Tips for Maintaining Steel Buildings After Construction

Steel buildings need very little maintenance to keep them in top shape, but they do require some preventative care. If you keep up with routine inspections and make small repairs when needed, you’ll extend the life of your metal building further and avoid the need for major repairs further down the line.
Do Regular Maintenance Checks
Establish a maintenance schedule that includes regular inspection tours to look for scratches, worn spots, dents or any other small damages that compromise the protective coating on your metal building. You should perform these checks twice a year, as well as after extreme weather, renovations and any incident that might compromise the building’s structure. It’s a good idea to keep records of your inspections and any maintenance done for your own records and insurance records. If your building is a commercial one, you may need to keep the information for government safety regulations.
Make Minor Repairs Immediately
Quality steel buildings are usually powder-coated with an anti-corrosive coating that protects the metal from rust and other types of corrosion. Even the smallest holes, scratches or dents offer a way in for damaging moisture. Fill any holes or dents you find. Light sanding, primer and paint will repair scratches and prevent moisture from causing further damage.
Protect Your Building from the Weather
The biggest danger to steel buildings is the weather, particularly rain and snow. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause corrosion and rust. Excess weight can damage building panels and even cause shifts in the foundation. Certain shapes, such as the Quonset buildings and arch frame buildings that are popular as garages, storage buildings and barns, naturally shed snow and heavy rain from the top of your building, but the sides and the foundation of your building are still exposed, especially if snow builds up or rain puddles around the base. Gutters and downspouts will direct water away from the walls and foundation. Awnings or overhangs can help keep snow away from the foundation.
Wash Steel Buildings Every Year
While the anti-corrosive coating on steel buildings will prevent rust and most chemical corrosion, the metal is still prone to biological contaminants – which is a fancy way of saying that fungus and mildew can take root on dirt and debris left on your building. Once a year, give your metal building a good bath with a gentle household cleaner and soft-bristled brush or low-powered pressure washer. It will keep your building looking clean and new for years.