Concrete vs.

Steel
Concrete possesses a high compressive strength and is not subjected to
corrosive and weathering effects. Concrete can be easily handled and moulded into
any shape. Concrete can even be sprayed in and filled into fine cracks for repairs by
Gunting process.
In reinforced cement concrete (R.C.C), concrete and steel form a very good
combination because the co-efficient of expansion of concrete and steel are nearly
equal. Construction of all types of structures is possible by reinforcing the concrete
with steel. Even earthquake-resistant structures can be constructed. Cinder concrete
can be used as a sound proofing material. Where strength is not a main requirement,
but fire-resistance, insulation and light weight are major considerations, light weight
concrete is advantageous. The concrete can be pumped and hence it can be laid in
difficult positions also. Form work can be used a number of times for similar jobs
which results in economy. Concrete is economical in the long run as compared to
other engineering materials. Frequent repairs are not needed for concrete structures
and the concrete gains strength with age.
Concrete being an ideal construction material, it does have following
disadvantages. Concrete has low tensile strength and hence cracks easily.
Therefore, concrete is to be reinforced with mild steel bars, high tensile steel bars or
mesh. Concrete expands and contracts with the changes in temperature. Hence
expansion joints are to be provided to avoid the formation of cracks due to thermal
movements. Fresh concrete shrinks on drying. It also expands and contracts with
wetting and drying. Provision of contraction joints is to be made to avoid the
formation of cracks due to drying shrinkage and moisture movements. Concrete is

not entirely impervious to moisture and contains and contains soluble salts which
may cause efflorescence. This requires special care at the joints. Concrete is heavy
in weight and requires large quantity of steel in the construction as the self-load is
greater.
Steels are alloys of iron and other elements, primarily carbon, widely used in
construction and other applications because of their high tensile strengths and low
costs Some advantages of Steel are Steel construction of buildings is very fast and
less expensive when compared to buildings of other materials. It provides consistent
material quality. It simplified the foundation construction. It provides for straight walls,
square corners, and allows doors to open and close properly. Its Inorganic; it will not
rot, split, crack or creep.. Nowadays Steel constructions are placed in the top list
because it safeguards the buildings against damages in case of climatic effects like
earthquakes and more. The steel constructions will act in an expected or dependable
way to survive when earthquake occurs. It can be easily designed or revamped and
even effortless to transport. Here is an advantage for steel is that it never breaks,
shrink or twist. Steel are high quality, aesthetic, lower maintenance costs, noncombustible to fire. Steel is environmentally friendly. Components can be used again
and again. The scraps of steel are recyclable Steel components are frequently
functional. Steel construction is strong, durability and stability.
Steel

construction

promotes

good

design

and

safety.

Construction with Steel is sustainable to Temperature effects. Steel frame

construction is rigid in structure and dimensionally stable. Steel can be re-used
without effecting the environment. Construction with Steel components is very fast
compared to other materials. Steel construction of buildings with steel components is
resistant to termites and other destructive insects. Steel constructions are cheaper

than any other construction methods. Steel construction is a fast method of

construction
Some of the major flaws of steel are maintenance cost of a steel structure is
very high. Due to action of rust in steel, expensive paints are required to renew time
to time. So that resistance against severe conditions increases. If steel loses its
ductility property, than chances of brittle fractures increases. Steel have very large
variations in tensile strength than this lead steel to more tension. Due to which steel
tensile properties graph falls down.