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Whether you are looking at a major bridge, a skyscraper, or a residential property, there is a possibility that the structure came to life thanks to the availability of structural steel. Structural steel is one sect of fabricated steel, but it is perhaps one of the most important in the modern world. Structural steel is preferred over other forms of building materials because it is incredibly durable and has the ability to support an impressive amount of weight without breaking down due to the pressure.

While there are specific shapes available that most contractors and professionals will be looking for, structural steel can also be customized. Take a look at a few of the common shapes of structural steel and how they can be customized to better suit specific projects. 

Angle Beams (L-Beams)

Angle beams are one of the most commonly sought after types of structural steel. These beams have a basic "L" shape, which works really well for supporting further pieces in a structure. For example, angle beams can be run perpendicular to one another and other cross beams can be laid in a series to create a supportive foundation for a floor. These pieces can be customized by changing the angle or by reinforcing the angular joint, among other things.

I-Beams 

I-beams are just as they sound; if you look at the end, you will see a shape that resembles the letter "I". I beams are incredibly strong because of their shape, so they are often used as load-bearing beams in large structures. I-beams, just like other forms of structural steel, can also be customized in different ways to achieve various attributes. For example, you may need an I-beam that has wider top and bottom pieces that what is standard or you may need an I-beam that has a particular type of finish.

Steel Pipe 

Even though steel pipes are often used for other purposes beyond structure, such as housing utility and gas lines, these pipes an also be used for structural purposes. The rounded shape works well for support in some applications. These pieces can be customized in a variety of ways, including by creating seamless pieces of steel pipe that are far longer than usual and by adding finishes to give the steel pipe certain attributes. For instance, chromium can be added to give the pipes a more attractive stainless steel finish in builds where the pipes will be visible in the architectural setup.

To learn more, contact a custom structural steel fabrication service.