Steel buildings are sturdy, durable, and lightweight. But, builders still need to use certain techniques and tools to ensure they remain stable over the long-term. The I beam is one popular way to achieve this goal. Here, the team at Magna Steel Sales, serving Westport, CT, and the surrounding areas, lists a few reasons these are used so frequently in structural steel construction work.

Why Are I Beams Used in Structural Steel Constructions?

1. Prevent Buckling

In the event of a collision, earthquake, or high winds, an unsupported building might buckle under the impact. If this occurs, the safety of everyone inside would be in jeopardy. Contractors utilize I beams, which are shaped like the capital letter “I,” to ensure no portion of the building is compromised.

2. Allow Some Flexibility

Although buckling is an extreme occurrence that compromises the structure of a building, steel must still be flexible enough to absorb the weight of an impact, even if it’s just from the wind. I beams have a flat top and bottom and a long, thin beam down the middle; this shape allows them to move a bit rather than being too rigid.

3. Stop Vibrations

Without I beams, the structural steel building you live or work in would be more likely to vibrate whenever construction took place outside or a heavy truck passed by. This would be irritating and disruptive to your quality of life. I beams prevent vibrations and ensure the structure you are in remains still.

If you require steel for a commercial or residential project, turn to the team at Magna Steel Sales. They offer a warehouse stocked with a large inventory and have been in business since 1984. In addition to selling top-quality products, they also drill and weld steel, among other services. To learn more, call them today at (203) 888-0300 or visit them online.