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Concrete and steel are the most popular materials in commercial buildings. Working with these materials opens up almost endless size, layout, and building type options.

However, people are considering new factors when planning new construction. Choosing cost-effective construction materials that can stand up to environmental challenges is important. In today’s world, building materials must have the ability to withstand strong winds, fire, extreme temperatures, and more.

So, which material is a better pick: red iron steel or concrete? This article will explore the pros and cons of these building materials to help you make the right choice for your project. You’ll also learn where to find the highest-quality red iron buildings.

Reach out to the team at Titan Steel Structures to explore pre-engineered steel buildings. You can also contact our team to get a quote for a custom-designed structure.

What is Red Iron?

Red iron steel is a structural steel coated in iron oxide. This specialized iron oxide coating creates a waterproof barrier that guards the steel against rust and corrosion.

Red iron steel is a natural resource that allows people to construct larger, more durable structures. These buildings can withstand heavy loads of snow, drenching rain, floods, and more without warping, bending, or swelling. The unique coating means your building will resist mold, rot, and other moisture-related issues. These can help you save money on costly maintenance or repairs over your building’s lifetime.

Red iron steel isn’t just waterproof. It also resists pest infestation and fire. The durability of steel and the protective iron oxide coating result in an ideal building material for many projects. Steel buildings maintain their integrity in a wide range of climates and conditions.

Red Iron vs. Concrete: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Concrete and red iron steel buildings are among the most popular construction types. Here is a look at the pros and cons of these popular construction materials.

Concrete: Pros and cons

One of the benefits of concrete is its weight. Concrete weighs about 150 lbs per cubic foot, which can mean easier transportation. However, concrete has a lower strength value than other construction materials, including steel.

Another benefit of concrete is that it is fireproof. Concrete can withstand intense heat for hours without losing its structural integrity.

Generally, concrete has a 50-100 year lifespan.

One of the downsides of concrete is that it can crack or peel when exposed to temperature changes. It is also vulnerable to erosion from rain and saltwater, causing cracks, expansion, and crumbling over time.

Red iron steel: Pros and cons

One of the most significant benefits of steel is that it is incredibly strong. Steel is a heavier building material. However, it has high compressive and tensile strength to match. This results in an excellent strength-to-weight ratio.

Steel is also a fire-resistant material. Steel-framed buildings also use innovative techniques to prevent damage during extreme temperature fluctuations.

Red iron steel structures (steel buildings made of iron oxide-coated steel) resist water damage. They won’t warp, leak, or rust, even in heavy rain or damp conditions. It also has unique anchor bolts that keep it firmly connected to its foundation.

Steel is not just one of the most durable construction materials. It is also one of the most cost-effective options. Choosing steel can help you save money for decades to come. You’ll spend less whether you need a simple pole barn or a large residential building with stick framing.

One of the downsides of steel is its weight. Although steel has a good strength-to-weigh ratio, its weight can be a downside of this material. However, the weight of steel also contributes to its strength and durability.

Red Iron or Concrete Building: Which One is Right For Me?

Red iron steel buildings have several benefits over concrete structures. Here are some of the most significant advantages of choosing red iron steel.

Cost-effective

Steel is less expensive and construction is simpler, meaning your project will cost less upfront. Over time, you’ll also save money on energy costs, repair, and maintenance.

Versatile

Steel buildings use a clearspan design, meaning the interior space is unobstructed. A lack of support columns or walls means you can configure the interior to meet your exact needs. It is also easy to add onto a steel building, move it, or repurpose it as your needs change.

Low maintenance

Steel’s strength and iron oxide coating can reduce the risk of damage over time. This means you’ll spend less time and money maintaining or repairing your building.

Contact the experts at Titan Steel Structures to learn more about the benefits of red iron steel buildings. Learn more about why choosing steel buildings over concrete can help you save money and stress for decades to come.

Find High-Quality Metal Buildings

The team at Titan Steel Structures is ready to help you bring your steel building dream to life. Contact us today to get a customized quote or explore our high-quality pre-engineered steel buildings.