Please visit our website for more information on this topic.
When do you want to have your building delivered. In years past, we quoted most buildings to have drawings completed in 2 weeks and the building delivered 6 weeks after that for an 8 week total turn around. We wish we could get back to those days. With the huge demand on steel mills and steel products in general since , we have seen lead times continue to get longer and longer. As of the end of July we can offer two options for when you will get your building. In some locations we can offer 14-16 weeks, in other areas it's 30+ weeks. Depending on your situation, this may give you the time you need to do your clearing, dirt work, and work through the permit process. We are always up front with you on what to really expect so that you are not surprised later.
Steel Building Buyers Guide
Introduction
If you are reading this, you have at least given some consideration to erecting a steel building on your property. Perhaps you have a small business and you need storage for materials. Or you are looking for a private hangar for your airplane, paddocks for your horses, or just a hobby area&#;the possibilities are endless. And fortunately for you, the steel building options are just as unlimited.
Please take a moment to consider a few of the reasons that steel buildings are quickly becoming the answer to many space challenges in today&#;s world and why, per square foot, steel buildings far outscore other available options in durability, flexibility, economics, and just plain old-fashioned good taste.
If you are revisiting this page, you may have already done a little homework and have come to some very positive conclusions regarding steel buildings. Now you may want to know what all is involved in erecting one and what options you have available. Most of your questions will be answered in the topics below. So, please read on!
Why Buy a Steel Building?
Short answer? Because there is virtually no downside&#;plain and simple. Consider some of the facts about steel buildings, and then look at the advantages. What you need to know The long name for these structures is &#;Pre-Engineered Steel Buil&#; read more>> (link to WhyBuy page)
What Does the Project Look Like?
As with any building project, purchasing and erecting a steel building takes planning. As a rule, the better planned a project is, the more successful it will be. Let&#;s take an overall look at the process of installing a PEB on your property. Here we&#; read more>> (link to Project page)
What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done?
As with most projects, planning for a Pre-engineered Steel Building involves both broad strokes and details. Much of it comes under the &#;pre-thinking&#; category. These are the things you will face just shortly after you make your first &#;sketch on a na&#; read more>> (link to Planning page)
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
We&#;ve finally come to the part where you make your building your building. The options are so many and varied that you could safely say that no two buildings are alike. Let&#;s start at the beginning&#;the foundation&#;and work ourselves all the way&#; read more>>
(link to Options page)
Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be?
Yes, of course! And with no obligation. There are two ways to do this:
Quick estimate; get professional price quotes read more>> (link to Costs page)
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(At the bottom of each page for easy navigation)
<<Previous Next>>
Introduction (The page you are currently on)
Why Buy a Steel Building?
What Does the Project Look Like?
What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done?
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be?
Why Buy a Steel Building?
Short answer? Because there is virtually no downside to them&#;plain and simple. Consider some of the facts about steel buildings, and then look at a few of the advantages.
What you need to know
The long name for these structures is &#;Pre-Engineered Steel Buildings&#; or &#;PEB Steel.&#; They can alternatively be called &#;Pre-Fabricated Steel Buildings&#; and &#;Steel Building Kits.&#;
They are pre-engineered in that they have been designed to fit together in a vast array of combinations and already meet engineering requirements for specific uses. So there are no additional costs for engineering like there are for stick-built structures and custom-designed buildings.
The fact that they are pre-fabricated means that most of the construction work is done at the factory, leaving only assembly work and finish details to be done once they are delivered to your pre-developed site. That is also why some of these buildings are marketed as &#;Do-It-Yourself&#; steel building kits.
Rapid advances in state-of-the-art engineering software in recent years have made it possible to moderate building costs and expand both the usability and the potential capabilities of steel buildings in both private and commercial sectors.
Whereas steel buildings were used primarily for garages, hangars, barns, and warehouses for most of the latter half of the 20th century, modern engineering techniques now make it possible to erect such large facilities as retail stores, churches, manufacturing plants, sports arenas, office buildings, and even homes using the same basic design methods.
What you want to know
The advantages of steel buildings over traditionally constructed buildings are overwhelming. Consider just a few.
Construction
The length of the construction project is typically much shorter than with other building types. This is because the building system components are designed, engineered, and pre-built to make them easy to assemble on site. Much of the component construction is done in the factory while your site is being developed and prepared for the building. So, a small building can be completed by an experienced contractor in days instead of weeks; and a large building which would normally take months to construct can be done in just a few weeks. A 10,000 square foot commercial structure, for example, can be completed in just under three months. And because assembly drawings and step-by-step erection guides are provided, even an owner/builder can understand and complete the construction easily. <<back to top
Durability
Steel is one of the strongest building materials available today. It can withstand extreme weather conditions including high winds, severe snow storms, and even hurricanes and earthquakes. Unlike wood, steel is not susceptible to termites, rot, or fire. It does not creak, crack, warp, or split. And an added advantage is that steel weighs considerably less than wood. Most reputable building manufacturers offer at least a 25-year warranty, providing you with immediate peace-of-mind. In addition, metal building systems are treated with special coatings such as galvalume which protects paint and surfaces from rust. These paints and coatings are typically warranteed as well. <<back to top
Versatility
Steel buildings have a dynamic design, meaning that they can be changed or modified easily and economically. They can be built with few or no interior columns, making the interior very flexible for setting up lifts, storing large pieces of equipment or vehicles, and rearranging work spaces. Easy placement of larger doors such as overhead, roll-up, and sliding doors make space arrangement highly efficient. And unlike time-consuming modification change-orders common with regular construction, changes can take place on steel buildings before, during, or after the structure is completed so as to accommodate your changing needs. End and side walls can be removed, new framework added, and roof and wall panels replaced with ease, growing at the same rate as your building requirements. <<back to top
Flexibility
Unlike pre-drawn architectural drawings and even modular buildings that are limited to the original function for which they were designed (a house or an office, for example), steel buildings can be easily adapted to a vast array of uses with very little design modification. But even dramatic changes can be accomplished with little structural damage due to demolition and rebuilding because of their inherent versatility, as noted above. Here are just a few of the types of structures that can be constructed and modified to fill changing needs.
Agricultural: Supply and equipment storage; barns; dairy farms.
Equestrian: Riding arenas; barns; exhibition grounds.
Commercial: Offices; flea markets; retail and service shops; supermarkets.
Institutional: Exhibition halls; auditoriums; lecture halls; classrooms.
Recreational: Swimming pools; sports arenas; theaters.
Industrial: Inventory warehouses; manufacturing facilities; equipment and supply storage.
Aviation: Aircraft hangars; plane rental and sales offices; equipment storage.
Military: Temporary operations posts; barracks. <<back to top
Ease of assembly
Whereas construction is quick and efficient for an experienced erector, steel building are nonetheless designed, built, and packaged so that even an owner/builder can do it himself. All major connections are of a bolt-together design and have pre-punched holes. In addition, anchor bolt patterns, detailed assembly drawings, and a step-by-step erection guide are all included with each building. Most components are precut and numbered to correspond with the supplied drawings for quick assembly. <<back to top
Energy efficiency
Rigid frame steel buildings can be insulated far better than wood-frame buildings. Heating and cooling loss statistics (especially around doors, windows, foundation, and roofing) are significantly lower than other types of construction. This boosts energy efficiency which in turn leads to vast savings on heating and air-conditioning costs. <<back to top
Cost efficiency
State-of-the-art computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) processes are used to fabricate structural members with high a strength-to-weight ratio, minimizing raw material costs and virtually eliminating waste. The construction process with pre-engineered steel buildings is usually not affected by delays as with traditional construction. Since the building just needs to be assembled, there are rarely any surprise cost increases or unforeseen structural issues. In addition, construction requires fewer workers, thus reducing labor costs. <<back to top
Insurance
Because of its superior strength and fire retardant nature as compared with wood or brick, steel has been proven to withstand extremely harsh conditions, leading insurance companies in most areas to offer rebates of up to 40% to insure metal building systems structures. <<back to top
Safety
With the strength of the steel components coupled with modern engineering principles, these buildings can be designed to withstand hurricane-force wind speeds of up to 180 mph. Metal buildings won&#;t expand or contract with moisture levels and structural members are all secured with rust-resistant bolts. All-steel construction & components makes the chance of indoor or outdoor fires extremely low. And steel enjoys the added benefit of having improved grounding in electrical storms. <<back to top
Sustainability
Steel is the most recycled material on earth. In today&#;s political and social climate, the &#;Green&#; factor is becoming increasingly important to builders and buyers alike as they consider how their building will impact the environment. Today&#;s business market is turning to steel as the choice of construction material because steel buildings are environmentally friendly. Although steel does use a lot of energy to manufacture, waste emissions from steel construction have been reduced 90% during the past decade. A G90 galvanized steel sheet is 25% to 30% post-consumer recycled content and all steel material is 100% recyclable. Trends in increasing sustainability include the use of solar roof panels, double-layer insulation systems, insulated wall panels, and painted cool roofs, creating a greener environment while also saving trees. <<back to top
Resale value
All of the factors mentioned above create high resale value in a pre-engineered steel structure. But the most compelling of them may be its versatility and flexibility. Where a steel building may perfectly service the original owner for years, even decades, a new owner will find it extremely simple and cost-effective to have that building repurposed for his own unique needs. And because of the durability of steel, these changes can be made through several ownerships over extended periods of time. Buying and erecting a pre-engineered steel building is one of the wisest long-term investments one can make. <<back to top
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Introduction
Why Buy a Steel Building?
What Does the Project Look Like?
What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done?
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be?
WHAT DOES A PROJECT LOOK LIKE?
As with any building project, purchasing and erecting a steel building takes planning. As a rule, the better planned a project is, the more successful it will be. Let&#;s take an overall look at the process of installing a PEB on your property. Here we will highlight the various steps involved&#;from conception to completion. This &#;bird&#;s-eye-view&#; of the project will enable you to plan confidently, carry out efficiently, and enjoy immensely your wise investment.
Enjoy the journey
It is understandable that you would just like to see the new building on to your property and start using it. But remember, it&#;s not just about being there; getting there can also be a very rewarding experience. Here is an example of what your &#;itinerary&#; might look like.
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PlanningNew buildings always begin with an idea. If you are reading this, you undoubtedly have a need or a desire that a steel building may be able to fill. Put your thoughts&#; read more>>
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EngineeringAfter the location and design decisions have been made, it&#;s time to have your dream put into a graphic design format. Now you will need to choose a steel building&#; read more>>
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OrderingOnce you feel that you have found the manufacturer you want to work with and the design has been approved by the local code authority, but before any work begins&#; read more>>
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ManufacturingWhile you are preparing the site for installation, the manufacturer will be busy filling your order, fabricating the components as needed or pulling them from their in&#; read more>>
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Site PreparationThe purchase of a steel building typically does not include site preparation unless you are buying from a merchant who also provides that service. So, while your buil&#; read more>>
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DeliveryIt is important to coordinate delivery with your erection contractor. You are responsible for receipt of your order, but the contractor will need to be present to verify t&#; read more>>
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ErectionIf you have hired an erection contractor, you may sit back and watch your building take shape. You will, however, need to be available for consultation should any&#; read more>>
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ConstructionWhen the erection is complete, you will have a hollow metal shell&#;a skeleton, if you will. Now it&#;s time to put some meat on the bones&#;&#;building out,&#; as it is called&#; read more>>
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FinishingPutting on the exterior and interior finishing touches rivals ground-breaking in sheer excitement! Inside you will see flooring being laid, walls and ceilings getting&#; read more>>
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WalkthroughDepending on your local municipality, your project may have had to pass inspections of various phases, such as plumbing and electrical, for construction to continu&#; read more>>
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PlanningNew buildings always begin with an idea. If you are reading this, you undoubtedly have a need or a desire that a steel building may be able to fill. Put your thoughts down on paper. For many, this will be the first &#;sketch on a napkin.&#; Consider such things as: What will the building be used for? How big will it need to be? Where should the doors and windows be placed? It might be good to sketch out your ideas on a piece of paper that can be used initially when consulting with the engineer who will eventually produce architectural drawings. You will also need to establish a budget.
Once the basic concept has been created, a number of choices and decisions need to be made. What style of building do I want? Where on my property should the building be erected? What kinds of accessories and finishes would I like to have? This part can be very enjoyable, so don&#;t rush through it. Changes and adjustments can always be made at a later time when you consult with the engineer and as you work through the project. You will also need to decide if you are going to have all the work done by and erector and a construction contractor or if you should plan on doing some of it yourself, such as the erection.
For a more in-depth look at your options, see the topics What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done? and
What Kind of Building Options Are Available? further on in this guide. (Hard links) <<back to top
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EngineeringAfter the location and design decisions have been made, it&#;s time to have your dream put into a graphic design format. Now you will need to choose a steel building manufacturer with whom you will work to flesh out the project. This Buyers Guide can be used to locate a number of specialists in your area that you can consult with. For a quick quote, click here (Link to &#;Get Quotes&#;). To get into contact with the available manufacturers in your area who can give you a more customized estimate for your project, click here (Link to &#;Price Estimates&#;). From your consultations, you may choose one to purchase your PEB from. He may also offer installation services.
All of the manufacturers with whom you talk have engineers on staff. They will take your ideas and sketches and design your building. Because they will be using pre-engineered components, your overall costs will be reduced, but you will nonetheless have a building that has been customized for your specific needs. The design that is produced will be in compliance with your local building code as well as load requirements for your region. <<back to top
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OrderingOnce you feel that you have found the manufacturer you want to work with and the design has been approved by the local code authority, but before any work begins (including the engineering), it will be time to place an order and put down a deposit. After drawings have been made, they may send you plans and erection diagrams. These will allow you to prepare the construction site ahead of time. The manufacturer may also offer to send you the appropriate anchor bolts which will secure the building to its foundation. You will use these in laying and preparing the foundation while your building is being manufactured. <<back to top
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ManufacturingWhile you are preparing the site for installation, the manufacturer will be busy filling your order, fabricating the components as needed or pulling them from their inventory. If you have not done so already, you will need to hire an erector and a general contractor during this process unless you are going to be doing that work yourself. When the building components are delivered, the site should already be prepared for erection. <<back to top
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Site preparationThe purchase of a steel building typically does not include site preparation unless you are buying from a merchant who also provides that service. So, while your building is being manufactured, you will be busy getting the site ready for erection. This could include surveying, excavation, tree removal, and grading. The manufacturer will provide details on type and size of the foundation on which the building will sit. Foundations are typically poured concrete, but other types may also be used depending on the location, climate, and intended use. Please see the page What Kind of Building Options Are Available? for details on foundation types and other options. You will also be able to get help from the erector to determine what needs to be done to get the site prepared. <<back to top
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DeliveryIt is important to coordinate delivery with your erection contractor. You are responsible for receipt of your order, but the contractor will need to be present to verify that everything has arrived that you are getting billed for. Shortages or damaged materials must be noted by the carrier; otherwise the supplier will not be held responsible. If construction is not taking place immediately, building materials must be adequately covered and protected. Please see the page Delivery Day (Link to separate page) for more detailed information on what to expect. <<back to top
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ErectionIf you have hired an erection contractor, you may sit back and watch your building take shape. You will, however, need to be available for consultation should any questions arise. General erection consists of the setting of columns, the installation of purlins and girts (ribs), and the attachment of the roof and wall sheeting. Be sure to have everything that the erector has agreed to do in writing in the contract documents so that there is no confusion as to the erector&#;s responsibilities. <<back to top
If you are going to be assembling the building yourself, it is imperative that you follow the highly-detailed assembly instructions to the letter. That includes all safety instructions. As with any construction project, improper handling or unapproved building techniques can lead to serious injury or even death. Doing it right, on the other hand, will result in lower overall costs and the long-term enjoyment of your new steel building. We recommend that you visit our Assembly Tips (Use page currently on website until a new page is written) page which provides some helpful hints for a safe and cost-efficient construction project.
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ConstructionWhen the erection is complete, you will have a hollow metal shell&#;a skeleton, if you will. Now it&#;s time to put some meat on the bones&#;&#;building out,&#; as it is called. Either you or your contractor will add insulation; rough in plumbing, electrical and HVAC; install doors, windows, and possibly skylights; and construct interior walls and ceilings. <<back to top
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FinishingPutting on the interior and exterior finishing touches rivals ground-breaking in sheer excitement! Inside you will see flooring being laid, walls and ceilings getting painted, and plumbing and lighting fixtures being installed. The exterior will get gutters and downspouts, window and door trim, steps or decking, and whatever kind of wall finish you&#;ve decided on&#;from paint to masonry. Your building is almost done!
For a list of many of the finishing possibilities, please see the page, What Kind of Building Options Are Available? further on in this guide. <<back to top
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WalkthroughDepending on your local municipality, your project may have had to pass inspections of various phases, such as plumbing and electrical, for construction to continue to progress. Upon completion, you must schedule a final inspection of the entire project with a local building inspector. He will typically then issue a Certificate of Occupancy, allowing you to &#;move in&#; and put the building to use. You will likely also do a walkthrough with your contractor to ensure the structure and finish is to your satisfaction. A &#;punch list&#; of minor corrections may be generated which the contractor will complete in a timely manner. <<back to top
We hope this overview has given you a good idea of what you have to look forward to on your journey. Building , owning, and using a Pre-engineered Steel Building can be a very rewarding experience, not only in filling a possible need, but doing so in such a way as to bring you enjoyment and peace-of-mind for many years to come. <<back to top
<<Previous Next>>
Introduction
Why Buy a Steel Building?
What Does the Project Look Like?
What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done?
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be?
WHAT KIND OF PLANNING NEEDS TO BE DONE?
As with most projects, planning for a Pre-engineered Steel Building involves both broad strokes and details. Much of it comes under the &#;pre-thinking&#; category. These are the things you will face just shortly after you make your first &#;sketch on a napkin.&#; First, let&#;s talk about the two major factors to consider: practical and legal.
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Practical ConsiderationsYou will need to think through exactly how you'll use the building. For example, if you're building a warehouse, you may need roll-up doors high enough for your forklifts to drive through. Steel buildings always require foundations. In many cases these are flat concrete slabs. However, another type may be more practical for your use.
In addition, it will be necessary to provide for all of the following with these types of buildings:
· Natural drainage
· Firm and level ground
· Ease of access
· Access to utilities
· Room for possible future expansion
If these are not readily available at the site you have chosen, you may have to pay extra to create them or bring them to your site.
More of the details on the practical aspect are considered below under &#;The Small Stuff.&#; (Link to below)
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Legal ConsiderationsEvery state has different building codes that will apply to your project. These will include things like snow and wind load and how much your building can withstand each. Building codes are continually changing, so be sure to check with your city or county planning department. For example, if you&#;re building a church or emergency vehicle garage, what are called &#;importance factors&#; may apply and raise the bar even higher on code requirements.
Other legal requirements include local zoning laws, drainage requirements, and energy codes. Stricter energy codes require the use of more insulation to save energy and reduce your building&#;s carbon footprint through the application of Green building standards. While perhaps more costly at first, following the newer insulation guidelines will make your building energy-efficient and could very well pay for itself in the first year because of reduced heating and cooling costs.
Some aspects of your design involve both practical and legal considerations. For example, a retail facility will need, and legally require, appropriate parking and handicapped access.
One of the changes that lawmakers are discussing is whether to base the codes on a 10-year weather cycle rather than the current 100-year period. This is in reaction to the ever-changing weather patterns over recent years. Building codes are intended to provide for the safe use of buildings and structures under "normal" conditions when it comes to snow load, wind speed, earthquake, collateral load, and exposure; but the definition of &#;normal&#; seems to be changing more rapidly nowadays than codes allow for.
While steel building suppliers can often help you research these codes, most will not engineer, fabricate, or ship you a building that does not meet the codes in your area. So ultimately the responsibility for meeting them is yours. If you're not familiar with major construction projects&#;and especially steel building installations&#;it is advisable to consult with a local contractor. You will likely be using one for your site prep and construction anyway. Perhaps it would be a good idea to start a dialog with one in your area. <<back to top
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The Small StuffThese are the minutiae that apply specifically to your building, but this is also what makes the project fun! These are initial decisions that you will need to make in the planning stage that will customize the steel building for your unique needs.
Building orientation:
Prevailing wind directions and sun exposure may be important to you, depending on the intended use. For example, do you want to have the sun shining in the windows in the morning, early afternoon, or early evening? Might you want to eliminate windows and doors from one side altogether that may get regularly buffeted by the wind? Is there a view that should be considered?
Building size:
The size will depend on the intended purpose of the building and the number of people using it. For example, if it is a business office you are installing, you will need to consider the number of employees and processes that will be involved in order to assess the size requirements.
It is usually wise to plan on making it a little bit bigger than you initially think you might need. A good rule of thumb is to go one size larger so that future requirements can be accommodated without having to do an extensive remodel. Standard dimensions are calculated in increments of 10 feet, e.g., 20&#; x 30&#; or 60 feet by 100 feet. Custom sizes can be created, but that would significantly increase the cost.
Building height:
Community building height varies. Standard heights of single- and multi-story buildings are usually governed by local code. As a rule, building eave height must be at least two feet taller than the highest framed opening (see &#;Framed Openings&#; below). So, for example, fire stations must take into account the size of trucks and equipment that will be moving in and out of the building.
Based on the type and style of the building along with its proposed use, you can calculate the roof height. For example, aircraft hangars need to use the clear span style with high roof structures. Churches may need high vaulted ceilings to give a feeling of loftiness. With business offices, standard roof height is usually sufficient. <<back to top
Roof pitch:
The shape of the roof can be designed based on the amount of clear space required in the middle of the room. Roof slope is expressed by the &#;roof pitch ratio&#; which is the number of inches of rise in 12 inches of horizontal length&#;with a colon between the two numbers. For example, a roof with a pitch of 2:12 (spoken &#;two in twelve&#;) means that it slopes up two inches for every 12 inches of length (or two feet for every 12 feet of length).
A basic metal building has a roof pitch of 1:12, a nearly flat roof. Gabled buildings typically have a roof pitch ratio of 4:12. Higher-pitched roofs provide more cubic footage of space with little additional money. They are beneficial if you can utilize the space above the eaves. On the other hand, low-pitched roofs allow you to heat and cool the space more efficiently. Snow load is another consideration if your building will be in an area with significant snowfall. A steeper roof pitch will shed snow better.
Framed openings:
A &#;framed opening&#; is term used to describe any opening in the building, covered by a door or not, which is larger than a &#;walk-door&#; (a door which people go through). They are generally large openings through which vehicles, large equipment, and loading items pass through. A garage doorway would be considered a framed opening, for example. Schools, retail stores, and manufacturing facilities often have a loading bay area, closed off by a massive door, which trucks can back up to in order to deliver or pick up large or a great number of items.
Accessories and finishes:
Here we get into even more detailed options, covering all number of things from doors, windows, and venting to paint and other finishes. Please go forward to the What Kind of Building Options Are Available? page for a further discussion of these items. (Link to Options page) <<back to top
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TIANYING are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.
Introduction
Why Buy a Steel Building?
What Does the Project Look Like?
What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done?
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be?
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
We&#;ve finally come to the part where you make your building your building. The options are so many and varied that you could safely say that no two buildings are alike. Let&#;s start at the beginning&#;the foundation&#;and work ourselves up and all the way through to the finish trim.
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FoundationsAs with anything else, the foundation is the most important element of your steel building project. A good foundation will make the building stable and protect it ag&#; read more>>
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Building designsThere are three basic types of pre-engineered steel buildings available. The type you choose will depend on your needs, aesthetics, practicality for your area, and your&#; read more>>
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Building accessoriesBasically, accessories include everything that is not the foundation, structure, or roof. You can think of them as &#;customizing options.&#; We will consider some of them&#; read more>>
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Other optionsInsulation, trim, finish, gutters and downspouts read more>>
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FoundationsAs with anything else, the foundation is the most important element of your steel building project. A good foundation will make the building stable and protect it against the forces of nature and other unplanned events. The foundation should be in place and signed off by the building inspector before your kit is delivered. Creating a good foundation takes a fair amount of planning and execution, but it will pay dividends in the future.
Before the foundation is poured, the land must be professionally surveyed to ensure the building site is level and that the builders know the exact boundaries of the plot. Once that is completed, the grading and leveling of the building site is done. This is the process that makes the height and shape of the land conform to the surveyor&#;s stakes.
When the building site has been made level, excavation for the foundation can begin. You will need to consult with your steel buildings manufacturer or salesperson regarding the type of excavation your foundation will require. Most simple steel buildings only require minor excavation while more complex metal buildings will require deeper general excavation.
Minor excavation can be done with hand tools such as a pickaxe, shovel, and steel rake. For a simple slab foundation, a 2&#; to 3&#; deep base should suffice. Major excavation is likely to involve the use of heavy construction equipment such as a backhoe or skiploader.
Remember to retain some of the removed earth for final grading and leveling after the steel building is completed. You will also likely need some earth for backfilling and the in-filling of small holes or voids left after construction.
Now let&#;s look at the four most common types of foundations.
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SlabAs its name implies, a slab foundation consists of a reinforced and poured concrete &#;slab&#; which serves both as the base for erection of the building and as the floor of the building itself. The perimeter of the slab, as well as any areas that may require the use of heavy bearing walls, will be more deeply excavated to accommodate the footings that provide the building with stability. A slab is generally between 3-1/2&#; and 5-1/2&#; thick.
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CurbWith a curb foundation, only the perimeter is poured with reinforced concrete. The curb includes the weight-bearing footings and, as with a street curb, it stands several inches above grade and provides a base for the outside walls of the steel building to be erected upon. Depending on the lay of the land as well as the owner&#;s preferences, an area inside of the curb can also be excavated out to provide a crawlspace underneath. In this case, the floor of the finished building is framed with wood joists. When additional curbs are poured inside of the perimeter curb to accommodate weight-bearing walls, this is also known as a &#;ribbon&#; foundation.
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Floating slabReally just a combination of the two previously mentioned types of foundations, the floating slab is one of the most common used today in all kinds of construction. If the building is being constructed on a flat surface, a curb with footings is poured first, and while that is setting and curing, a slab is poured inside of the curb which will serve as the floor for the completed building. When installed properly, the floating slab will reduce the amount of cracking caused by settling over time.
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PierWith a pier foundation, the building rests on individual footings (piers) distributed evenly around the perimeter. These piers are usually formed from reinforced concrete set deep enough below grade to hit &#;hardpan,&#; or undisturbed earth. While not recommended for use with large buildings, they are at times sufficient for smaller structures such as storage units and small shops. Your engineer will explain the pros and cons, as well as the advisability, of using this type of foundation for your particular need.
If you intend to install the foundation yourself, please see Pouring Concrete Foundations in this guide. (Link to sub-page which can be added later) <<back to top
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Building DesignsThere are three basic types of pre-engineered steel buildings available. The type you choose will depend on your needs, aesthetics, practicality for your area, and your budget.
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ArchCommonly known as the &#;Quonset Hut&#; style of building, the Arch boasts advantages of being both the most economical and the strongest of the various types of steel buildings. Because of its dome shape, no interior supports such as columns are necessary, allowing for open accessibility. This shape also is extremely durable, able to withstand high winds, hurricanes, and even earthquakes. Installation, assembly, erection, and disassembly tasks are quite easy, making them quite inexpensive and cost-effective. And because there are shipped as nested &#;spoons,&#; containerization is simple, eliminating the need to use cranes or large equipment. Hence the Quonset Hut is considered to be the best choice for remote locations.
Because of their shape, however, Arches are the least customizable. Installation of doors and windows is practical only on the building ends. And with the &#;Q&#; model, overhead clearance drops considerably as you get further away from the center of the building. This problem is mitigated somewhat with the &#;S&#; model which uses straight side walls up to a point before the arch begins, and with the &#;P&#; model which is similar to the &#;S&#; model except that the &#;dome&#; is pointed instead of completely round.
Given all attributes and characteristics of the Arch-style building, it is best used for warehousing and equipment storage, garages and workshops, grain storage, and open-end structures. Larger, lower versions of the Quonset Hut have even been used as airplane hangars. This style is also a favorite of do-it-yourselfers because of the simplicity of construction.
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Pole BarnThe Pole Barn-style of building is a take on the generations-old wooden pole barn, using steel framing instead of wooden poles. While more expensive than the Arch style, it is still quite economical, making it a good choice for agriculture and livestock applications. Steel poles are either set in concrete or anchored to a concrete slab, and the rest of the building can be constructed of steel or wood. Whereas they are less expensive than rigid-frame buildings and can be quickly built, Pole Barn types of structures are more susceptible to strong winds when compared with other types of steel buildings.
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Rigid FramePerhaps the most common, popular, and best overall choice for a steel structure is the Rigid Frame-style. While they are about 30% more expensive than Arch-style buildings, they offer the highest flexibility in the sheer number of options available for just about every kind of application imaginable. And their straight-wall design makes them easier to build and offer more protection.
Among those available Rigid Frame options are:
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Open-web truss systems These offer exceptional design flexibility, particularly where longer spans are required. These light-weight, incredibly strong framing systems are ideally suited for situations requiring clear unobstructed floor space such as aircraft hangars and indoor stadiums. With large clear spans, open-web truss systems offer design versatility that is rare in the industry.
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Clear-span systems These use tapered columns and rafters combined with bypass girts to give optimum unobstructed span capabilities. The column-free interior space is ideal for buildings such as auditoriums, gymnasiums, and aircraft hangars.
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Modular-span systems These have many of the same features of clear-span frames, but by adding interior columns, the frame will span even greater widths. This economical design is particularly practical for office, warehouse, industrial, and commercial uses where rows of interior columns would not pose a hindrance.
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Lean-to systems This is an economical way to increase the width of new or existing buildings without the need of a valley gutter. Lean-tos can be integrated with virtually any other type of framing system.
Among the seemingly unlimited variations available with the Rigid Frame systems are options to have second stories and mezzanines, crane systems, low-profile modular structures, single-slope buildings, and frame extensions. You are limited, literally, only by your imagination. <<back to top
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Building AccessoriesAccessories include everything that is not the foundation, structure, or roof. You can think of them as &#;customizing options.&#; We will consider some of them here, but this is by no means an exhaustive list. Once you get to work designing your own steel building, you will no doubt find other available options that will help you personalize your gleaming new structure.
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WindowsWindows provide light and ventilation to a building. They can also contribute to atmosphere and ambiance. Metal building system windows are self-framing and field-located, so they can be placed anywhere that is not blocked by column placement or cable bracing. Manufacturers typically offer both insulated (thermal) and non-insulated models, and they are available in a wide range of standard sizes. Thermal windows will pay dividends in the long run if you plan on heating and cooling your building.
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DoorsUnless your building will be open-ended, it will need at least one &#;walk-door,&#; or the door that people go through as compared with doors that are designed for moving machinery and equipment through. Because they are necessary, you do not need to account for walk-doors when you are specifying the number of framed openings you want in your building; they will be automatically included in your estimate. Like windows, doors are self-framing, meaning that they can be installed anywhere that they will not be blocked by bracing or columns. Many varieties are available. A popular option is the half-glass door which lets in more light.
There is a wide variety of door types and mechanisms available for use in framed openings. Sliding doors are one such economical large-door solution. For certain applications, mechanized overhead doors are called for, and are often used with a remote control system.
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SkylightsSkylights are an excellent way to add natural light to a building, while also boosting its energy efficiency. In metal building systems, skylights are typically produced by substituting translucent fiberglass or polycarbonate panels for the steel roofing panels. Fiberglass panels are the most cost-effective; but polycarbonate panels are often used when something stronger than fiberglass is required. Some manufacturers call these &#;roof-lights.&#; Translucent panels can also replace some wall panels to produce &#;wall-lights.&#; Skylights are typically positioned on either side of the peak of the roof, which is why they are often sold in pairs. To get a sense of how many skylights to put in a steel building, manufacturers will look at the number of bays (spaces between frame columns) a building has and judge the optimal exposure from that.
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VentsVentilation minimizes condensation (very important in steel buildings), helps to keep the air in a building fresh, and plays a significant role in the regulation of temperature, keeping a building cool during the warmer seasons. To ensure sufficient ventilation throughout the entire structure, it is best to combine more than one type of ventilation device and move air between them, achieving what is known as cross-ventilation. Some typical examples of ventilation systems components are wall, ridge, gravity, and turbine vents. Building manufacturers use formulas to calculate the amount of ventilation required given the size, structure, and function of a building, and they are happy to assist you in selecting the best device or combination of devices for your particular structure. <<back to top
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Other OptionsNot to be forgotten are the things that make the building both beautiful and comfortable.
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InsulationWhile steel buildings are very durable, they need to be augmented with proper insulation. Not only does this reduce energy consumption, it also enables you to control outside conduction of temperature. You can even get tax benefits for adding insulation in some areas. Generally speaking, the more insulation, the higher the R-value or resistance to heat loss. But the insulation must properly fit in the space for which it is designed in order to provide the stated insulating value. The various types of insulation methods include:
Loose-fill (also known as &#;blown-in&#;) With this method, special equipment is used to blow loose fiber or fiber pellets into the building cavities. While this is somewhat expensive, it reduces air leakage very effectively and it can also act as a sound barrier.
Batt and blanket This is the most common and inexpensive method of insulation. It is used for walls, ceilings, and floors. Batts are precut panels of fiberglass or mineral fiber insulation, four or eight feet in length, designed to fit in standard-height walls. Blanket insulation uses the same material but comes in rolls which are field-cut to needed lengths.
Spray foam While this method is more expensive than batt and blanket insulation, spray foam provides airtight insulation and is best suited for filling gaps of shaped structures. With this method, a liquid polymer mixture is sprayed in the walls, ceilings, and floors. It expands and turns into solid cellular plastic.
Rigid board Rigid board insulation uses panels of stiff fiberglass, polyurethane, or polystyrene precut to various thicknesses. This method is especially well-suited for flat roofs and vaulted ceilings.
With all types of insulation, ensure that a proper vapor barrier is installed adjacent to heated space, including walls, ceilings, and floors. This will prevent condensation. Some types of insulation come with their own vapor barrier. Most batt insulation, for instance, has a Kraft paper vapor barrier attached to the batts.
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TrimThough not structural in nature, trim nevertheless adds fit and finish to a building, lining the edges of the roof, walls, and framed openings. Trim can include window and door molding, corner trim, and rafter fascia, as well as a wide variety of other finish pieces that may be unique to your structure. In addition to contributing to the overall aesthetics of the building, trim also serves the practical purpose of sealing it off from wind and rain.
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FinishSteel building manufacturers offer a variety of colors to choose from for their wall panels, roof panels, and the trim that lines the edges of their buildings. Some also produce panels with acrylic stucco or simulated concrete finishes. These not only look fantastic; they can also save you a significant amount of money and application time. You can, of course, paint and finish your steel building yourself, although manufacturers do warrantee their coatings, surfaces, and paint finishes as an added incentive for you to purchase components that have been pre-finished. Paint and finish warranties can range from years to decades to as much as a half-century, depending on the finish grade. Unpainted panels coated with Galvalume (a zinc-aluminum coating), are typically warranteed for 20 years.
Professional finishes like wood paneling, stucco, brickwork, wainscoting, or masonry can be applied to make your steel building look like a regular wood-framed structure, if that is your desire. With a professionally- applied high-quality finish, the average person will be unable to tell that the building is pre-engineered steel; they may only notice that it will feels particularly sturdy and sound. If you do decide to add your own after-market finish, general contractors can be hired to do this for you as well.
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Gutters and downspoutsGutters keep the sides of a building clean and allow you control over the path of roof runoff so as to prevent the pooling of water around doors, parking areas, etc. Like trim, gutters and downspouts contribute to the overall aesthetics of a building. They are often used as the sole source of ventilation in very small steel buildings. Gutters and downspouts cannot be used with the Arch style of building. <<back to top
This brings us to the end of our discussion of the various aspects of planning, purchasing, and owning a Pre-engineered Steel Building. We hope we have given you a fair estimation of the benefits of choosing a PEB over other standard forms of construction. We further hope that we have educated you to a sufficient degree to be able to make an informed decision regarding this type of product.
If you&#;ve read this far, you are seriously now considering purchasing and erecting a steel building of your own. If you are ready to take the next step, please proceed on to Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be? (Link) so that we can help you establish a budget and get you well on your way to making one of the best investments of time and money you will ever make. Happy building!
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Introduction
Why Buy a Steel Building?
What Does the Project Look Like?
What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done?
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be?
CAN I GET AN ESTIMATE OF WHAT MY COSTS WILL BE?
Yes, of course! And with no obligation. There are two ways to do this:
Quick estimate (Link to &#;Price Estimates&#;)
If you are not ready to talk to a salesman or builder yet, just click here (Link to &#;Price Estimates&#;) to get a quick preliminary estimate. You will be asked what your building will be used for, the style, the approximate size, and your location. Click &#;Calculate Estimate&#; and you will instantly be given a ball park figure of the cost of constructing your building. Get a quick estimate (Link to &#;Price Estimates&#;)
Get professional quotes (Link to &#;Get Quotes&#;)
If you are serious about moving forward with this adventure, click here (Link to &#;Get Quotes&#;) to have a builder contact you. First you will answer questions in a somewhat more detailed survey so as to accurately estimate your costs. When you click the final &#;Continue&#; button, your information will be sent to up to four of our accredited builders within the area in which you will be constructing your building. Each of these builders has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau so you can be assured of an accurate estimate of their professional services at a competitive price.
You will be emailed a copy of your quotation request and be issued a BuildingsGuide.com reference number. The builders will contact you within 24 hours and you will include this number in any correspondence you have with them. You will be able to interview each of them to your satisfaction and go with the one of your choice when you are ready. Get professional quotes (Link to &#;Get Quotes&#;)
With either resourse, a number to BuildingsGuide.com is provided if you would like to have any questions answered before you proceed.
Thank you for using this building guide and we wish you success in this exciting endeavor!
<<Previous Next>>
Introduction
Why Buy a Steel Building?
What Does the Project Look Like?
What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done?
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be?
DELIVERY DAY
It&#;s hard to not get excited when this big day finally arrives. You have likely been working for several weeks on getting your property prepared for your new steel building, and now it&#;s time for you to receive the building components that you&#;ve thus far only seen on paper. There are several steps in the delivery process, including some pre-planning that must take place. Let&#;s consider these steps one by one.
Pre-plan the day
As mentioned on the Project page, you should have made arrangements for your erection contractor to be present on delivery day to verify that all the parts and pieces are present and accounted for. If you are going to be doing your own erection, it is especially important for you to be careful and thorough in this step to ensure that there are no missing or damage components.
If you are using a contractor, make sure that you have clarified in your contract who will be doing the off-loading and staging of the materials. The manufacturer does not supply labor or lift equipment to help you unload the truck once it arrives; that is your responsibility. So, your agreement with the contractor should state that either he will supply those things or you will be doing it yourself. If you will be handling that function, or if you are acting as your own contractor, make sure that your help and any necessary equipment is onsite before the truck arrives. Necessary equipment could include a crane, forklift, pallet jacks, and so forth, depending on the size of your building and the layout of your building site.
On the subject of site layout, careful thought should have been given to access and staging. If your property is large and flat, this should be relatively simple. But if the site is small, odd-shaped, sloped, or covered with rocks or trees, all of these factors must have been taken into consideration when planning the truck&#;s ingress and egress as well as the locations where the delivered materials will be staged (placed temporarily).
Here are some practical suggestions on how to make Delivery Day easier and safer:
Usage point Try to have the components unloaded as close to the point that there are going to be used as possible. Keep this in mind when planning where the delivery truck is going to park.
Moving equipment If a vehicle such as the delivery truck or a forklift is going to need to roll over the edge of your foundation or poured floor, plan on building a ramp for it to roll on in order to avoid cracking or chipping the concrete before anything is even built.
Slab protection Another issue regarding concrete protection involves the storage of materials. If your plan requires that some or all of the materials be stored on the slab, have the concrete work done far enough in advance to ensure that the foundation is properly settled and that the floors have fully cured before putting any heavy weight on them. <<back to top
Two inspections
When the delivery truck arrives on the big day, there are two inspections that you and your contractor will perform: the unloading inspection and the unpacking inspection. The first one is done while the delivery vehicle is still there; the second one can be done later.
When your building arrives, it will obviously be in pieces&#;many, many pieces. These are all shrink-wrapped, bundled, bagged, and boxed in a way that is both efficient and environmentally responsible. When you were first given the design and construction plans some time prior to this, an inventory packing list was included in that package. If you haven&#;t done so already, find it and make a few copies before starting the inspections.
Unloading inspection
As items are taken off the truck, you will need to examine each of them and check them off a master copy of the inventory packing list. If any items are missing or damaged or if there are an insufficient amount of any pieces, you will need to file a report with the carrier immediately while he is still on site. If a package is damaged, open it and inspect the contents and report any damaged items. Until the unloading inspection is done and you have approved all the items and reported damaged and missing ones, you have not officially &#;received&#; the shipment. This step is important as it will expedite the replacement of any missing or damaged parts.
Unpacking inspection
Once you have officially received the shipment, you will need to unpack it. This is usually done after the carrier has left. Now is the time to perform an even more in-depth examination of all the delivered items. Use a second copy of the master inventory list and check off all of the items again, making sure that you not only received everything that was ordered, but that there is the correct quantity of each of the items&#;especially those of which there may be multiples. If you find that there are any damaged or missing components that were not reported to the carrier in the unloading inspection, you have 14 days from receipt to file a report to the manufacturer.
Although these inspections may be somewhat tedious and even seem redundant, they are both extremely important. Although the computer assisted modular design process has cut down on loss and defects in construction, mistakes can still happen. Reports and claims filed in a timely manner make the settlement process much simpler, allowing you to focus on the much more pleasant task at hand: getting your new steel building built!
Staging of materials
Components should be placed as near to the point that they will be used as practical. Very heavy or unwieldy items may require lift or moving equipment; smaller and lighter pieces can be moved by hand.
Columns should be unloaded near their respective positions by the anchor bolts that they correspond to. They may be placed on the foundation slab on top of even wood blockings. It is also a good idea to place slings (cables) under heavy columns and other framing members for easier lifting. End Walls are typically unloaded and laid at the ends of the slab where they will be erected.
It is generally best to put all hardware packages in once place so as to make it easier to keep stock of them. Placing them near the center of the building helps to cut down on travel time across the building site and makes for easier access.
Purlins and girts should be stored near sidewalls and kept clear of other materials or packages. Packages of sheet goods should be located out of the way as they are the next to the last items to be added to the building. Place them on blocks and provide a slight slope at one end for drainage in case of rain. Accessories should also be located out of the way; they are the last components that will be installed after the basic steel building is constructed.
Ensure that all components are staged in such a way as to prevent workers from accidentally stepping on them. Depending on climate and weather conditions, the materials may need to be covered or otherwise protected from the elements so that they will be clean and dry when construction begins. <<back to top
<<back to What Does a Project Look Like?
Introduction
Why Buy a Steel Building?
What Does the Project Look Like?
· Delivery Day
· Assembly Tips
What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done?
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be?
assembly tips
After all the materials are delivered, the most exciting part of the project begins: putting everything together. These buildings have been compared to giant Erector Sets, and understandably so. All of the pieces are prefabricated, the &#;set&#; comes with detailed instructions, and assembling everything can be just as much fun as that generations-old construction toy. Depending on your experience and mechanical aptitude, you may choose to hire a contractor to do the actual assembly of the building or act as your own contractor and take on the responsibility for the entire project. Both courses of action have their advantages, so you may want to consider these tips to help you in the decision-making process.
Hiring a contractor
Think it through If you have never constructed a steel building, you may want to consider hiring a professional erector. If you do not have any experience in the building trades or at least sharp organizational and mechanical skills, it is really the course of wisdom to do so. Whereas the sense of adventure, limited finances, and even pride can be powerful motivations for wanting to &#;do it yourself,&#; serious mistakes can be made the first time out which could negatively impact the outcome of the project. Give careful thought to this important decision.
See it done Even if you do decide to hire a contractor, understanding each step will help the entire process to run more smoothly. If possible, before you even place your order, visit another metal building project in your local area. Your building sales representative may be able to help you find one nearby. Plan on taking several days, or even weeks, to drop by and observe the progress of the project. Take note of the order in which things are done. Talk to the owner and the contractor. Ask questions regarding your own planned project and see if they have any tips they&#;d like to share with you. Seeing a project take shape and knowing the sequence of events is the next best thing to doing it yourself.
Limit the liability In addition to benefiting from the experience that a contractor brings with him, there is another distinct advantage to putting the project in his hands. When you sign the contract, you effectively transfer a good deal of the liability that is an inherent part of any construction project from your shoulders on to his. For many, the peace of mind that comes from such a decision is well worth the cost involved.
Even after considering all of these factors, you may still feel that you are qualified to complete this project as owner/builder. If so, you can still limit the liabilities and building costs by following a few simple tips. <<back to top
Being your own contractor
Work safe Develop a Work Safe Plan. Any reputable contractor will have one; you should too. Educate yourself on potential hazards in weather, terrain, and machinery. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment when necessary, and make sure your hired help does so too. Make sure you are physically and mentally in good shape for each day&#;s activities.
Divide and conquer Break down the big job into smaller manageable jobs. Try to complete each job as an individual project. Doing so will help you keep your focus and make the final assembly much easier. Depending on the size and scope of the entire project, these smaller jobs can be assigned to teams of three to five workers.
Use pros Using trained workers has several advantages. They work faster, take safety more seriously, and build better buildings. They also require less instruction, saving hours of time over the course of the entire project.
Tools at the ready Most professional workers will carry their own hand tools. But larger tools and equipment required by the job are the responsibility of the contractor. Make sure that all the proper tools are available for your workers.
Stick to the plan Time and money are saved when building components are laid out according to the plans. On larger projects, it is imperative that the inventory and job layout be mapped and that each worker have a copy of the map.
Bolt first Bolt as many components together as possible before raising a panel. Much time can be saved by attaching as many pieces together as can be safely lifted at one time.
Bay-by-bay Work progressively; build in sections. Assemble all the steel framework in each bay of the building before moving on to the next.
Don&#;t over-rent Most lift equipment will be rented. When the first bay is completed, the individual frames can be erected and tied together by lead purlins. Fill-in purlins can be installed after the expensive lifting equipment has been returned.
Sleep tight At the end of each work day, make sure that the job site is secure and safe. Remove all debris; put tools away; eliminate tripping and falling hazards; lock up any gates that are being used. Also, ensure there is proper drainage where necessary to prevent the collection of water during the night or after completion of your steel building.
Following each of these tips will make for a safe working environment, keep construction costs down, and lead to a successful completion of this exciting project! <<back to top
<<back to What Does a Project Look Like?
Introduction
Why Buy a Steel Building?
What Does the Project Look Like?
· Delivery Day
· Assembly Tips
What Kind of Planning Needs To Be Done?
What Kind of Building Options Are Available?
Can I Get An Estimate on What My Costs Will Be?
For more information, please visit Steel Structure Engineering Case.