When you are building in a coastal area, the construction materials you are using can really make or break the long term durability of that project. One of the most crucial materials used in any construction project is the steel used in the concrete (in particular, the reinforcement bars, or rebars). In coastal locations, regular steel will corrode much quicker because of the salty air and high humidity conditions. So, if you are wondering why it is important to select the best steel for construction in coastal conditions, it’s not just important for the longevity of the project; it is vital.
In this blog post we are going to look into the benefits and importance of using corrosion resistance steel for coaster building projects, we will compare the different types of TMT steel bars, we will look at some of the prices that are related to steel bars and we will even take a look at the price of steel in Kerala at the moment. This will help homeowners, builders, and civil engineers choose the right products for constructing durable structures in coastal areas.
Moisture, salt-laden wind and high humidity are constant facts of life in coastal areas. These conditions can very rapidly accelerate the corrosion of ordinary steel reinforcement. When the steel reinforcing corrodes, it expands which causes cracks in the surrounding concrete. After a period of time, continued corrosion may lessen structural capacity and result in damage that may be costly to repair or could lead to structural failure.
It is vital to use the right type of steel, specifically engineered to resist corrosion, in order to provide for the long-term stability and strength of buildings in these locations.
TMT (Thermo Mechanically Treated) steel bars are widely considered the best steel for construction in coastal areas. Here’s why:
High-grade TMT bars are made to be corrosion proof. Recent advancements in manufacturing allow TMT bars to have high capacity for strength on the surface to protect against moisture and salty air – perfect for coastal areas.
TMT bars have the perfect ratio of tensile strength and bendability. as such, they are ready to take compressive loads, or even worse, seismic forces, and are perfect for those prone-to-earthquake coastal regions.
TMT bars can be bended and welded easily and without loss of strength, allowing adaptability in architectural design while maintaining safety compliance.
Premium-grade TMT steel bars also show excellent fire resistance and are suitable for high-rise or multi-floor construction in coastal cities.
All TMT bars are not alike. In coastal areas, we recommend you use the Fe500D and Fe550D grade TMT bars. The D stands for ductility, meaning the bars are capable of stretching without breaking. This helps tremendously in highly moisture-laden climates, where buildings will be subject to corrosion and shifting foundations due to wet or saturated soil.
Some manufacturers even provide corrosion resistant TMT bars with added anti-corrosive coatings or specialized chemical compositions as part of their standard offering for use in marine and coastal environments.
If you’re building near the sea, here are the top features your TMT steel bars must have:
Always ask your steel supplier if the bars are certified for coastal construction and whether they meet BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) norms.
The price of steel bars can vary based on several factors. Here’s what influences steel costs, especially in a state like Kerala:
The cost of iron ore, coal, and other raw materials directly impacts TMT steel prices.
Shipping steel to Kerala, especially to remote coastal area, can be an added expense to the base price due to transportation costs.
Premium corrosion-resistant steel or high-grade TMT bars (like Fe550D) usually cost more than regular bars.
Construction booms or government infrastructure projects can push prices higher due to demand.
GST, import duties, and other levies also contribute to the overall steel price in Kerala.
Here are a few practical tips when purchasing TMT steel bars for coastal construction:
Although high-quality TMT bars might be perceived as costs upfront, they offer savings as a long-term solution to limit maintenance and repairs. Structures built in coastal areas often degrade sooner if low grade and inferior materials are used in the construction process. Choosing TMT bars that offer corrosion resistance means the structure will remain strong for many terms ahead saving money, effort and lives long term.
When it comes to purchasing the best steel for construction, especially in coastal regions, selecting a trusted supplier is as important as choosing the right material. Coastal areas require TMT bars with high corrosion resistance, strength, and reliability.
If you’ve been looking for a trustworthy source to buy quality TMT steel bars in Kerala, Kenza TMT is one of the preferred options. The company has a proven track record of producing high-grade steel bars for humid and coastal environments. Kenza TMT aims to meet all safety and strength specifications for the TMT bars it offers for constructing long lasting structures.
Choosing the best steel for construction in coastal areas is not just a choice it’s a necessity. Coastal climates require reinforcement that is corrosion resistant as well as strong, and provides safety for years to come. TMT steel bars, especially Fe500D or Fe550D grade from reputable companies, provide the right mix.
While the price of steel bars isn’t irrelevant, the price of certified, corrosion resistant TMT bars provides peace of mind that your home or building can endure the challenges of a coastal environment. Depending on whether you’re building in Kochi, Kozhikode, or Kollam, always check the current steel price in Kerala and choose durability (and more lifetime value) over short term savings.
