Rain, sometimes, can challenge the robustness of any building type. If you have a plan to begin a building project during the rainy season, the most important question that arises is whether your steel is prepared for the rain or not? A lot of people neglect this point; however, a check of the condition of your TMT steel prior to the start of the work can prevent you from facing huge problems.
Steel is the base for any construction of a building. It makes the structure stable and strong. TMT steel is globally preferred among all other types of steel because of its hardness, ductility, and wear resistance. Nevertheless, even steel is subject to environmental reactions. The rainy season causes the air to have moisture, which implies that there is a greater likelihood of the rust appearing. Corrosion is only one step from becoming a big problem that will make the steel become less strong; thus, it is very important to perform quality and storage inspections during the monsoon season.
Moisture from the air will collect on the surface of steel bars. If these are not stored correctly, rust spots will be visible in a matter of days. A little rust that goes on the surface may not be dangerous, yet if it goes deep, it will decrease the strength of the steel and its ability to bond with concrete.
For concrete and steel to properly bond, the latter must be corrosion-free. Rusted steel parts, which have peeling and rough areas due to corrosion, will result in reduced grip, and they will also cause weak bonding that will allow fissures in the concrete structural parts to develop gradually.
If corrosion is allowed to continue, the metal will be thinner in the cross-section. Thus, the capacity of the metal to carry a load will be lower. The building in such a state will be able to carry a certain amount of lesser loads, which could cause safety issues during heavy rain or flooding in the locality.
On every TMT steel bundle, perform a check before you start using it. Bars ought to be of a smooth surface, having well-defined ribs. Stay away from the ones that give you the impression of being rusty in a deep patch area, scaling, or with tiny cracks.
High-quality steel is always subjected to various tests. You must ensure that the product carries a reputable certification or a mill test certificate. Such a certificate will guarantee that the steel fulfills the basic strength and ductility standards. An oral promise should not be your only security.
One way to quickly check the ductility of a TMT bar is through a simple bend test. The bar is bent at a really sharp angle. A good quality one will not give off any cracks, and it will be bent easily. If there are small cracks on the surface of the bar, it is an indication that the bar can fail during heavy work.
In a case when the steel was lying at a certain place for several weeks, you need to find out the way it was kept. The steel should be laid on wooden planks or raised platforms, and not placed directly on the ground. A good cover, like waterproof sheets or a tarpaulin, will shield the steel from rain and moisture in the air.
Always make sure the bars are stacked at a minimum of six inches from ground level. Such a practice avoids any direct contact with water and soil.
Use waterproof fabrics that permit air flow. If the cover is entirely airtight, it can hold water vapor inside. Remove the cover partially to facilitate air passage.
Do not cover and forget about the steel. Every few days, check the condition of the steel. If you notice small rust marks, brush them off with a wire brush before the rust areas become bigger.
Use the old stock first. The new bundles that have just been delivered should be set aside for later use. In this way, the aging of the steel will have a minimal chance of rust formation.
Despite the hard times brought about by the monsoon, TMT steel is still the most desirable choice for building. Its heat resistance, power, and versatility make it great for all kinds of house and office work. When compared to usual mild steel bars, it can endure pressure better and have a longer lifetime. Thorough checking and correct storage are the main factors. If you are careful during the rainy season, your building will be secure for years to come.
The monsoon is definitely not a cause for postponing your construction plans; however, it is a factor that requires you to take precautions. If you want your TMT steel to last a long time, it is an absolute must to do a complete inspection and storage of your steel. Your project is prone to damage from rain, but that is only if you have not taken the necessary precautions. With proper care and use, your metal will be of good quality, and your building will be durable for years to come.
