Most factories and warehouses in industrial cities are built as steel hangars, so much so that the hangar has become the stereotypical image of a factory. But it is not an absolute rule; some activities and buildings suit concrete better, and many successful factories combine the two systems. The right decision depends on the spans required, speed of construction, fire and insulation requirements, expansion plans, and total cost over the factory's life. This is a practical comparison of steel hangars and concrete buildings for factories to help you decide, with the hybrid solution and design tips.
The Technical Reference
The Saudi Building Code includes a code for steel structures (SBC 306) and one for concrete structures (SBC 304), along with the loads code (SBC 301) and the soils and foundations code (SBC 303).
Comparison
| Item | Steel hangar | Concrete building |
|---|---|---|
| Wide spans | Excellent, without many internal columns | Limited, needs more columns |
| Speed of construction | Faster as elements are prefabricated | Slower due to formwork, pouring and curing |
| Expansion | Relatively easier | Harder |
| Fire resistance | Needs protection depending on requirements | Good by nature |
| Thermal insulation | Depends on insulated cladding panels | Higher thermal mass |
| Maintenance | Corrosion protection and monitoring | Usually lower |
| Overhead cranes | Easily designed into the frame | Possible with special design |
When to Choose Steel?
Production halls and warehouses with large spans, and projects that need speed and future expansion. Read: Warehouse design.
When to Choose Concrete?
Multi-storey office buildings, areas with higher fire requirements, and some activities needing thermal mass or high chemical resistance.
The Common Solution: Hybrid
A production hall with a steel frame, and an office and services building in concrete. This combines the speed of the hangar with the durability of concrete where needed. Read: Concrete or steel structure.
What to Consider in Hangar Design
- Wind and dust loads and panel fixing.
- Overhead crane loads and their effect on columns and foundations.
- Insulation with sandwich panels suited to the Kingdom's climate. See our energy efficiency design service.
- Fire protection according to classification. Read: Civil defense requirements for factories.
- Corrosion protection, especially in humid or chemical environments.
- Ventilation and daylighting through roof openings.
Total Cost, Not Just the Frame Price
Compare the cost of the frame, foundations, insulation, fire protection, construction time (and what earlier production means), and maintenance over the years. Read: How structural design affects cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a steel hangar always cheaper?
It depends on material prices, spans, and fire protection and insulation requirements.
Does a hangar need strong foundations?
Foundations are designed on the loads and the soil report, including wind and crane loads. Read: The soil investigation report.
Can a mezzanine be added inside a hangar?
Yes, with an independent structure or one linked to the frame, and a review of fire and exits.
How long does a steel hangar last?
It depends on manufacturing quality, protection and maintenance; a well-protected, well-maintained hangar serves for decades.
Does a hangar suit food factories?
Usually yes, with hygienic internal finishes. Read: Food factory requirements.
How Abak Engineering Consultancy Helps
Abak is an accredited engineering office that compares the options for your factory on total cost, and designs steel hangars, concrete and hybrid buildings to the Saudi Building Code and MODON's guides. See our factories and warehouses design service, or contact us.
Regulatory information is based on the Balady platform and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, and procedures may be updated by the competent authority. Last reviewed: October 2026.