01 Feb How does the UK Weather Affect Structural Steel?

When structural steel – or any metal for that matter – comes into contact with water, it usually results in rust. We’ve previously explored the impact that rust can have on structural steel beams and buildings, which might make you wonder how Baker Steel Trading’s steel products perform so well in the UK. It should come as no surprise that the UK is known for its adverse and occasionally extreme weather conditions.

Baker Steel Trading are highly-qualified and experienced structural steel fabricators. We supply an enormous range of CE-marked steel products, both standard and bespoke, for domestic and commercial applications. Whether a universal beam or a fully-kitted steel frame building, all materials from Baker Steel Trading are of the highest quality, so you don’t have to worry about corrosion or our products letting you down. 

However, just for those concerned, we have compiled this small guide to give you peace of mind.

Weather and Structural Steel

In notoriously cold countries like the UK, many engineers or tradespeople may exercise caution with using certain materials in projects. The reality is that structural steel buildings are the best solutions to construct, particularly for cold-weather regions. 

Steel structures can withstand excessive rain, snowfall and below-freezing temperatures. Due to its excellent strength, resistance and load-bearing capabilities, steel is one of those materials that won’t let you down. 

While many people may let out a collective groan at deteriorating conditions of roads, pathways or sewage systems during periods of heavy rain or snowfall, that’s not without merit. Unlike structural steel ones, concrete structures can often be the victims of torrential rain and heavy water flow. Below are some of the primary strengths that structural steel has in cold and wet weather.

How does Weather Impact Structural Steel?

Heavy rainfall

Everyone is familiar with the UK’s regular heavy rainfall, which seems to happen all year round. As explained in our previous blog post, steel fabricators will ensure that your steel is as protected as possible from rust, which occurs whenever there is water, iron and oxygen in the same vicinity. Baker Steel Trading prime paint universal columns, beams and other products we supply, but another good idea is to potentially install gutters on your steel building(s). This makes it easier for diverting water away from the building itself.

High winds

Engineered steel buildings, which have been accurately and adequately designed and built, can withstand powerful gusts of wind. Structural steel does not bend or crack, no matter how excessive the wind’s force or speed. This is why, here at Baker Steel Trading, we offer 3D steel fabrication drawings to go alongside structural engineers’ drawings. This ensures every tiny component of the steel structure is appropriately planned and delivered, so it is as safe as possible.

Snow

Heavy snow loads can lead to leaks in roofs, water damage and more. Luckily, snow damage is easily preventable. A durable, robust roof structure will withstand large amounts of snow without succumbing to damage. Using steel in new construction can help enhance a roof structure’s performance. It’s impermeable in itself and offers an incredible level of strength and resilience wherever it is used.

Freezing temperatures

Structural steel conducts heat well, and as such, in steel buildings, warmth is distributed more efficiently than in concrete or wood buildings. Steel offers natural insulation, particularly for commercial buildings, which is excellent during the colder winter months.

Looking for High-Quality Structural Steel?

If what you’ve read has helped to alleviate some or all of your concerns, then why not get in touch with Baker Steel Trading today?

We are still working, closely monitoring the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions put in place, and our ability to provide you with reliable, CE-approved steel products has not changed. We can still carry out our added value services – such as mobile welding – if you need that extra assistance on-site. Our coded welders and steel fabrication specialists are available to assist and always comply with current government regulations.

If you require some steel, get in touch with one of our team for a free estimate. We’d be more than happy to help answer any questions you may have.