You may have noticed that more and more structures being built in Utah utilize steel. From agricultural barns to commercial buildings to residential complexes, steel structures have benefits in many applications. 

These advantages are especially stark when compared to traditional wood-frame buildings, which come with the risk of rot, pest damage, and fire. 

At MJB Welding, we want you to have everything you need to make an informed decision about what building materials to use for your project. That’s why we’re presenting this guide comparing wood and steel structures in terms of durability, safety, cost, and more. We’ll also explore why steel is becoming more and more popular in Utah and how to know whether it’s right for you.

The Rise of Steel Structures in Utah

So, why are more steel structures popping up throughout the state of Utah? This shift is due to a combination of many factors, including climate, local regulations, and the economy. 

Geography and Climate 

Utah experiences a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, from heavy snow loads and occasional storms to dramatic temperature swings and increased wildfire risk. Plus, the dry soil conditions and seismic activity impact foundation and structural demands. 

Because of this, builders increasingly prefer steel structures, which come with decreased fire risk, can handle slow loads, and require less maintenance. 

Building Codes, Insurance, and Regulations

Another contributing factor is legal red tape. Utah’s fire codes, wildland-urban interface rules, energy codes, zoning and permitting rules, and insulation requirements often favor steel structures over wood. Plus, regulatory and insurance incentives mean potentially lower premiums and better code compliance. 

Economic and Material Supply

The local cost of lumber and steel also play an important role. Wood prices are volatile, while steel prices are more predictable. Steel structures also require less maintenance, making their lifetime cost lower. 

Plus, with plenty of steel fabrication companies and metal building suppliers in Utah, there are more steel erectors and fabricators available than carpenters. 

Challenges and Considerations When Choosing Steel

Despite its advantages, opting for steel structures can have some challenges, as well. Depending on your project’s unique requirements, steel can be expensive; however, the ease of construction and lower labor needs of prefab steel buildings often offset the cost of materials. 

Additionally, because steel conducts heat and cold better than wood, steel structures need vapor barriers and strategic insulation. And not just anyone can work with steel — steel erection, welding, and fabrication require specialized expertise. 

Furthermore, just because local building, fire, and structural codes often favor steel designs doesn’t mean it’s always easy to ensure compliance. It can still be challenging to meet regulations. 

When to Choose Steel vs. Wood

So, how do you know when to choose steel over wood? There are a few things to consider as you navigate this decision and questions to ask yourself, including:

• Project type and function: Will the structure be used for agricultural, commercial, residential, or storage applications?
• Budget: Consider both the upfront and long-term cost projections to find options that meet your budget and give you the best value for your money.
• Climate: Does the structure need to be able to stand up to snow, wind, fire, or humidity? Plan for insulation and energy performance upfront. 
• Aesthetics: What aesthetic style does the client/buyer prefer, and what’s the best way to achieve it? Are aesthetics more important than function?
• Timeline: How quickly does construction need to be completed?
• Local labor and supply availability: What materials are readily available in your area? Are there local laborers with the necessary expertise?

Steel Structure Erection by MJB Welding

At MJB Welding, we’re experts in all things steel structure erection. Steel’s durability, long-term cost, safety, and performance make it perfect for building structures in Utah’s environment. Whether you’re looking for help with custom steel buildings or prefab steel structure assembly, our talented team is here for you. 

Our skills go beyond just assembling steel structures. We also offer a wide range of welding and fabrication services, from commercial and industrial welding to replacement part fabrication to steel product production. Whether you’re seeking repair services for your aging building or contractors for a construction project, we’re here to help. 

Contact us today to learn more about our services and explore the endless possibilities that come with steel structures.