Steel Vs Timber: Why choose a steel structure over timber?

When building a structure, the materials are an important component in the construction of a structure. This is why finding the best material is critical when determining which is best for the type of structure you are constructing. When weighing out your options for materials, you're most likely looking for a material that is secure, long-lasting, and cost-effective. Because of these characteristics, Timber and Steel are excellent material choices for any type of structure. However, the fact that both are good options makes it much more difficult to choose between the two.

Due to the nature of Timber and its ability to mould in place, a timber frame is much quicker to assemble in comparison to steel. However, this comes at a cost: timber is much less sturdy and durable than steel, which provides a much more secure structure. Steel structures can last much longer than timber structures because of this. Steel structures can often last several decades, whereas timber structures only last a few years.

Steel’s durability and vitality is also due to its resistance to nature. Timber needs to be protected from termites and other insects, and if proper maintenance procedures, such as damp proofing, are not followed, the entire structure can deteriorate. As a result, timber has a higher maintenance cost than steel. However, this does not mean that steel is immune to nature. Steel can corrode slowly due to poor weather conditions.

By incorporating a steel structure into your home will increase the value of your property and provide potential property buyers with a sense of structural security.  Property buyers and investors are frequently more favourable to steel and find steel structures far more appealing than timber.

Because of the versatility of the steel fabrication process, structural steel frame buildings can be moulded into almost any shape. Timber, on the other hand, has much less shape versatility, making steel a much more viable option for a structure with a unique shape.

Despite timber being cheaper and a very viable option for a structure, in the long-run, the benefits of steel far outweigh the benefits of timber. Steel's durability and versatility make it the preferred material among fabricators and builders.