Category Archives: Man Caves
Spark Your Imagination
Get a clearer picture of the steel building in your future with a little help from the satisfied customers of Worldwide Steel Buildings. Now available on our website are design examples created by our customers (with our popular 3D Building Design Tool) that served as the springboard for the steel building of their dreams.
You’ll feel inspired to take your design to the next level by viewing the plans of others whether you’re thinking of building a garage, workshop, house, barndominium or commercial building. Worldwide Steel Buildings hopes to help people get over the design hump by simply sharing the work of others.
“Sometimes it just takes a little spark to the imagination to complete a building design,” says Jeff Snell, president and CEO of Worldwide Steel Buildings. “And what’s great about our 3D design tool is that it provides a clear vision of the buildings that’s swirling inside the heads of our customers.”
So take a look-see at the other building designs today to get inspired for tomorrow. Go to https://www.worldwidesteelbuildings.com/design-examples/.
Try out the free Worldwide Steel Buildings 3D Building Designer Tool.
Steel Building Exterior Finishes That Add Character and Value
We love the look of our steel buildings, and we want to make sure our customers do, too. Our sheet metal siding comes in a wide range of colors which you can “try before you buy” using our 3-D Building Design Tool.
But a steel building doesn’t have to look like a steel building if you don’t want it to. Our customers have the benefit and flexibility of using a range of other exterior options if sheet metal isn’t their preference.
Between siding options and exterior finishes in a variety of colors, your metal building can be designed to resemble traditional construction … without losing all the benefits that come along with choosing a steel frame structure.
Aesthetics That Match Your Vision
Having the flexibility to choose the look of your exterior walls can be particularly important when trying to match a look that may already exist on your property – or matching a new steel frame house to the surrounding neighborhood.
Worldwide Steel Buildings’ team has worked with many of our customers to design steel structures using a range of exterior finishes beyond metal wall panels, including brick, stone, stucco, and even wood siding.
Brick exterior
Bricks are one of the oldest building materials, having been used as far back as 7,000 BC. Brick is a durable and fire-resistant exterior finish option that provides a high-end, classic look with lots of curb appeal. Brick veneer is a good choice for a single family home, detached garage, or small business.
Stone siding
Stone (or faux stone like GenStone) provides a unique, organic appeal to single-family homes and certain commercial buildings. It is more durable and lower-maintenance than wood, and natural stone is likely to outlast most everything built today. Stone can camouflage the appearance of prefab metal buildings almost entirely.
Stucco
Traditional stucco is a very popular finish option especially in warmer climates thanks to its light-colored natural appearance. If you want your metal building project to gain even more energy efficiency and durability (stucco is resistant to fire, mold, rot and infestation, just like steel), consider stucco. Because the material now comes in pre-cut stucco panels, adding a stucco finish can be an easy way to enhance the appearance of your home, commercial building or recreational building.
Wood siding
Customers who want all the benefits of a custom metal building as well as the appeal of traditional construction often choose wood siding as a finish option. Wood offers a lot of variety in format (between shiplap, shake, shingle, tongue and groove and more) and customization (because it’s so easy to paint and repaint). Wood siding is also a comparably inexpensive and accessible finish option, and using it on a steel building kit negates some of its drawbacks (like a lack of insulation).
Strength You Can Depend On
Whatever exterior finishes you choose, you still get the strength and durability of our steel truss framing, backed by our unmatched 50-year guarantee. You also get the other benefits of our steel building kits, including full customization, clear interior spans giving you flexibility of interior layout, affordability, and ease of assembly.
Need some inspiration to get started on your project? Look at photos on the “Steel Buildings” tab, check out our 3-D Design Tool, or talk with a Building Consultant specialist to create a structure with the perfect look for your needs.
For more information about metal building kits contact us, or start designing your building with our online 3D Building Designer Tool by clicking the image below.
Beat the Heat: AC Units for Metal Building
Choosing the right air conditioning (AC) unit for a metal building is a critical decision for year-round comfort and efficiency. Metal buildings, known for their durability and versatility, have unique climate control needs due to their construction material. While the hot summer months might prompt the immediate need for cooling solutions, it’s essential to consider the broader picture. The changing seasons bring varying temperature extremes, from scorching summer heat to chilly winter days.
This necessity for a versatile climate control solution is especially relevant for steel buildings, where internal temperatures can fluctuate due to external weather conditions. Modern metal building kits offer the flexibility to customize HVAC systems to meet these diverse demands. A robust system that not only cools in the summer but also provides warmth during the colder months is vital.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the factors to consider when selecting an air conditioning unit for your metal structure. Whether it’s a sweltering summer day or a brisk winter evening, ensuring your metal building is equipped with the right HVAC system is key to maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient environment year-round. Let’s explore how to achieve this balance, ensuring your space is a comfortable haven in any season.
Flexibility to Incorporate Building Systems
Whether you want to air condition the office space within a hybrid warehouse/office structure, or provide climate control for your entire garage, workshop, or single-family steel home, you can plan and lay out your own HVAC (as well as power and other systems) for part or all of your building kit. Need a little help determining what your building needs? Our experienced customer service team can work with you to understand your HVAC and systems needs and customize your building kit to achieve them, with maximum energy efficiency in mind.
Design Elements to Help You Keep Your Cool
While a central HVAC heating system and cooling system is the primary means of keeping things cool in the warm weather (and vice versa), some of the most basic design elements can also be used to help manage climate and air circulation in your steel building:
- Doorways/openings: With clear span buildings 24-225 feet, our steel building kits allow for large garage door openings on multiple sides of the building to provide cross-ventilation. This is most often a consideration when designing the exterior walls of commercial buildings.
- Windows: Another obvious, but important element: Worldwide Steel Buildings’ clear span designs also allow you to place windows to maximize (or minimize) natural light and ventilation based on your specific building site. Homeowners in particular should consider the climate aspects of their prefab steel building kits. When the weather is pleasant, don’t underestimate the power of opening those windows to circulate some fresh air!
- Ceilings/roofs: The open design of our building kits means you can customize the ceiling height and roof pitch to allow heat to rise to the top of your building, vent out of your building and away from your belongings, equipment – and from you. Our building kits also allow ductwork to distribute warm and cool air throughout every square foot of your building.
- Insulation: While much of the energy-efficient climate control is inherent to the properties and design of your steel building, insulation systems make a major impact, too. Whether you opt for loose-fill, blown-in, batt and roll, reflective insulation, radiant barriers or spray foam, your building can accommodate it.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an AC Unit
Insulation and Sealing Requirements for Metal Buildings
Your metal building needs proper insulation to maintain a comfortable temperature. Insulation is measured in R-value; the higher the R-value, the better the insulation. Also, sealing any gaps, especially around garage doors and eaves, is crucial to prevent hot air from entering and cold air from escaping.
Sizing and Capacity Considerations
Selecting the right size AC unit, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), is vital for your steel building. An oversized unit can cause humidity issues, while an undersized one will struggle to cool the space efficiently. Consider the square feet of your metal structure when determining the right size.
Energy Efficiency Requirements
Energy efficiency not only reduces energy bills but also lessens the environmental impact. Look for AC units with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the unit is.
Environmental Considerations
Consider the climate of your location. In hot areas like Texas and Florida, a more robust system may be necessary. Conversely, in cooler climates, a less powerful unit might suffice.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Guidelines for Installation
Proper installation is crucial. For DIY enthusiasts, installing a window unit or mini split may be feasible. However, for more complex systems like a split system or heat pump, professional installation is recommended, especially for commercial buildings.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance, like cleaning filters and checking for leaks, ensures optimal performance and longevity. In metal garages, ensure adequate airflow to prevent warm air buildup.
Stay Comfortable in a Worldwide Steel Building
Selecting the right AC unit for your metal building involves considering factors like insulation, size, energy efficiency, and environmental factors. Whether it’s a mini split for your shop or a full HVAC system for a large steel building kit, understanding your building’s needs is key. Remember to factor in ongoing maintenance to keep your air conditioning system running smoothly, and consider adding supplementary elements like ceiling fans and awnings for additional climate control. With the right approach, you can enjoy a comfortable, energy-efficient space in your metal building.
For more information about the benefits of Worldwide Steel metal building kits, contact us today. You can also start designing your building with our online 3D Building Designer Tool!
[Infographic] Steel Building Kits: A Solution to Your Crowded Garage Shop
Have you been dreaming of building your own workshop or garage? Well, what’s stopping you?! Whether it’s time, money, or you simply haven’t found what you’re looking for, the experts at Worldwide Steel Buildings are determined to help you find a solution.
Check out the infographic below and see just how easy it can be to get out of your cluttered garage and into your dream workspace with a DIY steel building kit from Worldwide Steel Buildings.
Want to try it before you buy it? Click the button below and take advantage of our FREE 3D Building Designer!
8 Awesome Upgrades for the Ultimate Man Cave
Have you always wanted your own man cave, but haven’t quite been able to turn it from idea to reality? Good news: there are more ways than ever to design and build your ultimate man cave — for less time and less money than you probably have in mind.
First things first: what — and where — exactly is a man cave? It might just be your home’s basement, outfitted with a pool table or foosball table, a dart board, and some jerseys and other sports memorabilia hung on the walls. But we think that’s a little boring. Think bigger!
We’re huge proponents of a man cave that isn’t inside your home. It should feel like a mini getaway every time you’re inside. Even a detached garage or small building across the yard can give you much-needed physical and mental space from your everyday life.
Men around the country have purchased Worldwide Steel Buildings metal garage kits and turned them into some truly awesome spaces that make their friends and neighbors jealous. You can choose the size, building elements (including windows and door styles, which could make or break some of these man cave ideas) and finishes to fit what you’re looking for. Our steel frame building kits are so easy to put together, even a first-timer can do it DIY-style. From there, it all comes down to interior design. We don’t just mean which paint color you choose and where you put the recliner. We mean those inspirational elements that a man cave is built around.
We’ve got some inspiration to get you back on track! Check out these ten must-have features for the upgraded ultimate man cave.
1. The Boys Need a Bar
You’re better than a lone mini-fridge. Every man cave should come equipped with a home bar — a wet bar, more specifically. Slide in a counter, add a few comfy stools, and stock it with all the best craft beers and cocktail fixings. If you’re going to do it big, this is definitely one feature you’ll need to include!
2. High-Tech Keg
Gone are the college frat days of the aluminum keg in a trash can full of ice. Grownups have a sleek kegerator on wheels with a professional tap on top. Click here to explore all the high-tech options!
3. Upcycled Welding Bench
Maybe your man cave is less about relaxing horizontally and more about pursuing your passions. That’s awesome. Create a workshop outfitted with the tools, whether that’s woodworking or welding equipment.
Your personal workshop should be more than functional. It should make a personal statement about the kind of craftsman you are. Check this out: an airplane hobbyist channels his inner pilot with an upcycled airplane lift outfitted as a welding bench!
4. Submerged Lift
Keeping with the hobbyist theme here: You may love to restore a classic automobile from time to time, that’s not always what’s on the menu in your man cave. Install a submerged hydraulic lift and keep your floor space open in between projects. So much room for activities!
Psst – if you’re occasionally using your man cave for something as large as a vehicle, you’ll need to incorporate doors large enough to accommodate it when you’re still in the design stages.
5. The Real Deal Home Theater
Sure, you may have a huge flat screen television with the latest gaming system hooked up and streaming services, but do you have a projector that re-creates the theater experience? How about state-of-the-art surround sound? One master remote control to rule them all? The go-big-or-go-home mentality definitely applies in this situation!
6. An Elevated Game Room
Of course your home theater supports your video game hobby, in almost life-sized fashion. But for the true gamer, that’s just the beginning. Want this space to turn into the go-to hangout zone for your friends and neighbors? Hunt down some vintage arcade games and watch everyone get re-addicted to the classics you grew up with.
In the mood for something a little more physical? Make some room to move while you’re wearing a VR headset, or invest in a golf simulator and perfect your swing from your own man cave.
7. Personal Climbing Wall
Why stop at a weight bench and a treadmill? When you’re designing your own building to spec for everything your man cave needs, the sky’s the limit. If you’ve got a larger-than-life space that needs filling, get your own indoor climbing wall! Skip the bench press and go vertical.
8. Secure the Goods
Upgrade entry security to “Fort Knox” level with an entry door facade that imitates a bank vault. If that’s too over the top for your taste, at least lock up your space with a remote locking system. That way you can play gatekeeper from anywhere! And make sure to add a wifi-enabled security camera for the high-tech gadgets and equipment that will doubtless fill your man cave.
Ready to learn more about what goes into crafting your perfect man cave, or get started on designing and building your man cave? Contact the experts at Worldwide Steel at (800) 825-0316 for more information on how we can make your man cave a reality with our steel building kits!
Insider Tips on How to Budget for Your Worldwide Steel Building
Let’s face it. No matter what form your building takes–whether it’s a simple backyard shed or a spacious machine shop–paying for it will require some planning. If you’re attracted to the value of a high-quality steel building, but worry that you’ll have to pay a hefty premium for it, we have some good news!
Customers frequently discover that working with a Worldwide Steel Building Kit is substantially more budget-friendly than they thought. Here are a few reasons why:
Lower Installation Costs
This is perhaps the biggest advantage of our do-it-yourself building solutions. Most quality steel buildings are specialty projects constructed on-site, using hired labor and heavy equipment that can rapidly grow your total cost by several thousand dollars. Many do-it-yourselfers are intimidated by the prospect of erecting a steel building, but our easy-to-assemble steel building kits make the process so simple that any property owner with access to these tools can do it.
Because our parts are prefabricated in easy-to-handle units that are simply bolted together on-site, no welding is necessary, and the only heavy equipment you might need is a power lift–which, thanks to the ease of assembly, you’ll only have to rent for a day or two instead of weeks at a time. So the money you save on labor and equipment can go toward what really matters: higher quality building materials and getting the building you’ve always dreamed of.
Built to Last with No Hidden Maintenance
Many property owners fail to consider the maintenance costs that will sneak up on them over the life of your average building, and that’s a big mistake. What many forget is that wood buildings require continual monitoring and periodic treatment for wood-destroying insects, moisture penetration, and basic rot and decay.
Composite roofing requires replacement every ten years, and paint jobs fade even sooner. Worse, an inadvertent lapse in maintenance or an undetected infestation of termites can lead to structural problems, requiring costly major repairs.
By contrast, our steel buildings are impervious to water, require no treatment for insects, and come with pre-painted sheet metal boasting a 40-year warranty–and that’s on top of our industry-leading 50-year structural warranty on all prefabricated trusses. Your return on investment (ROI) is substantially higher with steel because you’ll enjoy a much longer use of your building, and the premium you pay for superior materials will likely be more than offset by the amount you save in long-term maintenance.
Related Read: Why Tornado Alley Chooses Worldwide Steel Buildings
Special Financing Options
Our customers are shrewd bargain-hunters, and we respect that. That’s why we keep our prices competitive and regularly offer special pricing deals and discounts that can help you kick-start a project at an even better value. We’re also proud to offer affordable in-house financing with low fixed rates for well-qualified customers. Our partnership with Lightstream means you may be eligible to borrow as little as $5,000 or as much as $100,000 through a paperless application process, with no fees, no down payment, and no collateral requirements.
If you’re ready to invest in a high-quality, made-for-a-lifetime steel building, then now is the time to act. Give us a call at (800) 825-0316 for help selecting a package that is just right for your budget. Our guys will gladly lead you toward making your dream a reality–for less than you might think.
Top 10 Dream Garage Ideas
Imagine transforming your garage space from a basic storage area into a stunning showpiece of your home. For many homeowners, the garage is simply a spot to park cars and store items, but it holds the potential to be so much more. Our Top 10 Dream Garage Ideas guide is here to spark your imagination and guide you through this exciting transformation.
What if your garage could reflect your unique style and interests? Think beyond a standard garage remodel. With Worldwide Steel Buildings, creating a luxury garage that goes beyond the ordinary is within reach. Whether you’re an enthusiast with a prized car collection or someone who appreciates the practicality of a car lift, our design ideas are tailored to meet your specific desires.
These dream garage ideas aren’t just about organizing space; they’re about reinventing it. Each concept is a step towards turning your garage into a multifunctional area. From aesthetic improvements to functional upgrades, every element contributes to realizing your dream garage.
As you explore these top 10 features, envision how they can elevate your garage remodel. This is your opportunity to transform a conventional garage into an extension of your home, perfectly suited to both homeowners and their passions.
1. Add Windows
Is your current garage dark, dreary, and depressing? Let the light in with a few windows. Adding windows, garage doors or skylights will make your home garage look custom and will offer awesome natural lighting.
2. Fix Up Your Flooring
A concrete floor may seem like the easy choice, but why not amp it up a bit with an epoxy floor? Adding an epoxy coating to your garage floor is an easy way to turn boring concrete into a work of art. These days, a floor coating is also durable, so you don’t need to worry about messing it up if you drop something heavy.
3. Wash Off with a Sink
What happens in the garage should stay in the garage! If you’re constantly tracking grease and grime into your living space, adding a sink with some garage cabinets underneath (to store soap and paper towels) can help contain the mess. The ability to wash up where you work will not only keep your garage interior a cleaner space, but your home as well.
4. Stock Up On Storage
The garage is the top place for clutter to accumulate, but the right garage storage can help. Take a look at an unused garage wall and measure it for built-in cabinetry, overhead storage, shelves, and hooks. See if you can add to this storage system with a freestanding storage unit for bulkier items. You’ll be impressed by how much better your storage space gets and how easily you can reach the things you use often, all while getting rid of the messy, piled-up junk.
5. Power Up with Electricity
If you’re not wired for electricity, you’re wasting tons of potential in your space. Most of the tools used for woodworking, fixing up classic cars, and generally facilitating a garage workshop need electricity. Add outlets in convenient spaces to expand the opportunity for future electrical needs. Not to mention, without electricity, you can’t have these awesome features below…
6. Turn It Up with Audio/Sound
Who says the garage can’t double as a man cave? Install a sound system and flat-screen television. Enjoy the big game with the boys, fix up your dream car, and make DIY jobs a breeze by streaming instructional videos, right in your workshop.
7. Lock It Down with Security
You’ve invested in some really cool stuff. Make sure you protect it! Don’t forget to incorporate a security system and install security sensors on your new garage doors and windows. If you want to further control who has the keys to your castle, consider adding a keypad lock to your door with your own personalized security code.
8. Workbench
A functional workbench is essential for any DIY enthusiast’s garage. It’s not just a workspace; it’s where your creative projects come to life. Strategically placing this workbench near your storage solution ensures tools are always within reach, enhancing both efficiency and organization. This setup transforms your garage into an inspiring workspace, perfect for any DIY project.
9. Lighting
Windows may improve natural lighting conditions, but some special projects (or those that keep your attention long after the sun has gone down) require special lighting. Add high-quality LED lighting overhead, and dimmers for more lighting options.
10. Keep Your Cool
Working on a project, or having your buddies over to enjoy your new digs, means you will need refreshments. Forget about trips back and forth to the kitchen! Install a refrigerator and keep your cold drinks right where they belong.
From Plans to Perfection: Finalizing Your Dream Garage Design
The journey to your dream garage makeover begins with a vision and a plan. Whether you’re starting with a basic one-car garage or expanding to accommodate a larger vision, your garage plans are the blueprint for transformation. Each feature we’ve discussed is a stepping stone toward creating a space that’s not only functional but also a reflection of your personal style and needs.
Remember, a garage makeover is more than just a renovation project; it’s an opportunity to enhance your lifestyle. From sleek design elements to practical upgrades, every change contributes to the overall feel and functionality of your garage.
Take these ideas, refine them to fit your unique requirements, and embark on the exciting journey of turning your ordinary garage into the space you’ve always imagined. Your dream garage is not just a concept—it’s a possibility waiting to be realized.
When you work with Worldwide Steel Buildings, the custom garage of your dreams is closer than it seems. Call us today for more information (800) 825-0316 or contact us online. We’ll help you find the best steel building kit to meet all of your dream garage needs.
Want to try it before you buy it? Click here and try out our free 3D Building Designer!