Pre-engineered buildings: Exposing 5 common misconceptions

In response to the limitations of conventional construction, research and technology advancements facilitated the development of pre-engineered steel buildings.

Considering the vast array of benefits that these innovative structures offer, multiple facets of the construction industry widely use them, including commercial, residential, industrial, and agricultural sectors.

Even though pre-engineered buildings are becoming increasingly popular, one of the most common myths is that they are a modern construction technology. However, the concept of PEB was introduced in India after 1990 and has grown at a rate of 25-30% since then.

In light of the above misconception and many others that plague the PEB technology and prevent many people from taking action, we thought it would be helpful to address them. In this blog, we’ll unravel 5 common misconceptions surrounding PEB buildings so you can judge their brilliance fairly. Let’s get started.

Myth 1: Pre-engineered buildings  are not cost-effective

Pre-engineered buildings offer an average of 40% savings compared to conventional structures. The foundation work is carried out on-site simultaneously with the modules being built in the factory. This reduces construction time by half, and shorter turnaround times enable contractors to complete more projects with fewer workforce.

Also, since the structures are prefabricated in a factory-controlled environment, the need for additional fitting or cutting during installation is eliminated, resulting in significant reduction of labour expense. Furthermore, steel buildings have a lower insurance premium when compared to traditional materials such as wood or brick-and-mortar.

Myth 2: They are prone to rust

Metal is indeed susceptible to rust and corrosion, and so is steel. The concern over rust is also justified as steel buildings often face exposure to components that cause oxidation and rust.

However, manufacturers galvanise PEB buildings before installing them by applying a hot-dip metallic coating consisting of zinc-aluminium-magnesiu

m alloy. Galvanization extends the life of your building and requires little maintenance. In addition, adding this layer eliminates the possibility of

Myth 3: Their architectural flexibility is limited

There’s a good chance you must have driven past an LGSF building without realising it. Many people perceive steel buildings as unappealing, boxy, industrial-looking buildings with no aesthetic appeal.

Advanced curved wall panels and aesthetic details are now possible according to architectural drawings, thanks to new manufacturing techniques and technology, such as 3D modelling and BIM technology. These developments have improved the design possibilities of steel construction in terms of layout, textures, and so forth.

We at Nipani Infra and Industries Pvt. Ltd welcomes client creativity and offers customisations tailored to their needs.

Myth 4: There is no assurance of their durability or safety

Since manufacturers produce the components of prefabricated buildings off-site and then erect them on-site for assembly and erection, people consider PEBs to be unstable or structurally frail.

In reality, prefabricated buildings must meet the same federal, state, and local safety codes as conventional buildings. Thus, PEBs are subject to strict quality control and must adhere to ISO 9001 quality and ISO 14001 environmental standards. Additionally, the advanced machinery used to make them provides precision, and efficiency humans cannot match.

Regarding durability, PEB buildings can last for 25 years on average. In addition, due to their ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, metal construction lasts far longer than wood, stone, concrete, and other materials commonly used in construction.

Myth 5: They are pretty challenging to build

Manufacturers construct pre-engineered steel buildings off-site in a factory. They deliver the building components to the site in CKD (completely knocked down condition) and then bolt them together on-site. Built to exact design specifications and manufactured under strict factory conditions, the structures are ready for quick installation and assembly on-site.

Moreover, since PEB buildings are 25-30% lighter than conventional buildings, installation takes 45% less time.

Wrapping Up

There is no doubt that pre-engineered steel buildings are the future of construction with the continued technological advancements and consumers’ penchant for modern, reliable and rapid construction. In addition, prefabricated buildings offer a harmonious combination of reliability and affordability, making them the most popular choice among architects, engineers, and contractors.

It may not be possible to completely replace traditional on-site construction with prefabricated buildings, and some myths will always persist, but one thing is sure: they are here to stay.

Having said that, please let our team know if you have any myths holding you back from trying PEBs on your next project so we can address them.