In the quest for a greener planet, the construction industry plays a pivotal role. With innovations in design and materials, the sector is shifting towards more sustainable practices. One such innovation leading the charge is Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings (PEMBs).
In this blog, we’ll explore how PEMBs are shaping a sustainable future and paving the way for eco-friendly construction.
The Power of Metal Buildings
Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings (PEMBs) have revolutionized the construction industry with their efficiency and versatility. These structures are prefabricated off-site, allowing for efficient assembly on-site, which saves both time and resources.
From warehouses to offices, PEMBs offer a wide range of applications and come with numerous perks, including cost-effectiveness, durability, and design flexibility.
Going Green with PEMBs
PEMBs offer significant advantages in terms of sustainability. They are environmentally friendly and sustainable due to the use of recyclable materials such as steel and other metal components. This makes them an eco-friendly option for construction.
Additionally, these buildings are prefabricated off-site and then transported to the construction site, ready for quick and easy assembly. This contributes to their energy efficiency, making them a great choice for sustainable building projects.
Constructing with steel has a much smaller carbon footprint than traditional construction materials such as wood.
When building with wood it arrives in bundles and is cut as needed, leaving the excess to be discarded. Steel is the most recyclable building material, and its strength does not wear down, no matter how many times it is recycled!
Raw materials for PEMBs can be recycled and used repeatedly without a loss in quality. PEMBs are durable and able to withstand many destructive elements as a green building material.
The use of PEMBs is a cost-effective way to construct energy-efficient and low-maintenance buildings with a high return on investment.
Another reason steel is growing in popularity is its ability to meet the green building design codes and sustainability standards. PEMBs meet the requirements for the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) program by the US Green Building Council and the National Green Building Program.
Green Construction in Action
An example of green construction in action is highlighted in Butler Manufacturing’s, Micro Matic Beer Manufacturing Facility project.
Micro Matic was concerned with sustainability when it came to a new building with the main goal of minimizing the building’s environmental impact. The president of Micro Matic USA stated: “It is a high priority for us to reduce noise, ensure safety, and protect the environment.”
This project had to be LEED certified by including LED lighting, natural landscapes, sunshades, and water-saving restroom fixtures. Post-construction fuel-efficient vehicles get preferred parking, and smoking is prohibited within 25 feet of their facility.
The roof and wall systems implicated in this project, such as the MR-24 roof, created a tight seal that controls energy leakage keeping a comfortable environment for people working in the building. After completion, energy models predict the Micro Matic facility will perform 25% better than comparable buildings.
Successful green projects like this showcase the potential of PEMBs in sustainable development and inspire further adoption of green building practices to meet energy code compliance requirements and reduce overall operating costs.
Boosting Green Credentials
To further enhance their green credentials, PEMBs can integrate renewable energy sources such as solar panels for energy management.
Solar panels add value to the structure while reducing the energy bill. A typical return on investment for a solar panel is 15-20%, and the investment in solar energy continues to grow as utility prices continue to rise. PEMBs can support such additions indefinitely.
When you build with a PEMB, every piece of steel is designed and manufactured for your particular facility. That means there is next to no steel waste produced! The little bit of waste that is produced is still 100% recyclable. Steel is the only construction material that can make this claim as it is the most recyclable building material, and its strength does not wear down, no matter how many times it is recycled.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, trends and innovations in green construction continue to evolve.
Getting involved in sustainable construction initiatives and advocating for green building practices can make a significant difference in shaping a more sustainable future!
In conclusion, the rise of PEMBs marks a significant step forward in our journey towards a more sustainable future. Their efficiency, durability, and eco-friendly design set a new standard for construction practices.
Let’s work together to create a better future for our planet, powered by the potential of PEMBs!