Tips for Erecting Steel Buildings

Steel buildings are the most cost effective option for nearly any type of building project. They become even more affordable when you opt to do the erection of your new metal building rather than hire a construction company to do it for you. This quick overview can help you decide if you have what it takes to put up your own steel building or if you should bring in a contractor to do the job.

Site Preparation

Before your steel building arrives, you should have the cement foundation prepared and ready to build on. In most cases, even the experts agree that this is the one phase where you should bring in a contractor who is experienced in pouring concrete slab foundations. They call it a foundation for a reason – your entire building depends on it being done right. Unless you’ve got a lot of experience pouring foundations, let the experts handle this part.

While you’re considering site preparation, keep in mind that you’ll need a way for a big truck to get close enough to the building site to unload the materials, and you’ll need room to unload and stack all the building components.

Unloading the Truck

When the truck arrives, you’ll be responsible for unloading it – the driver just drives. You’ll need a crane or forklift to manage the unwieldy components, and a friend or two to help with the job. You’ll also need to check everything as it comes off the truck to make sure it’s all there, and it’s all in good condition. You’ll have to notify the manufacturer and the driver of any problems immediately, or you may be stuck with it.

Erecting the Shell

The main frame of your metal building goes up first. Once the frame is up, you’ll attach the girts and the purlins, frame the doors and the windows and attach the exterior sheeting to the frame. Finally, you’ll fit the doors, windows, vents and the trim. Your entire shell is now complete, but your building is far from complete.

Finishing the Interior

Once your building shell is standing, it will be time to finish the interior. Most steel buildings require insulation to make them habitable, for example. If you intend to wire your building for electricity or add plumbing, this is the time to add it. Again, unless you are a licensed plumber or electrician, it’s probably best to hand that part of the job off to a pro. In fact, in some parts of the country, the law may require a licensed electrician or plumber to inspect the job before your building will be approved.

If you know what you’re doing, steel buildings are the most affordable and best option for most construction projects. If you’re not sure whether you can manage the construction yourself, there are many contractors who are experienced at erecting metal buildings.