|
There has been a nationwide increase in the popularity of steel buildings – but for people unfamiliar with steel construction, however, there are normally a number of questions about steel and the types of buildings that are offered with steel construction. One of the first questions usually posed about steel buildings is how “customer friendly” they are. Detailed assembly construction plans are easy to understand and come with most building purchases. These will include an Anchor Bolt Plan for the foundation and an Engineer Certified Erection Drawing for the building. If the purchaser has some construction experience, and the building is not too large, they may consider assembling the building by themselves. The use of a qualified erector, however, is strongly advised for larger buildings and if the consumer has no previous construction experience.
Most steel building manufacturers and suppliers will also provide customer service personnel and specialists, at their corporate headquarters, to answer any questions during the construction of their steel building.
Purchasers of steel buildings often question whether a foundation is necessary for a steel building. Aside from some limited agricultural applications, the answer is yes. A properly designed and poured foundation is essential to the stability of the structure and can add to the virtually maintenance-free characteristic, as well as the durability.
Condensation is another question of concern in steel buildings. All buildings, regardless of material, produce some condensation, so the design process of the building should include adequate ventilation allowances.
The proper painting of a steel building is also a consideration. Most steel buildings are pre-painted prior to shipment from the factory, using a Siliconized Polyester paint variety. Although painting is not required for protection from the weather, it is aesthetically pleasing and will help to meet any community covenant requirements.
Some people question the use of steel as a substitute for traditional materials such as brick, masonry, or wood. Steel does not rot, shrink, split, or warp as do some of these materials. Also, steel is non-combustible. Steel is very easy to handle, and is stronger and less expensive than other, more conventional materials. It possesses excellent inherent strength and can be engineered to be highly fire, earthquake, and hurricane resistant. Steel products are recyclable and can weigh up to 60% less than wood building components.
Building code compliance is the last consideration. Reputable steel building manufacturers and suppliers professionally design and engineer their steel buildings to meet applicable IBC, UBC, and BOCA codes. Most local codes will be met or even exceeded by professionally engineered plans. It is the consumer’s responsibility, however, to obtain all necessary approvals from the local building code office for their intended steel building project.
|
