Aluminum Angle in Building Structures: 5 Key Takeaways
The choice of materials will always influence the durability, strength and versatility of any project. With all of the materials available, aluminum is one of the few that exceeds expectations. If you are looking for the top pros of the material, then read on to find out more.
- Cost Effectiveness
Angle Iron gained popularity for being cost effective in multiple scenarios. Although the aluminum variant can be more expensive than steel, that is only when you factor in the short-term. For long-term, aluminum angle iron requires less maintenance, is more durable and is much easier to install. All of the important factors of a high-quality build are tied into how reliable angle iron is on all levels. When you don’t have to worry about the integrity of the finished product, everyone wins.
- Strength-to-Weight Ratio
The exceptional strength-to-weight ratio is something that should not be overlooked. It is the most significant advantage of aluminum compared to other materials. Aluminum is lighter than steel, making it an ideal alternative in most situations. This same lightness leads to an easier installation when multiple aluminum angle iron pieces need to be moved at once. All of this low weight is achieved without sacrificing the strength required for heavy duty projects. You can expect better transportation, quicker assembly and a lot less strain on other parts when using aluminum angle iron.
- Design Versatility
When you need a versatile material that you can build with, aluminum is the way to go. It never forces you into a situation where you have to build around it – aluminum angle iron can be cut, welded, drilled and even formed into various shapes or sizes. Architects can spend more time creating designs that fit with the project instead of working around the deficiencies of a material like steel.
- Eco-Friendly
As more projects become ecofriendly from the start, aluminum angle iron jumps to the top of the ‘must have’ list. Sustainability is a growing concern, and not just in the construction industry. The best way to align with the ecofriendly trend is by leaning into the pros of aluminum. It is environmentally friendly, and only requires a fraction of the energy to go through the recycling process. When all professionals are on the same page, clean building practices are much more effective.
- Corrosion Resistance
By default, aluminum angle iron will naturally form a protective layer of oxide when exposed to air. This creates the perfect situation to make it resistant to the most common causes of corrosion. If your project is exposed to harsh weather conditions, aluminum angle iron can be the difference maker from top to bottom. Aluminum doesn’t rust, and will not cause the same problems you can expect when going with a steel build. Some of the biggest maintenance projects in the world are based around the damage caused by seasonal corrosion.
Finish Strong
Aluminum remains an invaluable material in the construction industry. Once you get familiar with its strengths, every project gains a measure of longevity. For traditional or modern project standards, the benefits go far beyond aesthetic appeal.
