Structural Steel & Reinforced Beams: Key Differences

Steel is a crucial component of almost any domestic or commercial construction project. However, several different forms of fabricated steel can be used throughout a project. The two main types of construction steel in question are structural steel and reinforcement steel, with each one containing specific variants that make them suitable for certain applications.

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If you are considering using structural steel beams or reinforcement beams for your build, it’s essential to know which type is most suitable. In this short guide, we’ve outlined the key differences between the two types of steel to help you get off on the right foot.

What are Structural Steel Beams?

Structural steel is an exceptionally robust, flexible and resilient material for constructing frames of buildings (see steel frame buildings) and other components. Steel beams can’t just be used for construction; they’re also widely used in engineering, manufacturing and other industries. 

There are many structural steel types, including universal beams (also known as I beams), universal columns, plates, channels, steel bars, tube, pipe and many other steel sections. Each type of structural steel comes with its own unique shape, dimension and cross-section, with the products being identified usually with a letter that refers to its cross-section shape. Here are some examples:

• Steel I beam
• Steel H beam
• Steel W beam
• PFC (parallel flange channel) beam, also known as C channel
• HSS (hollow steel section), which can come in square (SHS), rectangular (RHS) or circular (CHS) shapes
• Steel T bar
• L-shaped steel (see equal angle steel and unequal angle steel bars)
• Steel flat bars

Structural steel products are incredibly versatile and can be used alongside other building materials like concrete, bricks and timber. It is noticeably different from reinforced steel, which is the preferred choice of some builders.

What is Reinforced Steel?

Reinforced steel, sometimes known as reinforcement steel, is generally used alongside concrete and masonry to - unsurprisingly - strengthen the materials.

Reinforcement steel bars provide additional tensile strength, which concrete is known to lack but makes up for in compressive strength.

There are several different types of reinforced steel bars, such as:

• Hot-rolled deformed steel bars - the most frequently used type of reinforcement steel, with deformations on their surface that bond with concrete.
• Mild steel bars - these bars contain hooks at the end usually, without any ribs, and are generally used in small projects with concrete.
• Cold-rolled steel reinforcement mesh - these are hot-rolled steel bars that have undergone a cold-working process. These bars have a much lower ductility.
• Prestressing steel - this is formed from multiple bars that act as tendons throughout rows of concrete. These are cold-drawn and have high tensile strength, making them ideal for prestressed concrete projects.

Key Differences between Reinforced and Structural Steel Beams

These two principle types of steel contain particular physical properties that make them ideal for specific purposes. Structural steel beams are used primarily for shaping the edges of structures, while reinforcement steel bars vary as they’re used alongside concrete and masonry to strengthen it. 

Structural steel bars and beams require more resources and effort to develop, but their versatility, flexibility and simplicity of construction make them preferable by many.

Reinforcement steel structures are less influenced by ecological or climate conditions, as structural steel is more prone to rusting if not adequately finished, primed or galvanised. That being said, in reinforcing structures, the tensile strength of the solid parts is lower compared to structural steel sections, which remain more rigid when installed. 

The effort and time required to maintain and repair reinforcement steel are significantly higher than structural steel. The latter type of steel, once fixed effectively, requires very little - if any - maintenance.

Steel Beam Calculator

Buy A Beam is a simple-to-use shop for buying steel online in just a few clicks. Using our webshop, you can buy steel directly from local steel fabricators instantly, with the ability to customise your steel beams, bars and so on. Primarily, our steel suppliers deal with structural steel, although some of them may offer cost-effective reinforcing steel products.

A steel calculator is built into the Buy A Beam shop, where your prices are instantly calculated as you add products, alter sizes, add custom splice connections and so on. You don’t have to spend hours calculating the cost of each beam manually. 

If you are looking for the structural steel products we’ve listed above, order steel via Buy A Beam today to see what your local steel fabrication company can offer.

Building a residential structure in Australia using steel beams and columns can effectively ensure its structural integrity and durability. Structural steel is a popular choice for residential construction due to its strength, versatility, and resistance to fire and pests. Let’s explore the benefits and costs of using steel beams in residential construction and how structural steel is used to build homes across Australia.

Structural Steel & Residential Construction

As Australia’s leading steel supplier to the domestic housing market, it’s no secret that structural steel plays a massive role in building homes, buildings and all sorts of infrastructure in Australia. Using steel beams for residential construction offers several advantages over other materials: 

• Stronger: steel has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any current building material
• Stiffer: steel does not twist, warp, shrink or buckle

• Fire resistant: steel can reduce the risk of fire.
• Sustainable: steel is 100% recyclable. 

It’s so good; it gives timber structures a run for their money. And thanks to computer technology, cutting and fabricating steel for construction is more cost-effective and efficient. 

The Australian Steel Sector

The Australian Steel Institute (ASI) offers excellent insight into the nation’s steel sector, revealing the steel value chain's structure, capabilities and capacities. Approximately 1.5 million tonnes of steel are used in residential construction in Australia each year. Residential structural steel accounts for roughly 20% of the total steel used in the construction industry in the country.

The ASI notes that steel is popular for residential construction due to its strength, durability, and versatility. Steel beams and columns are commonly used in residential building construction to support walls, floors, and roofs. They can also be used to create large open spaces and to support heavy loads, such as in the case of multi-storey buildings.

Additionally, steel is often used in residential construction for its fire-resistant properties. It can withstand high temperatures without weakening or collapsing, which can help to prevent the spread of fires and protect the occupants of the building.

Overall, the use of steel in residential construction is a growing trend in Australia. The ASI expects this trend to continue as more builders and architects recognise the benefits of using structural steel in their projects.

Cost of Using Structural Steel in Residential Construction

While steel is a durable and versatile building material, steel beams for residential construction cost more than traditional materials such as wood or concrete. But wait, didn’t we just say structural steel is more cost effective and efficient? Well, the cost of using steel beams and columns in residential construction will depend on several factors, including the size and complexity of the project, the type of steel used, and the current market price.

However, it's essential to consider the long-term benefits of using steel in your building. Because steel is more durable and requires less maintenance than other materials, it can save you money in the long run.

Beams and Channels vs Columns and Posts

While steel beams, channels, columns and posts are commonly used in construction projects, these structural steel products have some critical differences.

Steel Beams and Channels

Steel beams and channels are typically used to provide horizontal support in a building's framework. Steel beams for residential construction are designed to carry loads across long spans and are commonly used in constructing walls, roofs, and floors. Steel beams are often used to support large openings, such as windows and doors, and can be used as columns in some applications. On the other hand, channels are mainly used for framing and can be used to support walls or as a track for sliding doors or other fixtures.

Steel Columns and Posts

Steel columns and posts are vertical structural members used to support the weight of a building's framework. Steel columns in residential construction are typically used in areas with large vertical loads or a need for additional support. Steel columns and posts can support the weight of the roof or the upper floors or reinforce walls. They are often used in multi-story buildings where the structure's weight requires additional support.

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Steel beams and channels provide horizontal support in a building's framework, while steel columns and posts provide vertical support. Structural steel products are essential in construction projects and are chosen based on the project's specific needs.

Structural steel products are dependable and will provide structural strength and integrity for a lifetime. Furthermore, because our steel is hot dip galvanised, the risk of corrosion is eliminated.

Types of Steel Used For Residential Construction

Several types of steel beams are commonly used in residential construction in Australia. Here's a closer look at some of the most popular options:

W-Beam 

W-beams are also known as wide flange beams and have a wide profile with a vertical web and two horizontal flanges. These beams are often used in residential construction to support large openings, such as doors, windows, and load-bearing walls and roofs.

H-Beam

H-beams are similar to W-beams but with a thicker vertical web and thinner horizontal flanges. They are commonly used in residential construction for load-bearing walls and roofs and for columns and beams in multi-story buildings.

I-Beam

I-beams have a narrow, vertical web and two horizontal flanges of equal size. They are often used in residential construction for load-bearing walls, roofs, columns, and beams in multi-story buildings.

T-Section Beam

T-section beams have a T-shaped profile with a vertical stem and a horizontal flange at the top. They are commonly used in residential construction for lintels, providing structural support for load-bearing wall openings.

L-Section Beam

L-section beams have an L-shaped profile with a vertical stem and a horizontal flange at the top. They are often used for multi-story buildings' lintels, columns, and beams in residential construction.

Channel Beams

Channel beams have a C-shaped profile with a vertical web and two horizontal flanges. They are commonly used in residential construction for framing walls, as well as for lintels and other structural supports.

Steel beams are generally valued for their strength, durability, and ability to support heavy loads. Using different types of steel beams in combination with other building materials, residential construction projects can be designed and built to withstand the specific demands of the environment and climate in Australia.

How to Incorporate Steel Beams and Columns in Residential Construction

Hire a Professional Engineer or Architect

Collaborating with a professional engineer or architect with steel construction experience is essential when incorporating steel beams and columns in your residential construction project. They can help you design a structure that meets your needs and is structurally sound.

Determine the Optimal Steel Beam and Column Size

The size of your steel beams and columns will depend on the size and design of your building. Collaborating with a professional engineer or architect is crucial to determine the optimal size for your steel elements.

Consider the Connections

The connections between the steel beams and columns are critical for ensuring the structural integrity of your building. Several connections are available, including bolted, welded, and riveted connections. 

Choosing the right kind of connection for your building design is based on the intended load-bearing capacity of the structure. For example, steel lintels are structural components installed over an opening in a wall, like a window or a doorway. Lintels support the loads above the gap and prevent the structure from collapsing.

Follow the Building Code and Safety Regulations

When incorporating steel beams and columns in your residential construction project, following the National Building Code and safety regulations in your area is essential to ensure that your building is structurally sound and meets all safety requirements. Structural steel must also comply with the relevant Australian and International standards, which you can learn more about on the Steel Builders blog.

The Steel Builders in Residential Construction

Steel Builders is your one-stop shop if you need structural steel for your residential construction project. With next-day dispatch across the Sydney metropolitan area, you’ll have all your structural steel products and builder’s hardware at your doorstep. And if you live or work nearby, select FREE pick-up from our St Mary’s or Belmore warehouse within 24 hours. And if you require more customised work, contact us today and get a quote for your next residential project.

FAQ

Q: Are steel beams and columns more expensive than other building materials?

A: Steel beams and columns can be more expensive than other building materials, such as wood or concrete, but they also offer several advantages, including greater strength, durability, and resistance to pests and fire. When considering the overall cost of a construction project, it's essential to factor in the long-term benefits of using steel.

Q: Can steel beams and columns be used in all types of residential construction?

A: Steel beams and columns can be used in many residential projects, from single-family homes to multi-unit buildings. Builders can use them to create various architectural styles and designs and combine them with other building materials for a custom look.

Q: How do I know what size and type of steel beams and columns to use for my construction project?

A: The size and type of steel beams and columns needed for a construction project will depend on several factors, including the size and shape of the building, the weight of the roof and other structures, and the load-bearing capacity of the soil. Collaborating with a qualified structural engineer or architect who can help determine the appropriate size and type of steel beams and columns for your specific project is essential.

Q: Can steel beams and columns be recycled after demolishing a building?

A: Yes, steel is one of the most recycled materials in the world, and steel beams and columns can be easily recycled after a building is demolished, reducing waste and conserving natural resources.

Q: Are there any environmental concerns associated with using steel beams and columns in residential construction?

A: While steel production does require energy and produces greenhouse gas emissions, steel is a highly sustainable and eco-friendly building material. Steel beams and columns are made from recycled materials and can be recycled again after demolishing a building. Additionally, steel is durable and long-lasting, which can help reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements that can contribute to waste and pollution.

Q: Do steel beams and columns require any special maintenance?

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