Metal structures have been part of society as far back as the eighteenth century. These metal buildings were constructed in hopes of creating a structure that would be fire-resistant. In the nineteenth century, metal began to take on a much more prominent role as a building material than in centuries past. Whereas it was typically used for fixtures and accessories, it became common to find metal of some sort as the structural foundation for buildings. 

Metal would eventually begin to become even more prominent in architecture as the century advanced. In addition to being part of a building’s structure and hardware, metal soon became part of buildings’ ornate designs, including stairways, pillars, and even on the ceilings. Today, metal continues to be a leading material in both the structural elements of buildings, their ornate designs, and even the primary material for the building itself. 

Steel is the go-to metal for structures. Most buildings you enter today have steel incorporated in it somehow, somewhere. Steel is such a trusted product used for buildings because it is environmentally friendly and easily recyclable. It is exceptionally sturdy and cost-effective because it can be easily mass-produced relatively inexpensively. Steel is used to make buildings such as school portables, stadiums, and metal homes, just to name a few.

Aluminum is another popular metal used for creating structures. This metal came onto the building scene in the early twentieth century. It is a readily used material in construction for multiple reasons. It is exceptionally durable, and it weighs significantly less than steel while still offering strength and support similar to that of heavier materials. It’s corrosion-resistant, and it is very low maintenance. It is eco-friendly, as it is entirely recyclable. Also, it provides insulation, allowing the interior of the structure to retain heat or deflect cold. Skyscrapers are commonly built from this material, the most famous being the Empire State Building in New York.

First used as a building material in the late 1700s, cast iron is another material commonly used in structures. The reasons for its popularity in this capacity are vast. It can bear a significant amount of weight, it is fire and corrosion resistant, it is easily manufactured and can be crafted several different ways depending on how it is to be used, and it can be used in massive projects easily. One famous structure that employs cast iron in a significant portion of its composition is the dome of the Capital building.

If you are in the market for a metal structure and you are unsure of the best fit for your needs, contact Five Star Fab & Erectors. We have been in the business of building for the people of Indianapolis for over 25 years. We can work with you on designing and installing your new metal building from start to finish. We are trusted professionals with a reputation for providing excellent, knowledgeable customer service, and we want to help you with your next project. 

Whether you want an entire metal structure built, an addition to an existing building constructed, or anything in between, Five Star Fab & Erectors are THE choice to get the job done right, guaranteed.