store.
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Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings are Ready to Erect
The factory-built building arrives ready to be assembled. Steel’s great strength means fewer pieces to assemble to the frame compared to what is needed for a typical wood framing. Steel columns are usually spaced at 25-foot intervals compared to wood studs that are placed 16 inches apart.
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Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings Allow for Consistency in Framing
Steel never shifts or changes shape due to moisture levels and does not get mold, mildew or rot like wood.
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Steel is Readily Available
Even with recycling and reforestation efforts, the quality and quantity of lumber available is an issue. Steel is the most recycled material in the world and never loses its strength when recycled.
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Metal Buildings are Efficient and Economical
The design and manufacturing process for PEMBs is very efficient and is economical with an excellent insulation system to keep down utility costs and fire-resistant qualities to reduce insurance costs.
K-Con Inc. is a full-service design-build general contractor specializing in commercial, light-industrial and government construction. K-Con Inc. serves commercial and government entities in Charleston and across the United States. Please contact us today to see how we can best serve your needs.