Steel has fast become the preferred building material of choice because of its many advantages like cost-effectiveness and versatility. Because of that, many steel buildings are being fitted with all the finishes found in traditional structures.
One such essential is insulation.
If you’re wondering what the best insulation for steel buildings is, we’ve got you. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about insulation for steel buildings.
The Importance of Insulation for Steel Buildings
Many have debated the importance of insulating steel buildings. However, in most cases, insulating your steel building has several benefits you just can’t ignore. These are benefits like:
Reduces condensation
Reduces energy costs
Improves temperature regulation
Better acoustics
As you can see, insulation is no longer an option if you want to get the best out of your steel building. It’s a necessity.
Insulation Options for Steel Buildings
When it comes to insulating your steel building, you have a couple of options. These vary in the material used as well as the method used to insulate.
Blanket Insulation
Blanket insulation, also called batting or fiberglass sheets, is another steel building insulation option you should consider. The “blanket” consists of mineral fibers of rock wool or processed fiberglass. This is processed into a roll that is used to line the face of the building. However, make sure to install it carefully for full effectiveness and durability. To do this, you must use a strong adhesive to secure the sheets to your building.
One of the major advantages of this type of steel building insulation is that it’s inexpensive. It’s also widely available at virtually any big box store, making it popular for DIYers and a feature on most job sites.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation for steel buildings is the best option if your building has obstacles or has hard-to-reach gaps and holes. This is because you can easily spray it onto the surfaces you want to apply it on. The caveat is that it’s also one of the hardest types of insulation to remove. It’s also one of the most expensive.
Foam insulation is one of the best insulation for steel buildings in cold, dusty, or damp environments as it does an excellent job of protecting the inside of the building from external elements.
Loose Filling Insulation
Loose filling insulation is a great solution for odd spaces that are too tight to fill with regular rolls or panels. However, it will sag over time and can absorb moisture which may lead to mold growth. The trick is to know where the best place for this type of insulation is.
Rigid Board Insulation
Rigid board insulation is one of the more expensive but effective insulation options for steel buildings. It’s particularly suited for buildings with flat roofs. Panels are easy to erect and they are designed to block heat or cold effectively. The only caveat to rigid board insulation is that it requires professionals to install it.
Tips to Ensure a Successful DIY Insulation
If you’re planning on insulating your steel building on your own, there are a few things you must take note of.
Determine the R-value and Understand Insulation Ratings
All the insulation options for steel buildings mentioned above have different ratings that make them suitable for different climatic conditions. One of the most important is the R-value. The term “R-value” may sound intimidating, but it just describes thermal resistance. This is the ability of the insulation to maintain constant temperatures despite external climatic factors. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation material works.
Choose the Right Insulation and Follow Instructions Closely
The right insulation for your steel building is determined by the size and design of your building as well as the climatic conditions of your area. For example
If your building has hard-to-reach nooks and crannies, foam is the best option as you can effectively fill these without having to physically reach them.
If you’re in a place that’s humid or experiences a lot of moisture, fiberglass options like blanket insulation aren’t the best. They’re easily destroyed by moisture.
To get the best out of your insulation, you must closely follow the instructions for your insulation type of choice.
Insulation for Steel Buildings — An Essential You Can’t Ignore
Weighing the initial cost of construction against long-term energy efficiency is crucial when deciding which insulation type will best suit your steel building or metal home. The decision may not be as simple as it seems at first glance. But understanding how an efficient form of insulation can save you in utility costs over time could make all the difference.
Whether you’ve already built your steel building or are still in the planning stages, consider working with Norsteel for your steel building. We’ll help you get the best out of your building.
Steel building kits are a great way to save money and have some fun in the process. DIY metal buildings can be used for many purposes, from small steel sheds to large prefab metal buildings that can be customized to fit your needs. Whether you want it for storage or as a workshop, there is an option out there for you!
You can easily build an entertainment room for your family with our steel frame garage building kit. This is a DIY project that can be completed in less than two days.
The kit includes the following: steel frame/ribs, roof panels, and joists, metal plates for walls, bolts/nuts, and screws. We even offer optional insulation add-ons for all of our kits, so you can create the interior of your dreams!
Once the garage is complete, add a pool table, a flat-screen TV, or even a mini-golf course that the whole family can enjoy.
2. Build a Home For Your Dogs or Pets
If you’re looking for a DIY project that will keep your pup or cat entertained, our metal building kits are the perfect solution.
Let your pets roam around in their own living space with access to a backyard – indoor and outdoor living space for pets! Plus, try adding enrichment items such as kennels, ramps, and even cat trees.
Your pets will love their brand new DIY steel building and you’ll love how easy our buildings are to assemble.
3. Build Your Own Shower House
If you’re looking for a way to spend less time standing in line at your local gym or YMCA, this is the perfect DIY project! You can create a makeshift shower house by attaching one of our metal building kits to another steel structure such as a patio or deck.
This is a great way to save money on gym memberships, as well as make your outdoor space more functional!
The DIY metal building kits are easy enough for beginners and can be completed within just one weekend.
4. Build a Playhouse For Your Kids
Don’t just build any playhouse – build one with an industrial edge to it! Our DIY steel frame garage kit can be used to create a playhouse and is perfect for any little one’s imagination.
You can use either a small steel building or a prefab metal building kit to build a DIY playhouse. Once it’s built with one of our optional insulation packages, install drywall and paint. Then it’s simply a matter of decorating with pillows, blankets, their favorite toys, and whatever else their hearts desire!
Plus, if you’re looking for more outdoor space, you can use this DIY steel frame garage kit as a summer hang-out and have fun with your family on those warm weekend nights.
5. Build a Small Steel Building For Added Storage
If you need a small steel building but don’t have the space for an existing metal structure, there is always DIY. Building your own DIY steel shed can be accomplished by purchasing a prefabricated kit, which are easy to assemble with basic tools.
A metal building kit prefabricated metal shed is the perfect storage solution for those who have limited space on their property, or want an outdoor storage unit they don’t need to drive to.
It is also a great way to use up floor space for an individual who has just moved.
6. Build a Steel Frame Garage For Cars or Projects
A prefab garage constructed from DIY metal buildings kits can be used as storage or even as a workshop. The steel frame garage is a DIY project that can be done with low to no tools and minimal construction know-how in just one day.
If you need extra space for your cars, or simply want a place to work on personal projects, a DIY steel frame garage offers a great solution.
Buy Your DIY Steel Building Kit Today!
Now that you have some exciting ideas for your DIY metal building kits, it’s time to put your plans in action!
Our DIY steel building kits are affordable, easy to install, and can be used in a variety of ways.
DIY steel building or metal shed kit can be assembled in a day with the help of a few friends. These buildings are a great investment for homeowners who need additional space but don’t want to build an entire garage from scratch. Plus, your DIY steel building requires few, if any permits to be installed.
Are you considering building a metal prefabricated structure? Here’s what to expect when using a do-it-yourself metal building kit.
What to Expect When Building Metal Prefab Structure
Before construction commences, you ought to understand the scope of the project. The size of the construction will considerably determine the complexity of your build. You can use a small metal building kit for faster and cost-effective deployment of the structure. Here is an outline of what to expect from the process:
Time and Labor Commitments
A prefabricated build can be an intensive and time-consuming process. The time and labor requirements of the project depend on the type of DIY metal building kit you are using.
Conventional buildings take longer than prefab buildings. Erecting traditional structures is not as straightforward as with DIY metal building plans.
A traditional construction project typically requires putting together different parts of the building over an extended period of time. Managing this drawn out workflow can be overwhelming. There are usually many different parts, originating from different locations, arriving at different times of the project, all that you have to coordinate to prevent costly mistakes.
Like seasoned construction managers, you have to work in phases to avoid mishaps during construction. You can benchmark the progress of the project at any point during the construction.
Project Management and Timeline Estimation
You can categorize the process of putting up a metal building into three phases. The first involves putting up the trusses and columns for support. In the second phase, you’ll focus on completing and assessing the sturdiness of the main frame. And the final stage involves placing metal sheets in your prefab building.
Contrary to misconceptions, almost half of the time spent on the project will be on the last phase. Many enthusiasts assume that the most challenging phase is putting up the columns.
While putting up trusses and columns can be complicated, a lot can go wrong during the last stage of your project. The final phase is an intricate process requiring a series of panels to complete the structure.
Planning is essential for sheeting the structure to save time and to minimize the risk of redoing the work. But despite the construction challenges, there are a variety of sheeting profiles for cladding and finishing applications. You can choose colors to mimic other materials, such as wood and plastic. The versatility of the finish is ideal for home offices, storage rooms, eateries, and restaurants, among other applications.
Utilizing Do-It-Yourself Metal Building Kits
One of the benefits of using do-it-yourself building kits is that it saves time and labor. The prefab steel building kit is delivered complete with support trusses and columns.
You do not need sophisticated tools for your DIY building projects. The manufacturers can deliver the kit with holes for fasteners and bolts. You will get a guide with numbers corresponding to different sections of the structure.
Building kit manufacturers perform extensive checks to ensure the building is sturdy and durable. The design of the parts is as per your local building codes.
Why Use Steel Prefab Buildings
Steel is the most common choice for metal prefab buildings. The material is lightweight, making it easy and fast to assemble.
Steel has a high strength-to-weight ratio, which makes it suitable for many residential and industrial applications. You can disassemble the structure and move it to another location.
A wooden structure would be much more expensive to construct. Acquiring the materials for the project can take time. The delays imply that you’ll be generating leasing and warehousing costs. With steel buildings, you don’t have to worry about materials lying around.
Another advantage of steel structures is that they require less maintenance than other materials. Wood and concrete require a lot more care than metal prefab structures. That makes steel buildings an even more cost-effective option.
Professional Assistance During the Design Customization
Whether you are building extra storage or a home office, you may need to adjust parts of the structure. Fortunately, steel is versatile and flexible enough to accommodate most changes.
Steel kit buildings do not require an inner column. The absence of such obstructions, common in conventional buildings, allows you to optimize interior space. You can incorporate extensions into the structure in case you need to expand in the future.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to work alone through the design and construction process. You can consult experienced engineering experts to tailor the project to your needs.
Bottom-Line
The time and resources a metal building requires mostly depend on the size of the project. The smaller the construction, the easier it is to erect the structure. Steel is versatile and does not require inner columns. Steel simplifies the building process and allows for adjustments. If you want a custom design, we recommend working with a designer from the first phase. Visit our website to work with Norsteel for your steel building!
A custom steel garage kit offers homeowners, commercial business owners, mechanics, auto enthusiasts and gearheads the chance to create a space that truly fits their needs, whatever those might be.
Because steel is incredibly durable, malleable and adaptable, it’s the perfect material for garage construction. Plus, steel is 100% recyclable and can easily be modified, updated or reshaped over time.
When looking for your next project or workspace, steel is the way to go. And you can make it custom with Norsteel Buildings. Here are seven options for additional customizations you might want to consider:
1. Roofing
Roofs offer the height, spaciousness and protection from the elements you need, and there are several options on the table.
Standard roofs usually have horizontal sheeting that goes in the direction of the corrugation and have rounded corners. This is the most common default option.
There’s also an A frame style that looks more like the roof of a home. The corners are typically boxed and you may wish to include an overhang of awning near the front entrance. With the additional triangular height, you can also include vents or windows between your roof and door.
Another popular choice is a vertical roof, which, as its name implies, has sheeting running vertical. A vertical roof is often better in areas where there is heavy rain, snow or debris. The ridge cap at the peak of the roof helps keep the elements out and allows them to drain right off the building using gravity.
2. Siding
The siding of your building really comes down to the preference of horizontal or vertical corrugation, similar to roofing. A steel garage kit with vertical siding will handle debris better, which means it doesn’t need to be cleaned as often.
3. Size/Measurements
Of course, the size of your building and its dimensions are totally up to you. A one-car garage will be cheaper than a multi-car building, and if you intend to house heavy equipment you’ll need additional height.
Based on the position in which your building is oriented and how much equipment you intend to store, you might need additional gravel or pavement entry and exit points.
4. Doors
Your steel garage will have several points of entry, and each of these might require a different door type.
A traditional walk door often appears on the side of the building. Additionally, you can feature several rollup overhead doors in the front and back to allow large machinery and vehicles to enter and exit.
Your doors can also be customized to include horizontal window panels or even angular shapes beyond a conventional rectangle.
5. Windows
The placement and purpose of windows can be customized when fabricating your steel garage kit. A few considerations that often come into play are:
How many windows do I want/need?
Where should windows ideally be located throughout the building?
Are there safety measures to account for so that toxic fumes are able to be appropriately ventilated in a confined space?
Are windows cosmetic or functional to a given need?
How private/secure do I want my steel building to be?
Will a window obstruct a cable or column?
Will windows be insulated or have screens?
Will they be tinted or tempered?
Will they slide horizontally or vertically?
6. Skylights
Windows in the roof of your building can help with ventilation, increase visibility and bring in some rays from the outdoors. In buildings that are jam-packed and with limited window or door options, a skylight can give the impression of more depth and space.
7. Add-Ons
There are plenty of additional features you can tack on to your steel garage kit, now or in the future.
Some of the more common add-ons we see are:
Fire resistance and insulation materials for harsh weather and disaster prevention.
Surveillance and alarm systems, including CCTV, motion-sensored lights and keypads.
Climate-controlled features for ventilation, heat and cool air.
Because steel is so versatile, it’s easy for customers to purchase a simple setup one day and then slowly add more customizations over time.
Contact Norsteel Today!
Ready to tackle your next steel building project? Norsteel buildings can provide you with custom steel garage kit prices and help you select a design that meets your needs, today and tomorrow. Work with Norsteel for your steel building. Request a quote today!
If you’re thinking about insulating your metal building or structure, there are a few factors to consider. You know you want to keep the cool air in during the summer, and the warm air in during the winter, but what kind of insulation should you use? Do you need a vapour barrier? And just what is an R-value?
Norsteel has enlisted the help of metal building insulation-expert, Robert Tiffin, National Accounts Manager for the industry-leading insulation manufacturer Silvercote, to help describe some of the common forms of metal building insulation. Continue reading below for an overview of everything you need to know when it comes to insulating your metal building.
What is Insulation?
Insulation is any material used to cover, line, or separate which also prevents or reduces the passage, transfer, or leakage of heat, electricity, or sound. There are many types of insulation available on the market, but depending on your local energy codes and the intended use of your structure, you may be forced to use a particular form of insulation.
There are four main types of insulation used in metal building structures:
Glass wool (aka Fiberglass);
Mineral wool;
Spray foam (check with metal building manufacturer on whether your structure can accommodate this form of insulation);
Polyisocyanurate (sometimes called “Poly-iso”) rigid board insulation.
Fiberglass insulation with a foil facing.
As mentioned, depending on compliance requirements in your specific climate zone, municipal or regional codes may call for combinations of insulation products including faced glass wool and poly-iso rigid board. If the use of rigid board is cost-prohibitive there are alternative assemblies which meet the requirements of the standard/code.
What is Facing?
Put simply, facings are barriers which are attached to insulation to protect the surface of the insulation, hold it together, or act as a vapour retarder (see image above of fiberglass insulation with a foil facing).
Most commonly however, manufacturers attach a facing to act as a vapour barrier and/or air barrier. Facings are engineered to protect insulation from physical abuse, control moisture migration, and where necessary to meet fire codes and standards. Vapour retarders can be composed of vinyl, polypropylene, polyethylene, foil, or metalized polyester.
Why Insulate My Metal Building?
In simple terms, insulating your metal building will help keep the heated interior space warmer in the winter, and air-conditioned spaces cooler in the summer. Regardless of where you live, if you plan on using your metal building for human occupancy of any kind, it is generally recommended that you insulate your strcuture.
Here are just a few potential benefits that come from insulating your metal building:
Insulation reduces energy costs (in a conditioned building);
Insulation prevents moisture condensation. When temperature and dew-point are at the right combination, you will have condensation build up on your building’s roof and walls. This could result in water raining down in your building;
Insulation helps with acoustical performance, reducing noise levels. Most forms of insulation have acoustical and sound absorption properties which reduce interior reverberations and prevent transmission from exterior;
Insulation helps maximize your return on investment (ROI). The insulation acts as a barrier between metals, that in the presence of condensation could otherwise lead to rusting.
Mineral wool insulation.
Spray foam insulation.
Poly-iso board insulation.
Oh, and What is an R-Value?
R-value refers to the ability of the insulation to resist thermal transmission (conductive heat flow). The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness.
Single and multi-layer faced and unfaced cavity fill glass wool is the most typical seen in conventional construction. (R2.9 – R3.8 per inch (25.4 mm)). By far the most common type of insulation sold for prefab Steel building systems, is fiberglass laminated blanket insulation. Easy to install and cost effective, blanket insulation is available in several R-Values for both roof and walls.
Mineral wool is primarily composed of basalt (volcanic/igneous rock), and commonly used in fire-rated wall assemblies. It has a higher R-value per inch than glass wool. (R3.0 – R3.3 per inch (25.4 mm)).
Poly-Iso board has a high R-value per inch so is good for use when needing a consistent, uncompressed or continuous insulation where limited space is available. (R6.2 per inch (25.4 mm)).
Spray foam insulation materials can be sprayed, foamed-in-place, injected, or poured. Foam-in-place insulation is blown into wall cavities to insulate and reduce air leakage. Some installations can yield a higher R-value than traditional insulation for the same thickness, and can fill even the smallest cavities, creating an effective air barrier. (R3.6 – R4.3 per inch (25.4 mm)).
Speak with your metal building manufacturer for their recommendations, as factors such as energy codes, cost, installation techniques should all be considered before making your decision.
Contact Norsteel Today!
Today’s Pre-engineered steel buildings are energy efficient by design, engineering and construction. They are used for a multitude of unlimited purposes. This dictates that every prefab metal building system has individual requirements in terms of insulation. Pre-engineered metal buildings are compatible with several insulation options. All of these increase thermal efficiency and provide sound resistance.
Whether you are only interested in accounting for condensation, or whether you are heating a retail outlet or restaurant; it is important to discuss your heating and cooling requirements with your Norsteel Building consultant so that you can explore all the options available to you.
If you’re considering insulating your metal building, you need a team of experts who can help navigate functionality, costs, and local building requirements. When you engage Norsteel we become your partner throughout the entire construction process. Click here to contact us today for a free, no obligation quote on your next building project!
If you don’t have enough storage space or need a separate workspace, adding a small shed can be a great solution. Building a mini shed is an excellent investment for both homeowners and business owners. But it’s important to learn about the industry so you can invest in a shed that will hold up for many years.
Storage sheds come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with the option to custom-design the specs to match your unique needs. There are many online resources with blueprints and building instructions, but it can be costly and time-consuming to build a shed from scratch. Instead, many people find it easier to purchase a mini shed and either install it themselves or have a contractor do it.
With the right team, your mini shed can be installed in half the time of a conventional build. First, you will need to select the materials, colours, and design features for your new shed. Our team will then deliver all the building materials so you can get started on your shed right away!
Pros & Cons: Plastic, Wood, and Metal
As you learn more about the industry, you’ll find sellers who offer sheds in various materials: plastic, wood, and metal. The materials you choose will have a long-term impact on the performance and durability of the structure. So, take a bit of time to research your options before finalizing the design of your mini shed.
Here are a few things you need to know about these common materials:
Wood Sheds
Wood is the traditional material used for mini sheds. When homeowners choose a DIY approach, they often choose wood because it’s easier to work with when someone doesn’t have formal training in the industry.
The outside of a wooden shed can be painted and designed to make it stylish. Often, the goal is to match the appearance of the shed to the colours and design themes on other main buildings on site. Inside, wood sheds have exposed beams and an unfinished appearance.
Even though wood is versatile, there are some notable drawbacks to using this material for mini shed construction. For example, wood can attract insects and be challenging to clean if nests or infestations occur. Additionally, wood is vulnerable in harsh weather, resulting in deterioration and rotting that can happen over time. The risk of rotting is higher if the shed is improperly built or designed with low-quality materials.
It’s necessary to repaint a woodshed regularly since the paint will fade and peel over time. This restoration process can be time-consuming, requiring that the exterior surface of the shed be sanded and re-painted, every few years.
Plastic Sheds
Materials used for plastic sheds include vinyl, resin, or high-density polyethylene. These materials are typically lighter in weight compared to wood and metal, but the plastic can be strong and durable in all weather conditions. Sometimes, plastic sheds are reinforced using double-wall construction and integrated steel supports.
The advantage of plastic over wood is that the materials require little maintenance. You don’t need to worry about rusting or rotting because of weather conditions. Also, there is no need to paint or refinish the surface. The plastic is built to last, ensuring long-term durability for many years. Over time, the sunlight can deteriorate the plastic, causing the surface to fade and crack.
One drawback of a plastic mini shed is that the plastic can’t hold much weight hanging from the ceiling or walls. Some people don’t like the appearance of these sheds because the plastic looks more like a “playhouse” than a functional structure.
Metal Sheds
Metal is a great choice if you are looking for a material that meets all requirements for durability and quality. One of the most notable benefits of metal is that these sheds offer better security than the features offered with wood or plastic sheds.
Metal sheds are a smart investment because the material outlasts wood and plastic. Metal stays strong in all weather conditions, is fire resistant, and requires little to no maintenance. Additionally, solid construction ensures that metal sheds are rodent-proof and insect resistant. You don’t need to worry about potential damage to the shed walls because of insect infestations.
Keep in mind that there is a big difference in the quality of a cheap metal shed kit compared to the services offered by a more professional team like Norsteel. Cheap kits come with thin panels that often corrode over time. On the other hand, high-end metal sheds are made with rigid, strong metal that is corrosion-resistant.
Higher grade metal sheds offer security and quality that is unmatched compared to other shed materials. If you want to protect your tools or equipment, then a metal mini shed is the industry’s top choice. This superior quality costs a bit more compared to cheaper alternatives in the industry. But the extra cost is an excellent investment because of the long-term durability that comes from a well-built mini shed.
Mini Shed Top Choice: Metal Materials
Metal storage sheds offer a variety of benefits that aren’t available from wood or plastic. At first, it might be tempting to invest in wood because of the lower upfront cost. But the long-term costs can add up for maintenance and repair work on wood sheds. Installing the right shed gives you the advantage of protecting your equipment and avoiding expensive repair or replacement costs in the future.
When you look at the overall value of this investment, it’s easy to see that metal is the material of choice for mini shed design. We offer pre-engineered steel that is designed to provide the best functionality and durability features that you need. The value and strength of these materials provide the lasting quality that you need in the future.
If you have questions about mini shed design, then Norsteel Buildings is here to help. We provide a personalized experience for our clients. Reach out to learn more about available building applications. You can contact us online or call if you have questions or comments: 1-866-971-7575.
The everyday rigors faced by those in the agricultural industry require strong, durable buildings and equipment. When you or your organization are equipped with the right tools and reliable farm buildings, your overall efficiency is improved which, in turn, allows you to maximize your profits and yield simultaneously.
As rustic and quaint as wooden farm buildings may appear, when it comes to strength, durability, level of maintenance, cost, and even looks, steel buildings should be at the top of your list for which building material to use for a new farm or agricultural structure. A new building is an investment, and like any smart investment you want to be sure that the new construction will have long-lasting benefits for you and your farm.
Considering Alternative Farm Buildings
Steel is one of the most popular choices for new farm building constructions, but there are pros and cons to other materials as well. While metal farm buildings are often a clear choice for reasons we’ll examine in a moment, there are situations where wood or Quonset farm buildings might be a better solution:
Wood Farm Buildings
The quintessential image of a red barn is iconic. These timber-framed buildings have been used for years for animal shelter, equipment storage, crop storage, and other purposes on the farm. Wooden buildings have a high-degree of aesthetic appeal, and are fairly customizable (for a price) at the beginning of construction (later additions to a wood building however, are a different story). But there are a few potential drawbacks of choosing an organic material for your farm building.
For example, wood requires a lot of maintenance to avoid damage from weather conditions. Scorching sun can beat down the protective paint and finish on the building’s exterior, leaving the wood exposed to rain and snow. Over time, the wood has a high risk of rotting and mold, which causes health concerns and threatens the structure’s integrity. Additionally, wood can make it challenging for pest control as some pests (i.e., termites) are actually attracted to wood!
Quonset Farm Buildings
Quonset farm buildings have the advantage of steel construction and, at smaller sizes, they often carry a cheaper price tag compared to the cost of a full rigid frame building. These prefabricated barns, huts, and storage buildings also utilize floor-space effectively, as they require few (if any, depending on the size of your building) internal columns.
However, even though they are built using steel, the design of quonset structures limits the maximum efficiency you can get out of one of these buildings. Steel is undoubtedly a strong building material, but the curved shape of a quonset building actually limits the height and width of your building. In addition, a rigid frame steel farm building can be built up and with multiple stories if so desired; a quonset building, by contrast, cannot have multiple stories and your vertical storage space is limited because of building limitations but also because of the curved roof (which makes it difficult to fit, for example, industrial-sized storage shelving into your building).
Beyond the unique look of quonset structures, there really aren’t that many benefits when compared to rigid frame steel farm buildings.
Why Steel is the Best Choice for Farm Buildings
Let’s examine some of the features of steel farm buildings, and why this material is the absolute best choice for your next agricultural structure.
Strength and Security
A metal barn stays strong in all weather conditions. Steel materials are naturally resistant to the effects of the elements, but when equipped with an optional layer of finishing, metal structures are highly resistant to sun, rain, wind, snow, and even seismic activity. The durability of the metal makes steel buildings a clear choice if you want a building that will last for decades to come.
Since steel is hard to penetrate, it helps to maintain the security of your farm. Keep expensive farming equipment and valuable livestock protected inside the walls of your steel farm building.
Many of an agricultural operation’s assets come in the form of expensive equipment that a farm relies on for its continued operation. Such equipment includes things like tractors, ploughs, trailers, back-hoes, harvesters, and balers. Without these machines, it’s near impossible to survive in the farming industry. Keeping these machines inside a steel structure reduces the risk of theft and also protects your heavy equipment against damage from the changing weather conditions throughout the year.
Customizability
Every farm is different, which is why you require the ability to customize your buildings to accommodate the changing needs of your organization. Whether you need a well-ventilated building for livestock or are looking for a solution for storing product and feed, a metal farm building is easily customizable upfront and even years down the road when an expansion/addition to the building is required. Unlike quonset structures, rigid frame steel buildings can be designed specifically to meet the size, layout, and feature-requirements of your organization.
That iconic quintessential image of a red barn is actually very easily achieved with a steel building. Metal panels are available in bright red finishes as well as several other colours. Steel buildings allow for several customization options include roof accessories, personalised layouts, wall accessories, additional doorways, flashing and trim, insulation, clear-span designs, and multi-span frames. The possibilities are limitless.
And – they are expandable. As your farming operation grows, your metal building can grow with it.
Low Maintenance and Industry-Leading Warranties
Every hour you spend on building maintenance takes away time you could be spending on your fields or livestock. When you are investing in a farming or agricultural steel building, making sure you choose a solution that requires minimal maintenance is of the utmost importance.
A steel barn holds up in all weather conditions, ensuring durability and strength when the sun is shining, and the snow is falling. While you may have to perform minor periodic maintenance of some kinds – when compared to the maintenance required for wood buildings, steel is far and away the easier option (consider rot, mold, and other types of wear and tear that wooden buildings experience over time).
Plus, all Norsteel buildings come with industry-leading warranties, giving you additional peace of mind
Environmental Sustainability
Sustainability is a priority when building an agricultural steel building. Since steel is 100% recyclable and reusable, steel is the material of choice for environmentally conscious builders. In addition, steel buildings offer a number of construction-related environmental benefits: fast construction time reduces community disruption, reduced onsite waste, less pollution for heavy machinery, and a smaller job site footprint.
Not only does going green make you feel good, but it differentiates your farming operation by demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility. If you are looking for a way to give an excellent first impression, then steel buildings offer a great solution for your farm.
Affordability
For smaller farm buildings, you can choose from our line of EasyBuild steel building kits, and for larger or customized farm buildings we will work with you to design the perfect structure for your needs. Regardless of what size of building you require however, all of our steel components are prefabricated and pre-cut which keeps your building affordable and easy to install. The materials are fabricated before delivery, saving you money on material and labor costs since the steel will be ready to assemble once it arrives at your job site.
Other cost savings are enjoyed after the farm building is constructed. For example, you can expect lower insurance premiums and reduced maintenance expenses, saving tens of thousands of dollars over the life of the structure.
Customize Your Farm Building
What features are best for the design of a farm building? Speak with a member of our experienced team to learn Norsteel Buildings can help you design and construct the farm building of your dreams. We’ll discuss your plans for the building and provide recommendations for design, materials, and features.
Our knowledgeable staff members at Norsteel Buildings are happy to answer your questions and assist in identifying the optimal solutions for your farming operations. Contact us for a consultation using our online contact form or by calling: 1-866-971-7575.
In their search for a new building, many of our customers quickly recognize the benefits of a steel building solution. But there are different types of steel buildings, and not all offer the same efficiencies and benefits. There are four main types of steel buildings that can fall under the umbrella of being pre-engineered solutions. These are the Quonset Hut and its arch-type variants, the C-channel Metal building; the traditional Rigid Frame Metal Building system and the Hybrid steel building solution. Each of these steel building solutions has its merits, advantages and disadvantages; and each is better suited for specific functions and applications. We have explored the Rigid Frame and C-channel in great depth in previous blogs, let’s now turn our attention to the Quonset Hut and other arch-type steel structures.
Quonsets & Arch-Type Structures
The Quonset Hut was the first pre-engineered steel building which was originally manufactured as a temporary structure used during the World Wars. It consisted of pole arches with sheets of metal cladding lain over top, that were incredibly easy to transport and because of their stack-ability they could be easily assembled, and re-assembled, on the war front.
One feature most appreciated during this time was the ability of the structure to contain and lift when a bomb was detonated inside of it. And of course, because they were entirely made of steel components, the Quonset Hut was fire-resistant.
Tip: The Quonset and all arch-structures, like the C-Channel and Rigid Frame Metal Building Systems are made from 100% steel components. As such, they share an “A”-Fire Rating. Many customers don’t realize that this non-combustibility factor can save significant money on insurance premiums for the life of their pre-engineered steel building.
The Arch – Strength and Integrity
The Quonset Hut serves many great purposes – and truth be told, I have a bit of a protective affiliation for it, because it was the first steel building I was taught to recognize, and to sell. The most amazing thing about the Quonset, is that the integrity of the entire structure remains entirely dependent on the integrity of each individual arch. And anyone who has traveled to Europe and witnessed the historical architecture there, understands the strength of that arch.
That the arch provides the structural support for the building means that all Quonsets have clear-span interior. As is the case for all pre-engineered steel buildings, columns and posts are not required for structural integrity. This means there is nothing to get in the way of 100% usable interior space.
Quonsets are pre-engineered, requiring conformity to National Building Codes and loadings. This means that like all pre-engineered steel buildings, Quonsets must be custom engineered to withstand the loads and codes of the specific location in which they will be erected. Simply speaking, the gauge of the steel determines the ultimate strength of the structure – the lower the gauge of steel, the thicker and stronger each arch will be.
The arches of a Quonset are deep corrugated galvalume steel, and the corrugation itself provides added structural strength to the overall structure. It also provides the exterior of the building so that it is structure and covering all in one. This is part of the economical design of the Quonset – The surface and structure are one in the same.
Depending on the width of the structure, several segments are bolted together to form each individual arch and each arch is then bolted to the next arch in sequence. The arches are anchored to a foundation – usually a floating slab. An industrial base plate which connects the arches to the foundation, is arguably one of the most important components in the construction of all Arch-type steel structures. This plate is extremely valuable to line up the arches properly without any torch or twisting.
Tip: If you are buying a Quonset, make sure to include the base plate connector in your overall cost. This important component, is an optional feature that you don’t want to overlook.
The first Quonsets were frequently referred to as dome structures. Their shiny, half-moon shapes adorn many of our Canadian provinces as it quickly became a fantastic solution for agricultural applications, especially in terms of livestock housing, and crop storage. But customers soon understood that there was a significant amount of space that was being lost on the sidewalls of the Quonset. Because of the structural design of the arch, the sides of these original steel structures, are not vertical and this loss of space on the sides of the structure quickly adds up.
Tip: In comparing Arch-type steel buildings with other pre-engineered building systems one very important factor for customers to consider is the height measurement. The height of an Arch building is taken from the center of the highest component – the highest point of the arch. The height of a c-channel or rigid frame instead, is taken at the EAVE HEIGHT (not at the peak) – where the sidewall meets the roof. For example, an arch building with a listed height of 12′ may be comparable to a gable building with a height of 9′, depending on the pitch.
Structural Security & Aesthetic Appeal
In an effort to deal with this lost space, Quonset manufacturers created several different models of the original arch building.
And although in many of these new designs, the lost space is minimized, there has been a trend away from these arch-type structures for two main reasons: high snow loadings and, aesthetic appeal.
In the last few decades there have been many incidences of unexpectedly high snow fall mixed with heavy rain, in many regions of North America. These unprecedented weather conditions caused structures of all types to collapse. Naturally, the devastation and loss of property evoked significant concern and resulted in the implementation of new and stringent National Building Codes. These new codes in turn, had the effect of limiting the use of large, arch-type structures in many areas, because the gauge of the steel required to pass approval was so thick that it increased the overall building cost dramatically. Quonsets became comparable to other traditional pre-engineered steel building alternatives in terms of price, and were no longer the affordable option for large-scale projects.
Tip: The types of loads and their magnitudes are critically important to the design and construction of any pre-engineered steel building. Both the location of the site where a building will be located, as well as the location and positioning of the building ON THAT site, are extremely important in determining the integrity of any pre-engineered steel structure. If a building is going to be located in an area with obstructions, other buildings or trees for example, then that building must be engineered to withstand the additional snow that may occur as a result of the snow shadow – that is, the redirected snow accumulations that are caused by the positioning of those obstructions, in relation to the steel building. Today, Pre-engineered Steel Building suppliers are very weary of obtaining this vital information from customers. When discussing your project, be certain to share information about your site with your Building Consultant.
At about the same time that the NBC became more stringent, many municipalities also passed Bylaws prohibiting the use of arch-type structures in commercial and residential areas, based on their aesthetic appeal. Several lobbyist groups took up against the shiny surface of the galvalume arches, saying they looked unconventional, industrial and unattractive in municipal areas with high frequency and residential space.
Since it is generally not recommended to apply paint to the arches of these structures, aesthetic creativity and customization are generally limited to the Endwalls of these metal buildings. Many customers are happy to build their own Endwalls out of wood or steel panels in order to adorn the front of their metal building systems.
Tip: If you are buying a Quonset, make sure to find out if both Endwalls of the structure have been included in your cost summary. Many suppliers consider the Endwall an optional feature and include it at an additional cost to the standard kit.
Another factor for some customers is that Door and Window Openings are typically limited to the Endwalls of the Quonset. Recall that the single most important factor in establishing structural integrity in the arch building, is the arch itself. It follows that placing openings on the sides of the arch requires extensive engineering to ensure integrity – at an increased cost. The limited use of door openings on the sides of the structure has implications for both aesthetics and functionality.
All of these things combined have made arch-type structures applicable to a very specific consumer market: Typically those looking for large structures in areas with little to no snow fall; and those customers who are looking for smaller buildings – up to approximately 35’ in width, for use as Backyard shops and garages. Often these buildings are marketed as do-it-yourself kits and, although it can be tedious and time consuming to bolt together each arch into the next with thousands of bolts, the main challenge for DIY customers is to maintain the alignment of the arches without twisting during the erection process.
Tip: As mentioned previously, make sure to discuss the inclusion of the base plate connector in your building quote. This connector will help to diminish the twisting of the arches during construction. Equally important, if you are considering an Arch-type steel structure, find out if your supplier has included the butyl rubber caulking in your cost summary. Many suppliers consider this caulking an optional feature and include it only at an additional cost to the standard kit. But Butyl rubber caulking applied between the arches during the construction process has been shown to reduce the possibility of water leakage in these buildings. It is extremely difficult to apply effectively after the building has been erected.
Closing Out
There is little doubt that the Quonset Hut and other arch-type structures have provided valuable structural space for many customers.
Once a very affordable steel solution, arch-type structures have suffered in popularity as changes to the National building codes and to municipal bylaws imposed stringent guidelines that restricted their use in areas with high snow loads, and in several residential and commercial zones.
As a result, the Quonset Hut and other arch-type steel structures, have become limited to servicing a very specialized segment of the consumer market. Their increased costing and issues with aesthetics, have inspired customers to look into other types of pre-engineered metal building solutions in order to get the benefits previously sought from the Quonset. Pre-engineered solutions, like the C-channel, are beginning to replace smaller arch-type structures because they offer the same do-it-yourself construction, with a more traditional aesthetic appeal and at a comparable cost. And for larger buildings with wider constitutions, Pre-engineered Rigid Frame steel buildings have become an alternative solution, especially in areas where environmental conditions are of high consideration.
Contact Us Today!
When you buy a building from Norsteel, we become your partner throughout the construction process. We work with you, or with your general contractor, to ensure that all your building requirements are met. Your project is our project, and we’ll be with you the whole way through.
For more information on specific building applications, click here to learn more about our line of products. If you have any questions or comments, click here to contact us today.
Historically, people have turned to wood for construction because it is a familiar material that is “user-friendly”. Pole Barns and wooden structures are some of the most common building structures around. A century ago, wood was easily the best choice for materials and was found in abundance all over the world. It was inexpensive, readily available and owners usually designed and built their own structures because it provided a flexible and very forgiving erection process.
Despite the initial savings in price, over the years, steel construction has become more popular and presents significant advantages over wood. Pre-engineered steel buildings are now the method of choice for most commercial, industrial and warehouse applications. Even the agricultural and livestock sector, which traditionally has relied heavily on wood for construction, is switching to steel.
Here are some of the reasons why steel structures have become the preferred alternative to wood construction.
Comparing Pre-Engineered Metal Buildings to Structures Made from Wood
Greater Structural Strength and Integrity
Steel building components are manufactured to very rigid standards and specifications. There are no seconds or substandard materials in a pre-engineered metal building. Each part in a metal building meets strict industry standards in terms of strength; and is designed specifically for its pre-determined use in that specific metal building. This is important as we discuss the custom requirements for each particular job: Every component in a steel building is designed and manufactured to meet the strict load criteria in each individual structure, ensuring that each steel building will handle all the load requirements of its specific site location. Because of this, properly designed and assembled metal buildings have withstood hurricanes, tornadoes and extreme conditions worldwide.
Quicker, Easier, and Less Expensive to Construct
Each pre-engineered steel building component is designed and made specifically for your building. Each component is designed and manufactured to match perfectly with the others. Each piece is labelled and easy to identify and each piece is cross-referenced on the assembly drawings. This means that your steel building – regardless of size, will arrive as a perfect kit, and each piece will fit together precisely. Because each component is detailed and specifically made for each particular structure, erecting the building is quick and easy. In turn, because Steel buildings are assembled quickly and easily, they require less labour. There is little to no waste and little to no cutting, sawing or welding on-site.
Wood buildings take much longer to erect than pre-engineered packages, simply because all the components are sourced and acquired separately. There is more measuring, more cutting, more margin for error and all of this takes a significant amount of time. It also produces much more waste in total, as components must be made to fit once they arrive to the job-site.
One last consideration is that the price of wood is constantly fluctuating. Frequent lumber shortages drive the cost of wood up. This encourages the use of “green” wood in construction projects which can result in warping, cracking, and splitting. These cracks in the wood members effect seal-ability, which decreases both the energy efficiency and the structural integrity of the final structure.
Riding arenas, like those pictured above, can be built in either wood or steel but steel components are quicker to assemble, safer over the lifetime of the building, and more affordable than wood.
Safer – Over the Lifetime of the Building
Steel components won’t weather or degrade over time like wood. Steel won’t decay. Steel will remain rigid for the life of the building. This structural strength means less stress on fasteners and components; which in turn provides a safer building for years to come.
Alternatively, owners of wooden structures need to invest in continuous maintenance. With wood, wherever there is moisture close to the base, there is an opportunity for decay. Decay causes structural insecurity and increases the risk of collapse. To deal with the natural properties of wood, most wood posts are pressure treated, but this process can be poisonous to livestock or other animals if ingested.
Importantly, wood carries with it the fear of loss due to fire. One very real peace of mind that comes with choosing a Steel building is the security that your people, livestock, and your property, are safe; because steel is non-combustible.
Greater Design Flexibility
Wood structures require more interior columns for support. This takes up valuable floor space that could otherwise be used.
Because steel is much stronger than wood, it allows for much greater design flexibility. You can typically span the entire width of your building with no interior posts required and the columns can be set further apart on the sidewalls. The result is a much more open building with less weight and greater structural integrity.
When wood trusses are used to accomplish wide open spaces, they must be layered and joined in several places. This increases costs exponentially. This is why wood structures typically involve several interior posts and beams that limit the useable, clear span area, decreasing work space.
Lower Maintenance Costs
Steel components won’t warp, split, twist, swell, shrink or decay, like wood. Steel components will not have to be replaced or repaired and will remain long after the wood frame building is gone.
Pre-engineered metal buildings use a minimum heavy 26-gauge sheeting for roofing and siding, as opposed to the light 28 or 29 gauge material used on most wooden pole barns. Fasteners are also higher quality for steel buildings and won’t need to be replaced like on a typical wooden pole building. The light gauge metal sheeting on most wood pole buildings will require replacement over time, and wood runners hold moisture against the light gauge metal sheeting, causing the sheeting and the fasteners to rust prematurely. In such cases, the fasteners lose their grip and the sheeting becomes loose requiring repair or replacement. Additionally, regular high maintenance is required to escape rodents and burrowing insects, and to limit the amount of rot and mold in wooden structures.
When you chose a pre-engineered metal building, these things are not issues. Steel Structures are virtually maintenance-free.
Longer Economic Life – More Durable and Worry-Free
Steel offers maximum functionality while still maintaining the aesthetic quality many seek from wooden buildings.
Steel buildings simply don’t wear out over time like wooden structures. Barring some catastrophic event, your steel building will last a lifetime. Wooden buildings have an economic life of 15-20 years and require lots of maintenance along the way. After approximately 7 to 10 years, wood siding and roofing will have to be replaced. If non-metal roofing is used, it will also require replacement at some point. And as a wooden structure ages, wood members naturally dry out, which causes shrinking, warping, swelling and cracking. Preventing the wooden structural members from drying out is necessary to maintain a secure structure but requires continuous maintenance and a watchful eye.
In contrast, a pre-engineered metal building requires virtually no maintenance and provides decades of worry-free service.
Stronger Foundation
One of the first objections some people make to a steel building is that it requires a concrete foundation and floor, adding significantly to the initial cost of the project. A metal building doesn’t always require a full slab, although it does require concrete piers at each column location to provide proper structural stability and meet design load requirements. The required piers provide load bearing capacity and an above grade connection so that the posts are not subject to moisture and decay. Foundation requirements are dependent on building applications as well as site location. Local permit offices will assist in dictating which foundations will be deemed appropriate for specific buildings and municipalities.
While the foundation does add to the initial cost of a metal building system, the advantages over the life of the building are tremendous and outweigh the original expense.
Steel Construction is Better for the Environment
Steel is 100% recyclable and is the only recycled material that doesn’t lose strength when it is recycled. Remember that there is also no waste when a steel building is manufactured and erected, because no substantial cutting is required on-site and all cut-offs at the factory are recycled.
When compared to wooden construction which is wasteful and non-recyclable, Metal buildings are the best choice for the environment.
Steel Buildings Can Actually Save You Money – Year after Year
Apart from continuous savings related to maintenance, steel buildings are recognized with an “A” fire rating. Wood buildings instead, have a “C” rating for fire. Generally speaking, what that means is that a wood structure is more likely to burn. Many customers don’t realize that this non-combustibility factor can save significant money on insurance premiums for the life of their pre-engineered steel building.
Closing Out
Steel buildings offer many advantages over wood structures.
At first glance, the price savings afforded by a wood building may seem very attractive to customers. But when comparing different solutions for required construction, we recommend that our customers consider all the factors.
Compare all the costs – not just the initial costs for site prep, materials and labour, but also the longer term costs of ownership – costs like maintenance, repairs, and insurance. Decide how much value you place on safety and environmental friendliness, too.
When considering all the advantages, customers agree that the value of a pre-engineered steel building far outweigh the initial cost savings of a building made from wood.
Contact Us Today!
When you buy a building from Norsteel, we become your partner throughout the construction process. We work with you, or with your general contractor, to ensure that all your building requirements are met. Your project is our project, and we’ll be with you the whole way through.
For more information on specific building applications, click here to learn more about our line of products. If you have any questions or comments, click here to contact us today.
Most customers who are looking for a steel building have a very good idea of what they want their end project to look like. Many customers are familiar with the basic concepts and terminologies that are used to discuss structures in the Metal Building industry. All customers can benefit from a good understanding of measurements and dimensions as they process the information that they receive from their metal building provider and interact with their building consultants.
In this blog, we provide an overview of the pre-engineered steel building system. We will share some of the more popular steel building designs and go over the basic concepts of a metal building system. It is important to take some time to explain the important measurements that customers need to know and understand before they begin their search for a metal building provider.
The Metal Building System
Steel, also known as red iron, is used across a multitude of industries in the construction segment.
The Properties of Steel – What Makes Steel so Great?
The primary advantage of a steel building is its strength. Steel, as it comes from the steel mill, is incredibly versatile. It is this versatility that provides engineers with the flexibility to design Norsteel steel buildings with a high degree of accuracy. Steel is a plentiful resource – we have an abundance of it, and it is a well-accepted material world-wide. Steel has a very high degree of workability, and can be manipulated easily. It can be cut and welded, shaped and formed so that it satisfies an endless array of requirements. And steel buildings are resilient. They can take a great deal of abuse and it doesn’t wear down like other materials.
Finally, and perhaps best of all, steel is recyclable, and through the recycling process, it does not lose strength.
Building Designs
All our consultants here at Norsteel Buildings are trained to identify each customer’s specific structural requirements. Requirements are then matched to the steel building design which will fit that customer’s particular metal building specifications. Different applications and different site locations may require different designs, and not all steel buildings are created equally. Even what looks like a simple box has to be engineered to exact specifications.
At Norsteel, we supply pre-engineered steel buildings in all shapes and sizes. Because of their versatility, these steel buildings can be engineered to join to each other and to existing structures, creating an unlimited array of shapes and configurations.
Here are some of the more typical metal building designs:
I. Double Slope/Gable Steel Building
The gable steel building is a symmetrical steel structure – it is by far the most common Norsteel metal building design produced. It offers an unlimited number of optional features and is used for an unlimited number of applications.
Double slope metal buildings can also be designed to be a-symmetrical, when customers require that the peak be off-set for a specific application.
II. Single Slope Steel Building
The single slope metal building is used for several specific applications ranging from agricultural storage, to commercial facilities with solar panel installations. Single slope steel buildings are well suited in spaces with multiple structures to accommodate snow shadow from existing buildings. The single slope steel building is designed to be self-supporting.
III. Lean-To Steel Building
A lean-to steel building is designed to attach to another steel building system, or to an existing structure. It typically uses the structural support of the existing structure on the attaching side. Typical uses include car ports; porches; and drive through windows for fast food restaurants.
IV. Steel Structures with Mezzanines
Several metal building projects require a second floor. When the mezzanine is attached and supported by the metal building, it must be engineered to maintain the structural integrity of the metal building system. Norsteel can supply pre-engineered steel structures with up to 3 floors. These can be designed as partial mezzanines for viewing galleries, or full mezzanines to provide complete upper floor space.
V. Steel Structures with Cranes
Several metal building projects are designed for warehouses, mines, and manufacturing plants and must be pre-engineered to support 5-, 10-, or even 20- ton, cranes. Some steel structures have several cranes in each building. Our crane buildings are designed with a standing seam roof system to prevent leakage resulting from vibrations caused by the auxiliary load of the moving crane.
Basic Concepts of Pre-Engineered Steel Structures
Most metal building systems have four outside walls. Two of these walls we call the sidewalls and the other two walls we call the endwalls. As their names imply, the Sidewalls of a steel building are located where the roof meets the walls in a line that is parallel to the ground. In other words, Sidewalls are a consistent height. In contrast, the endwalls are not a consistent height (unless the roof is perfectly flat – which is not typically the case in pre-engineered steel buildings). The height of the endwall changes where the walls meet the roof line. Endwalls are named either left or right. Sidewalls are either front or back.
Tip: Many customers think of the left endwall as the front of their building. Make certain you are in alignment with your consultant when you are discussing each wall of your steel structure.
The line where the sidewalls meet the roof on a steel building is called the eave. It usually has trim to make it look nice in appearance and gutters to remove rain flow from the roof. The distance from the bottom of the base plate to the point where the roof meets the wall, or the eave, is called the eave height.
Tip: The eave height is important because in steel structures, we measure the height of the building according to the eave height (not the peak height). Some municipalities impose a total height restriction. If this is the case in your municipality, then your building consultant needs to be informed so that your eave height can be calculated accordingly.
In steel buildings, we refer to the spot where the two sides of the roof meet on the highest point of each endwall as the peak or ridge. The gable instead is the triangular section that runs from each eave line to the peak and from the eave line on one sidewall to the eave of the other sidewall.
Metal Building Packages from Norsteel all come equipped with trim to enhance appearance. The line where the endwall meets the roof is finished with a piece of trim known as rake fascia. The line where the sidewalls meet the endwall is finished with a piece of trim known as the corner trim. And the peak receives a plastic or metal cap that we call a peak cap.
Tip:Trim packages can be an effective way of enhancing the appearance of your steel building system. Trim is available to customers in several standard colours.
Measurements of Pre-Engineered Steel Structures
A thorough understanding of the measurements that determine size and appearance of a steel building is incredibly important both from an aesthetic and functionality point of view.
Roof Pitch
The roof pitch or slope is usually shown as rise over run.
Typical steel buildings can be designed in several different pitches, but depending on their width and application, most steel buildings are designed with a pitch that is ½-in-12 (.5:12 or .5/12), 1-in-12 (1:12 or 1/12), 2-in-12 (2:12 or 2/12) and 4-in-12 (4:12; 4/12).
For small steel buildings, like in the case of a backyard shop and garage, a roof pitch of 2/12 is by far the most common. Larger steel buildings, like warehouses or arenas, typically call for a 1/12 pitch. For buildings requiring a more traditional, residential appearance, a more defined peaked appearance such as an 8/12 pitched roof may be desirable.
Tip: When we are speaking of roof pitch we are looking at how much of a peak the roof will have. Although many customers consider the roof pitch to be incredibly important in order to establish the ideal aesthetic appearance for their steel building, the degree of slope also has intense importance in terms of snow and rain accumulation.
Inches are used as the basic unit for roof pitch. For example, a 2:12 roof pitch means that the roof rises 2 inches for every 12 inches measured horizontally.
Dimensions & Measurements
Like every other product in this world, steel building systems have three basic dimensions: width, length and eave height.The width is the distance from the outside of the sidewall girt on one side to the outside of the sidewall girt on the other side. The length is the distance from the outside of the endwall girt on one end to the outside of the endwall girt on the other end. The eave height is the distance from the finished floor to the point where the roof meets the sidewall.
Tip: When you are speaking with your steel building consultant, make absolutely certain that the dimensions you are discussing are clear. All metal building providers use out-to-out measurements. The interior space will be reduced in order to compensate for the rigid frame itself. If you require a definite clearance within the building, you must make certain to tell your consultant.
The most important message here is that all dimensions are taken from the outside edge of the girt to the outside edge of the girt. Clarifying these “out-to-out” measurements is crucial.
Final Thoughts
When we first meet with our customers, most of them already have a basic understanding of their structural requirements. They know how they want to be able to use their building and what needs it has to satisfy; and they have a good idea of how they want their finished structure to look.
When you are collaborating with your steel building consultant, be sure you are on the same page. When discussing locations for windows and service doors, it is important to be clear where they should be located; when talking about garage door openings or hangar door locations, it is important to understand the clearance factors involved; and when you are discussing interior clear-span, usable space, it is important that you are calculating dimensions based on out-to-out measurements.
Having a basic understanding of the concepts and terminologies used in the Metal Building industry will help customers to ensure that they are communicating the essential information to their steel building consultant. But don’t be overwhelmed.
Your building consultant is an instrumental resource in assisting you to ensure that all your needs are communicated and met. It’s our job to walk you through the entire process and to make sure that your finished steel building is exactly as you envisioned it.
Contact Us Today!
When you buy a building from Norsteel, we become your partner throughout the construction process. We work with you, or with your general contractor, to ensure that all your building requirements are met. Your project is our project, and we’ll be with you the whole way through.
For more information on specific building applications, click here to learn more about our line of products. If you have any questions or comments, click here to contact us today.
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