What material is commonly used for tower construction?

Steel is commonly used for tower construction due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, which allows for substantial height and stability without adding excessive weight. This makes steel particularly suitable for telecommunications towers, which need to support antennas and other equipment while being resilient to environmental factors like wind and seismic activity. Additionally, steel can be easily fabricated into different shapes and sizes, allowing for versatility in design. Its durability ensures longevity and resistance to rust, particularly when treated or galvanized, making it ideal for outdoor installations.

While aluminum is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, it does not offer the same structural strength as steel for tall towers. Wood may be used in some applications but lacks the necessary durability and strength for high towers. Concrete can be very strong but is typically used for foundations rather than the structural framework of tall telecommunications towers because of its weight and the complexities involved in erecting it at height.