Why Metal? The Difference Between Metal and Traditional Building Materials

Metal materials have benefits in every aspect of a building’s construction. Highly durable, lightweight, and available in countless colors, metals give you total design flexibility to help your building stand out. Metal can also lengthen the life of your building, regardless of whether you’re installing an entire metal roof or just adding details like metal soffit panels. Douglass Colony has been using metals for decades to create and enhance builds of every kind. We have a wide range of expertise and can help design, create, and install metal wall panels, composite panels, sunscreens, and light gauge steel trusses. We believe metal materials are the best choice for a building structure, rather than other traditional materials. Here’s why:

Durability and Longevity

Metals

Metal is renowned for its exceptional strength and durability. Unlike other materials, it is impervious to common threats such as pests, rot, and extreme weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for the diverse weather patterns found in Colorado. For instance, steel and aluminum can withstand heavy snowfall, hail, and high winds without compromising structural integrity. Metal has a significantly longer lifespan compared to many traditional materials; when properly maintained, it can last several decades, reducing the need for frequent replacements and repairs. This longevity translates to lower overall lifecycle costs for building owners, making metal a wise investment.

Traditional Materials

While wood, brick, and concrete possess their own forms of durability, they often come with increased maintenance requirements. Wood is prone to rot, termites, and warping, necessitating regular treatments and inspections to ensure its integrity. Brick can withstand weathering but may suffer from cracking and moisture penetration over time, while concrete, though strong, can be susceptible to cracking under extreme temperature fluctuations. This often means additional investments in repairs and maintenance, which can accumulate over time.

Sustainability

Metals

Metals are among the most sustainable building materials available today. Their high recyclability means that, at the end of their life cycle, they can be processed and repurposed without losing quality. This not only reduces waste but also conserves natural resources. Moreover, metal buildings can easily incorporate energy-efficient designs, such as reflective roofing that minimizes heat absorption and contributes to lower energy costs. These features align perfectly with eco-conscious building practices, providing both functional and environmental benefits.

Traditional Materials

While traditional materials like wood are renewable, their sustainability is often compromised by overharvesting and deforestation, which can disrupt local ecosystems. Concrete production has a significant carbon footprint, largely due to the energy-intensive processes involved in its manufacturing. Although innovations like carbon-capture technology are emerging to help mitigate these environmental impacts, they are not yet widespread. Therefore, while traditional materials have their merits, the sustainability of metal materials is often superior in the context of modern construction.

Design Flexibility

Metals

One of the most compelling advantages of metal is its design flexibility. The material can be shaped and molded into a variety of forms, allowing architects to create sleek, modern designs that push the boundaries of traditional construction. With minimal structural supports required, metal facilitates expansive open spaces that can be tailored to meet specific functional needs. Customizations, such as curved panels and a wide range of bold colors, are easily achievable, enabling builders to realize unique visions that reflect their style and brand identity.

Traditional Materials

While traditional materials are often favored for their aesthetic appeal and timeless charm, they can be more limiting in terms of design innovation. Projects aiming for a classic or rustic look can certainly benefit from the warmth and texture of wood and brick; however, achieving unique designs with these materials often requires intricate craftsmanship and skilled labor. This can lead to increased costs and longer construction timelines. In contrast, metal’s inherent versatility allows for both striking modern aesthetics and traditional looks, making it a powerful choice for a wide range of architectural styles.

So, Why Choose Metals?

Our commitment to quality and innovation sets us apart in the industry, allowing us to stay ahead of trends and incorporate the latest technologies into our designs. Whether you’re looking to achieve a sleek, modern look or maintain the timeless appeal of traditional architecture, we have the skills and knowledge to bring your ideas to life.

Let us help you harness the benefits of metal materials, ensuring durability, sustainability, and unmatched design flexibility for your next construction project. Contact us today to learn how we can transform your vision into reality!