How Metal Buildings Outperform Traditional Construction in Extreme Weather

Heavy snow, hail, and strong storms test the durability of construction materials and methods like nothing else. Choosing the right building materials is essential to ensure safety, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. Metal buildings have consistently proven to outperform traditional construction methods like wood and concrete under these harsh conditions. Here’s why.

Superior Durability

Metal vs. Wood

Wood, while commonly used in traditional construction, has notable weaknesses. It absorbs moisture, leading to rot, warping, and structural weakness. Under heavy snow or rain, wood can buckle or degrade over time, requiring frequent repairs or replacements. On the other hand, metal buildings resist moisture entirely. Unlike wood, metal doesn’t decay, warp, or attract termites, making it a far more reliable choice for buildings in extreme climates.

Metal vs. Concrete

Concrete is undeniably strong, but its performance under extreme weather isn’t without flaws. It is prone to cracking due to freeze-thaw cycles, where trapped moisture expands and contracts during temperature changes. These cracks can compromise structural integrity and lead to costly repairs. Metal, however, is flexible and engineered to handle temperature fluctuations. Advanced metal systems, like Butler’s MR-24 roof system, are designed with features such as moveable roof clips, which accommodate thermal expansion and contraction without stressing the structure.

Performance Under Heavy Snow

When snow builds up on a roof, the weight can become a major concern. Traditional roofs, particularly those made of wood or concrete, are susceptible to collapse under excessive snow loads. Metal buildings are specifically engineered to handle these challenges.

Butler’s MR-24 roof system, for example, uses the Pittsburgh double-lock seam, which creates a watertight and exceptionally strong roof that can withstand heavy snow loads without leaking or buckling. Its panels are designed to expand and contract with temperature changes, further reducing stress on the structure. In comparison, wood and concrete roofs may not offer the same flexibility, increasing the risk of failure during heavy snowstorms.

Hail and Impact Resistance

Hailstorms are a common threat in many regions, and the damage they cause can be costly. Traditional building materials like wood siding and concrete surfaces often crack, splinter, or suffer significant aesthetic and structural damage from hail impact.

Metal buildings, by contrast, are far more resilient to such forces. Coated metal panels, such as those treated with Butler-Cote, not only enhance durability but also maintain their appearance after severe weather events. This coating resists chipping, cracking, and fading, ensuring the building remains functional and visually appealing for decades.

Wind Resistance

Metal buildings are known for their exceptional ability to withstand high winds, including hurricane-force gusts. Butler’s MR-24 roof system, for instance, boasts a UL Class 90 wind uplift rating. This certification demonstrates that the system can resist extreme wind conditions without structural failure.

Traditional roofs, especially those with shingles or tiles, are highly vulnerable to wind damage. Shingles can be torn off, leaving the structure exposed to water damage. In contrast, the integrated design of metal buildings ensures that panels stay secure and weathertight, even in the face of powerful storms.

Long-Term Benefits of Metal Construction

Longevity and Minimal Maintenance

Metal buildings require far less maintenance than their wood or concrete counterparts. For example, Butler’s metal systems have documented lifespans of over 40 years with minimal upkeep. In contrast, wood buildings often require regular inspections and treatments to prevent rot and pests, while concrete structures may need repairs for cracks and other damage caused by weather conditions.

Sustainability

Metal is a highly sustainable construction material. Many metal building systems are made from recycled materials and can be recycled again at the end of their lifecycle, making them an environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, metal buildings can help reduce energy consumption through highly reflective coatings and efficient insulation systems. Butler systems, for example, include options for cool roof finishes that reflect solar heat and reduce cooling costs.

Why Choose Metal Buildings for Extreme Weather?

When it comes to withstanding extreme weather, metal buildings stand out as the most durable, cost-effective, and sustainable option. From their ability to bear heavy snow loads and resist hail damage to their unmatched wind resistance and long-term performance, metal structures consistently outperform traditional materials like wood and concrete.

Interested in a metal building? Contact our parent company - MAR Building Solutions, Kansas City’s trusted Butler Builder.