Strength is one of the top priorities in construction. The structure should be able to withstand the wear and tear that occurs naturally with time. However, severe weather and natural calamities can shake the core.
There are many cases throughout history when these elements were successful in bringing down a building. We can do little against calamities like earthquakes of big magnitude, but some materials/products can increase a building’s chances of surviving.
Concrete
Nothing seems to match the strength and reliance of concrete in this industry. It has been in the book for a long time. Concrete is a mix of materials into which water is added. The water starts a hydration reaction, turning a dust-like mixture into a solid.
Concrete has formidable strength. Not just that, this is one of the few materials that increase in strength. This makes it quite resistant to strong winds and debris. Since it is a mix, it is easier to transport as well. Severe weather can cause the concrete to spall. Spalled concrete can be fixed with these tips.
Steel
One of the most common materials in construction is steel. While concrete is strong, it is a tad too rigid for some projects. We can form construction-grade steel into beams and plates to support the structure.
Steel has the physical property of ductility. This means it can bend to an extent before breaking. This property increases the flexibility of the building, which can be challenged during a calamity.
Rocking Frame
The rocking frame has a combination of reinforced steel, structural plates, and strong wires. The braced frame distributes the shock that hit the building.
They may sway on their foundation. Steel’s ductility is used to the system’s benefit. The bumpers at the bottom restrain extreme movements, whereas the vertical components give the self-centering to counter the sway.
Reinforced Glass
Glass is not used often, but some clients turn to it for the aesthetic quality it brings to the structure. Annealed glass is a standard glass that is not strong to withstand powerful elements.
We advise using reinforced glass (also known as toughened glass). Reinforced glass is made by treating glass with heat and other chemicals. The finished product has better resistance to hot and cold weather. Statistically, it is said to be four times as strong as normal glass. If in case it breaks, the pieces will have blunt edges to decrease the risks of accidents.
Flexible Pipes
No matter the size, we use piping in every building. Pipes with a fixed structure can break under heavy load.
We can use flexible pipes in place of regular pipes. Under increased pressure, it bends or expands to disperse the pressure evenly over itself. This leads to fewer cases of it breaking. Problems with piping can lead to major damages as hidden piping leaks water that weakens the building.
These options make the building structurally stronger. Strength is also one reason contractors choose stone for building.
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