Steel building structures are growing at an impressive pace. In 2022, the global market for prefabricated buildings will stand at 117.4 billion USD, with experts predicting that these figures to grow substantially in the future.
Take, for example, the costs of construction. Traditional construction requires you to buy various materials, hire labor, and incur miscellaneous charges before completion. In contrast, all you need for steel construction are the primary components you can assemble without requiring heavy machinery.
The increasing popularity of pre engineered steel buildings can be attributed to their durability, efficiency, sustainability, and low maintenance costs. Although traditional construction methods involving concrete or wood have their advantages, they are few compared to prefabricated buildings.
However, if this is your first time installing a steel building, these questions will give you some idea about them.
Why are these structures made from steel?
Steel gives you the benefits of sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Steel, unlike other materials, is resistant to damage from fire, heavy rain, and harsh weather conditions.
It can withstand a significant amount of damage before requiring replacement. Moreover, it is eco-friendly because it is recyclable, which is a good option if you are environmentally conscious. It also gives you the advantage of scalability because you can expand your establishments or make structural additions whenever required.
Buildings made from steel are aesthetically pleasing and look attractive even from a distance. It isn’t easy to find a material that combines the elements of high functionality with an attractive appearance.
What does a prefab kit include?
To erect a building, you require some components. A collection of these components is called a prefab kit. A company manufactures these under controlled conditions at their factory and, upon completion, delivers them to you on a flatbed truck.
A kit contains roof panels, sidewall panels, framing systems, trim packages, gutter systems, and secondary framing components. Each of these is necessary to build your structure.
The roof panels usually come with a purlin-bearing rib with an extra lip that prevents dirt, leaves, and other external elements from entering. Secondary framing components include a girt, eaves strut, door header, end-wall rafter, and door header.
How does a company deliver the parts?
Most companies deliver these parts on a flatbed truck. Their representatives will contact you a few days before the shipping date, informing you of the delivery details. Their presence will complicate the process and delay the delivery process. You should ensure that the job site is clear of obstacles and that the truck driver has a clear access.
Do these buildings require a permit?
The two factors determining whether you require a permit are your building’s size and the site location. The local permit office will decide if you need a clearance. If you need one, the authorities will ask you to submit drawings stamped by a certified engineer with a license to practice in your location.
What happens if something is damaged?
Although companies take the utmost precaution while delivering the parts, sometimes damage is inevitable. If you receive a damaged part, you should take photographs immediately and contact the company.
Many companies and people prefer erecting pre engineered steel buildings over traditionally constructed ones because of their benefits. They are highly durable, require less maintenance, are easy to assemble, and are friendly to the environment.