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The popularity of steel building construction continues to increase nationally. But for many people unfamiliar with steel construction there are usually a number of questions about steel; buildings and their construction .
A key question that is often asked is about the construction of a steel building and if it is “customer friendly”. Most steel buildings come with easy to understand and detailed assembly constructions. These normally include an Engineer Certified Erection Drawing and an Anchor Bolt Plan for the foundation. Consumers with construction experience and needing a smaller steel building may want to consider constructing the building themselves. Consumers without construction experience and in need of a larger steel building should definitely use the services of a qualified erector. Additionally, most professional steel building manufacturers and suppliers provide specialists and customer service personnel at their corporate headquarters to answer any questions during the erection of your steel building.
Consumers question whether a foundation is required for a steel building. In most instances, aside from some agricultural applications the answer is yes. A properly poured concrete slab is essential to the stability of a steel building and can enhance its minimal maintenance and long life characteristics.
There is often a question about condensation in the interior of a steel building. All buildings produce some condensation. A steel building should have adequate ventilation added in the design process of the structure. Proper ventilation greatly minimizes condensation issues within steel buildings.
Painting of a steel building is often brought up. In today’s day and age most steel buildings are pre-painted with a Siliconized Polyester paint at the factory. Painting is not required for weather protection, however most building codes and community covenants find a painted building more professional looking and aesthetically pleasing.
Some consumers question the use of steel when compared to more traditional building materials such as wood, brick, or masonry. Steel does not warp, rot, shrink, or split. It is also non-combustible. Structural steel is easy to handle, stronger, and less expensive than almost any other type of conventional building material. Steel has abundant inherent strength and can be very resistant to fire, earthquake, and hurricane damage. Steel components can weigh up to 60% less than wood members and steel products are recyclable.
The final major question is about building code compliance. Most steel building manufacturers or suppliers professionally design and engineer their steel buildings to meet IBC, UBC, or BOCA codes. The professionally engineered plans will verify that it will meet your local building codes. However, it is the consumer’s responsibility to check with the local building code office to establish that a steel building will be approved for the job site and intended use.
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