Types of Steel Grades used in construction of Pre Engineered Buildings

PEB structures are gaining momentum nowadays due to their top-notch advantages and the types of steel material used in them. In this blog, we will briefly about the types of steel grades and how they help in achieving the steadiness of the building 

Steel Grades play a crucial role in determining the strength, durability, corrosion resistance, and overall performance of a structure. Here are the main types of steel grades used in the PEB structures.

1. Mild Steel (Grade IS 2062)

This grade is commonly used in pre-engineered buildings.  It is also known as structural steel.  Some of the key features are


  • Yield strength: 250 MPa (Fe250), 350 MPa (Fe350), and 410 MPa (Fe410)
  • Good weldability and ductility
  • Used for columns, rafters, beams, and frames


 2. High-Strength Low-Alloy Steel (HSLA)

This grade of steel has higher strength than mild steel but is lighter in weight. Common grades are ASTM A572 Grade 50 and IS 2062 E350​. 

Key features include

  • Better corrosion resistance and toughness
  • Ideal for large-span PEBs where reducing weight is crucial.


​ 3. Galvanized Steel (GI)

  • Coated with zinc to prevent rust
  • Used in roofing sheets, wall panels, purlins
  • Grades: ASTM A653, IS 277
  • Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and long-lasting

4. Cold-Formed Steel (CFS)

  • Made from thin sheets of steel by rolling or pressing
  • Used for secondary members like purlins, girts, and bracing
  • Grades: IS 801, IS 811, ASTM A1003
  • Lightweight and high strength-to-weight ratio


4. Stainless Steel

  • Contains chromium for excellent corrosion resistance
  • Used in special applications like cold storage, chemical plants, or high-moisture environments
  • Grades: 304, 316
  • More expensive, used selectively in PEBs


Choosing the Right Steel Grade Depends On:

  • Load-bearing requirements
  • Environmental exposure (corrosion, humidity, etc.)
  • Budget constraints
  • Life span expectations


Advantages Steel Grades offer: 

Steel coatings play a critical role in enhancing the durability, strength, and long-term performance of Pre-Engineered Buildings (PEBs). Coatings act as a protective shield, safeguarding steel from environmental damage and improving the structural lifespan. Here's a breakdown of how steel coatings help:

 1. Improved Durability

Steel coatings, such as galvanization (zinc coating) or paint-based systems, protect the steel surface from moisture, chemicals, and atmospheric pollutants. This prevents:

  • Rust and corrosion
  • Metal fatigue
  • Surface deterioration


Result: PEBs retain their strength and appearance for decades, even in harsh climates like coastal, industrial, or high-rainfall zones.


2. Enhanced Structural Strength

While coatings themselves don’t increase the core strength of steel, they:

  • Prevent degradation of the steel surface over time
  • Maintain load-bearing capacity by avoiding section loss due to corrosion
  • Ensure consistent performance throughout the building's lifecycle


 Result: The steel frame remains structurally sound without weakening over time due to corrosion or weathering.


 3. Long-Term Performance & Low Maintenance

Coated steel components require minimal maintenance compared to uncoated ones.

  • Longer intervals between repaints or replacements
  • Resistance to UV damage, chemical exposure, and thermal cycling
  • Reduced total cost of ownership over the life of the building


Result: Increased ROI and lifecycle value, especially for industrial, warehouse, and commercial PEB applications.


 4. Types of Protective Coatings in PEB

  • Galvanized Coating (Zinc): Excellent corrosion resistance for roofing sheets, purlins, and girts.
  • Epoxy or Polyurethane Paint: Durable for frames in humid or chemical-exposed areas.
  • Powder Coating: Uniform finish with high resistance to scratches and fading.
  • Alu-Zinc (Galvalume): Combines aluminium and zinc—ideal for high-heat and coastal regions.


 Why Coatings are Essential for PEBs

  • Protection: Shields steel from corrosion, weather, and wear
  •  Performance: Maintains structural integrity over time
  •  Cost-Efficiency: Reduces repair, repainting, and maintenance costs
  •  Sustainability: Extends the life of the structure, reducing material waste



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