Prefabricated steel buildings have seen increasing popularity in the construction industry across the world in recent years because of the numerous advantages they provide over traditional forms of construction. Designed and manufactured in an offsite factory site using precise measurements and undergoing stringent quality control, the prefabricated steel components required for construction are transported to the building site, where they are assembled using a fairly simple process. This construction methodology provides customers with a building that is constructed within a short period of time with no compromise on quality, strength, durability, functionality, or aesthetic value. One aspect of prefab steel homes that may worry customers is their ability to withstand extreme climates. However, the quality of materials used in construction and innovations and advancements in technology have been able to ensure the durability and longevity of steel homes even under harsh climatic conditions. The energy efficiency of the buildings can also be enhanced through energy modelling and simulations that can assess the thermal performance of the building under hot as well as cold climates.
Performance of Prefab Steel Homes in Hot Climates
Untreated steel tends to expand in hot climates which can affect the dimensions, strength, structural stability and aesthetics of steel structures. However, prefab steel homes use heat-resistant alloy steel and light gauge steel framing (LGSF) with a high melting point in construction which enables them to endure high temperatures without losing strength or stability. Ensuring that expansion joints used in the steel structures are accurately designed and correctly arranged also helps to minimize stress on the steel components and prevent bending and breakage due to expansion at high temperatures. Since steel roofing systems tend to absorb a lot of solar heat, reflective coatings can help reduce the amount of heat that enters the building and improve its thermal performance. Homes built in hot climates should have higher ceilings as rising heat tends to accumulate near the top of the room.
Performance of Prefab Steel Homes in Cold Climates
Prefab steel homes are perfect for cold climates since they come with superior insulation that helps to control the flow of heat, prevents the formation of condensation, and helps to control the level of noise coming in and out of the home. The heat that enters the steel building is prevented from escaping, thus keeping inside temperatures comfortable during winter while saving on energy costs. Prefab homes built in cold climates should be constructed with lower ceilings so that less room space needs to be heated to keep the room warm and comfortable. Another advantage offered by steel buildings during winter is the fact that pests, rodents, and other birds and animals who seek a warm and cozy shelter during the winter months will stay away from the prefabricated structures since they cannot be easily infiltrated.
Durability and Longevity of Prefab Homes in Extreme Conditions
Just like other forms of construction, building prefab steel homes in places with extreme weather conditions like severe storms and hurricanes, exceptionally prolonged and heavy rainfall, or sites prone to natural disasters requires careful planning and stringent adherence to design principles. The advantage of prefabricated homes is that the prefab steel components used for construction are designed with precise measurements and undergo vigorous quality control inspections even before being transported to the construction site. In geographies that witness strong winds, the prefab steel homes require an aerodynamic design with appropriately placed cross braces, horizontal braces and windshields that increase stability, provide structural integrity, and enhance load-bearing capacity. Prefab steel houses in areas prone to heavy rains, flooding and humidity require waterproofing and additional protective coatings of anti-corrosion paints. Using light gauge steel framing (LGSF) made of alloy steel that is weather-resistant can help to enhance the durability and longevity of the homes.
Prefab Steel Homes From Edge Neoteric
With constant research and development of innovative methods and techniques, Edge Neoteric Builders has been at the forefront of revolutionary advancements in prefabricated construction. The Light Steel Frame Construction using the very advanced QWIKNEXT technology and high-quality components in TUFFRAME has helped Edge Neoteric to provide practical and efficient solutions for building residential homes, high-rise buildings, corporate offices, and commercial buildings, industrial warehouses and factories, and many more, adhering to the specifications of their clients. The prefabricated steel buildings are aesthetic, strong, durable, long-lasting and can stand up to the rigours of climatic conditions.