Common Myths & Misconceptions About Metal Buildings In North Carolina

Indeed, metal is one of the most effective construction materials. You can use it for indoor and outdoor applications for residential, business, and industrial purposes. They are popular because they're highly durable and versatile. However, there are more myths and misconceptions about metal buildings than truths. If you own a metal building, you know its value. So, if you're considering installation of a metal building in North Carolina, you undoubtedly want to do your homework and make an informed decision.

Here, we'll look at some of the most common myths and misconceptions about metal building construction in North Carolina.

Truth Behind Myths & Misconceptions

The North Carolina climate is tough on buildings. With moderate winters, hot summers, and high humidity throughout the year, a structure must withstand these elements. In this regard, a metal building is a good option.

Since there are many myths about it, let's look at the truth behind these myths.

Myth #1 Metal buildings Will Surely Rust

Truth: Rust is an issue that plagues many metals. They indeed rust when exposed to moisture. However, with steel and other metal alloys used for metal buildings in North Carolina, rust is not a significant issue because the materials used are treated during manufacturing.

The modern steel structures are covered with a protective coating that prevents rusting. The coating acts as a barrier between the steel and water, keeping it safe from corrosion. That's why many metal buildings today are designed with rust prevention in mind by using high-quality material like galvanized steel for the framing, which is coated with a protective layer of zinc that helps protect it from rusting.

Myth #2 Metal buildings Are Breakable

Truth: This could be considered the most common myth about steel buildings. People think it must be easy to break because metal can be bent or shaped easily. The truth is that metal building is strong enough to withstand all weather conditions when a building component is manufactured correctly using high-quality steel. The materials used to create steel buildings are tested to make sure they can stand up to the elements without breaking down over time. In addition, many companies offer excellent warranties on steel buildings.

Myth #3 Metal buildings Are Dangerous in Fires

Truth: The steel buildings can easily withstand fire and high temperatures. Unlike wood structures, metal frames are non-combustible and will not contribute to fire damage or fuel a fire. Modern steel buildings have insulation that contains fire retardant properties to protect you and your belongings from fire damage. Thus, it also prevents abnormal the building's temperature during summer, winters, and in the events of fires.

Myth #4 Metal buildings Are Not Lightning Safe

Truth:  Metal has always been known for its conductivity, so many believe that a metal building is unsafe from lightening. But the truth is metal building will more efficiently protect you in the event of lightning. It is true because the metal building acts as positive conductors since lightning is negatively charged. Therefore, a lightning strike is diffused when it comes in touch with metal, and it will be directed to the ground.

Myth #5 Metal Buildings Interrupt Electronic Devices, Cell Phones, and Wi-Fi

Truth: Most people think that steel buildings interfere with electronic devices, cell phones, and Wi-Fi signals. However, steel buildings do not interfere with electronic devices or cell phones because electromagnetic waves can pass through them like other common structures.

Myth #6 Metal Buildings Can't Be Customized

Truth: Since the components of the metal building are prefabricated at the factory, people often think that you cannot build a structure that is suitable to your needs. It is another big misconception that metal buildings cannot be customized. But the actuality is metal buildings are completely customizable before and after the installation.

The best thing about the metal building is that you get an unobstructed space when you opt for a clear span design. It is because of the higher strength–to–weight ratio of steel which is why no columns inside the structure are needed to support it. In addition, these buildings are available in different sizes, colors, designs, and more. Thus, you are free to build your dream building with metal.

Myth #7 Metal Building Are Expensive

Truth: Metal buildings are lightweight and prefabricated structures, so less material is used and produces little waste than traditional structures. There might be chances that the upfront costs of metal building are higher, but you will save a good amount of money if you see it from the perspective of the long run.

Prefab steel buildings are known for their durability as they are solid and well-designed, requiring less maintenance than traditional timber buildings or concrete construction. It results in saving your money on maintenance and repair costs. In addition, installing a metal building is so easier that it requires less labor or no labor if you can put up your structures yourself. Therefore, you save your money and time on labor and clean-up. As the needs change with time, you can easily add on and change the layout of your metal building with minimal cost in the future. 

Myth #8 Metal Building Are Noisy

Truth: Because metals have the property of producing deep sound, people have the misconception that it is noisy. The truth is metal buildings are insulated so they won't be loud and make echoes during the hailstorm. Thus, metal roofs and walls won't sound terrible inside the building during hailstorms.

In conclusion, now that you have reached here, you've got that truth behind myths and misconceptions about metal buildings in North Carolina. If you were planning to buy the metal structures but were unsure of putting your money due to these myths and misconceptions, you can feel free to invest in them. Metal building is the perfect structure for residential, commercial, agricultural, or industrial uses.