Office: 239.348.7060...Fax: 239.455.3406...Cell: 239.287.2985
Text and Photos Copyright 2007 ARC Steel Homes, Inc.......3281 GOLDEN GATE BLVD. W. NAPLES, FLORIDA 34120 USA..
environmentally friendly, of exceptional quality
and on the cutting-edge of the construction industry.
SAFETY IN Strength AND STABILITY
Steel has the highest strength to weight ratio of any building material; 25 times greater than wood. It does not warp, split, twist, swell or shrink in reaction to moisture content. Steel is dimensionally stable and will not “settle.” As opposed to wood, the steel manufacturing process ensures consistent strength. Steel has a higher ductility, therefore being capable of undergoing changes of form without breaking while absorbing high stress loads as in an earthquake or extreme wind velocity. Connections within a steel frame structure are less susceptible to fail or weaken over time because there is no material shrinkage or decrease in strength of aging base material.
SAFETY IN NON-COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS
Steel framing is non-combustible. It does not burn. Structural steel members in a fire will eventually deform and reach a critical point of failure, but they will not provide additional fuel nor perpetuate fire growth. The fire rating mandated by code is consistent and does not fluctuate, as is often the case with wood.
SAFETY FROM HIGH HEAT AND COOLING BILLS WITH PROPER INSULATION
Though steel is more heat-conducive than wood, proper application of insulation materials to surround the steel reduces the rate of heat transfer and nullifies any warm-weather heat concerns. The insulation used is non-combustible and does not produce smoke nor toxic gases when subjected to elevated temperatures. These insulation materials are long-lasting, have uniform characteristics and sufficient bond strength and durability to resist weathering and erosion. ARC uses expandable foam insulation, which also strengthens walls as it creates a solid plane, and at the same time acts as a superior sound baffle. The costs of this type of insulation from a life-cycle perspective will usually be lower because their benefits continue much longer over the life of the home.
SAFETY FROM HIGH MAINTENANCE
Insect, humidity and mold Damage
In warm, wet regions such as Florida, wood structures suffer billions of dollars of damage yearly from mold, termite and other insect infestation. Steel is impervious to insects, and because it is not porus, does not offer host cavities for mold to form, thereby eliminating the worry of structural damage.
