TWS Calgary, is currently working on a project to add a structural steel level to a Shoppers Drugmart building in Downtown Calgary. This new level will be constructed using huge steel I-beams that have been fabricated at the TWS Calgary welding shop and will be erected on site. Structural steel is an ideal building material for heavy structures like this due to its strength, durability, and versatility. Here are some of the assets of structural steel that make it a great choice for building:
- Strength: Structural steel has a high strength-to-weight ratio, meaning it can support heavy loads without being excessively heavy itself. This allows for larger spans and greater open areas in buildings, making it ideal for large commercial and industrial structures.
- Durability: Steel is highly resistant to corrosion, weathering, and pests such as termites. It is also non-combustible and does not rot or warp like wood, making it a low-maintenance option for building structures.
- Flexibility: Structural steel is highly flexible and can be fabricated into almost any shape, making it an ideal choice for complex building designs. It is also easy to modify or add to existing structures, allowing for future expansion or renovations.
- Sustainability: Steel is a highly recyclable material, and most structural steel used in buildings today is made from recycled materials. It is also energy-efficient, as it can be used to create buildings with high insulation values, reducing heating and cooling costs.
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There are many reasons why structural steel is a popular choice for building heavy structures like the Shoppers Drugmart. Here are a few:
- Speed of construction: Structural steel can be fabricated off-site, which allows for faster construction times and reduced on-site labor costs.
- Cost-effectiveness: Structural steel is a cost-effective building material, especially when compared to other heavy building mediums like concrete.
- Design flexibility: The flexibility of structural steel allows for greater design flexibility, making it easier to create unique and complex structures.
- Safety: Steel is a highly fire-resistant material, which makes it a safer choice for buildings where fire safety is a concern.
In summary, the assets of structural steel make it an ideal choice for building heavy structures like the Shoppers Drugmart in Calgary. Its strength, durability, flexibility, and sustainability make it a cost-effective and safe building material that allows for greater design flexibility and faster construction times.