Steel Construction Proven Essential During Lumber Shortage

January 26, 2021  

In 2020, many industries experienced shortages of essential goods and materials, hindering their operation and causing manufacturing to stall. One of the industries most heavily impacted was the construction industry, with many projects screeching to a halt due to the lack of lumber.

The article “The 2020 Lumber Shortage” from Construction Magazine Network explains how COVID-19 played a part in the shortage, as many wood treatment plants had to shut down after being deemed nonessential. With a lack of supply and restrictions of their own to deal with, the construction industry came close to a standstill as well. Luckily, there is an alternative to lumber that creates stronger, more long-lasting buildings: steel.

ClearSpan Structures are built with steel frames, eliminating the need for lumber and providing superior strength and durability in the process. Both ClearSpan’s fabric and metal buildings utilize steel frames—Truss Arch and I-Beam respectively—ensuring maximum strength and durability to construct a building with a long lifespan that will stand up to harsh and corrosive environments.

Truss Arch Frames provide businesses with a clear span design and maximum usable space, as they do not require internal support posts. These frames can be built up to 300’ wide and at any length, so businesses of any size can get the perfect structure for their operation. Truss Arch Frames are constructed with tripe-galvanized steel, which is corrosion resistant and ideal for even the harshest environments. Truss frames work best with ClearSpan’s fabric coverings, and are suitable for a variety of industries and applications.

I-Beam Frames are a strong and dependable frame option that work well with ClearSpan’s metal cladding. They are constructed from grade 55 steel, ensuring maximum strength and structural integrity without breaking the bank. The PPG painting system is available for I-Beam buildings as well, providing superior corrosion resistance and durability at an additional cost. I-Beam buildings can be constructed at any size, utilizing pre-engineered steel parts to fast-track the construction process and minimize installation costs. These frames do not use excessive steel, bringing costs down further so businesses can have one of the strongest and most dependable buildings without the hefty price tag.

All of ClearSpan’s buildings come with an industry-leading 50-year warranty on their frame. Businesses can rest assured that their buildings will last for decades to come with ClearSpan’s strong, durable and dependable steel frames. Businesses can even work with ClearSpan to design the perfect structure for their operation’s needs with endless customization options and knowledgeable and experienced ClearSpan Building Specialists.

For more information on ClearSpan’s buildings and frames, REQUEST A QUOTE today.