Steel has been used for about 200 years and is commonly used for which two building components?

• A. Columns and beams
• B. Foundations and walls
• C. Roof trusses and joists
• D. Windows and doors

Answer: (A)

Steel is favored for structural framing because of its high strength-to-weight ratio and ductility, which let slender members carry large loads and absorb energy without sudden failure. In a typical steel-framed building, the two components that form the structural skeleton are the vertical members that transfer loads down to the foundation and the horizontal members that span between them to support floors and the roof. These columns and beams work together to create a strong, flexible frame capable of withstanding gravity loads, wind, and seismic forces.

Foundations and walls are usually concrete, masonry, or other materials, while roof trusses and joists can be steel or wood depending on the design. Windows and doors are openings with frames, not the primary load-bearing elements of the frame.