When it comes to commercial construction projects, Rolled Steel Joist (RSJ) girders are known for their superior quality, versatile support, and strength. Since the late 20th century, steel beams of this type have been used safely and effectively in both commercial and industrial construction, and it is easy to understand why.
In modern times, RSJ beams have increased in popularity within the residential construction arena and it can be seen that they are used in the reinforcement of decks, patios and floors. Contractors enjoy using steel beams because they are durable, versatile, lightweight, and strong. Making steel is easier than it sounds, as the material can be easily bent and manipulated.
As the construction industry is becoming more aware of the use of environmentally safe materials and practices, steel is always the number one choice for projects, as it is considered a “green” material and does not emit greenhouse gases. . RSJ beams can also be recycled an unlimited number of times, resulting in less waste material filling landfills.
Compared to other building materials such as wood and concrete, steel beams are a much more cost-effective option and offer a host of benefits to the contractor, fabricator, and building owner.
Strong
As research has revealed, steel has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any building material in the construction industry. This means that steel is capable of supporting much more weight and tension without compromise than a beam that has the same mass but made of wood or concrete. Both residential and commercial builders choose to use RSJ beams in place of other materials.
In fact, in areas where natural disasters are prevalent, buildings are often constructed with a steel frame because they can withstand the worst of mother nature when other materials cannot. What would you rather live in during an earthquake or hurricane? A wooden structure or one containing RSJ beams?
Flexible
You may not know it, but steel beams are incredibly versatile. This material can be used and reused in various forms and architectural designs. Because steel is so flexible, beams can be easily bent, molded, cut, and shaped into many different lengths and dimensions. Because steel is so lightweight, framing a building is a much more basic process than using other materials.
In most cases, the steel beams are made of the highest quality material in the construction industry. However, a reputable company should be selected when choosing a contractor, as you want to ensure that the beams have undergone a series of tests to ensure their integrity.
Sustainable
Did you notice that in terms of durability, RSJ beams lead the way? Wood and concrete beams don’t stand a chance when it comes to the tough composition of the steel. Steel beams are fire retardant, cannot be damaged by termites and do not require chemical treatments. Also, when steel is galvanized, it will never succumb to rust.
Longevity
When it comes to withstanding the tests of time, steel is the answer. Many residential property owners choose to use steel beams on their decks and patios because RSJ components can handle the amount of weight applied to the structure. The load bearing design of the steel beams makes them virtually indestructible under constant leverage forces.
Accessible
You may not think that a material like steel is profitable, but it is. Compared to other popular building materials such as aluminum or titanium, steel is much cheaper in price. Because steel is a better building material in many ways, it is the number one choice for building owners in terms of affordability and effectiveness.