Features to Understand in Steel Buildings

Would you go look for a new car without figuring out which features are most important to you? Chances are that you know exactly what you’re looking for, from ABS brakes to the color of the interior upholstery. Steel buildings represent a similar investment, but few people even know which features to consider when purchasing a steel building, let alone understand how to evaluate them. Here’s a few of the most important features to look for when you’re buying a steel building.

Metal Gauge

The strength of your metal building will depend in large part on the thickness of the walls – the thicker the walls, the stronger they’ll be. Most experts – including the people who write the building codes for most cities and states – consider 24 gauge to be the minimum thickness for steel buildings. Be aware that when it comes to metal thickness, lower numbers are thicker, so 28-gauge steel is actually thinner and less sturdy than 24-gauge steel.

The gauge is important for a number of reasons, not the least of which is safety. Sturdier steel buildings are also less likely to be damaged by hail, or to bend or be pierced if someone bangs against it or attempts to break into your shed, garage or storage building.

Corrosion Resistance

In addition to gauge, consider the type of coating applied to the walls and what protection they offer the steel building in terms of corrosion resistance. Most steel buildings are galvanized, and many also have a powder, paint or PVC coating over the steel. The coatings will contribute to rust resistance and resistance to weathering and other atmospheric contaminants. If you live in an area with heavy concentrations of salt or acid n the air, for example, you’ll want to find steel buildings that are rated higher on corrosion resistance.

Roof Style

There are a number of roof styles common to steel buildings. While most roof styles are appropriate for most uses, there are a few things to keep in mind if you live in a region prone to heavy winds or heavy snow loads. Peaked roofs, for example, make steel buildings fit better with surrounding houses and buildings, but may not provide the strength needed to hold up under a heavy snow load. Domed or rounded roofs, such as those in Quonset buildings, often provide the most strength and weather resistance.

Understanding the important features in steel buildings and the different options you have can help you decide on the best metal building for your needs.