Is Your Steel Building Strong Enough For Where You Live?

Posted on June 13, 2014

A map showing the major wind zones in the United StatesWhen you’re getting ready to construct a new building, one of the primary things you should concentrate on is the structural integrity of the building material you choose. You want to ensure your building can withstand weather of all types, including very strong winds.

Based on where in the country you’re building, there are various wind ratings to contend with. There is a concentration of extremely high wind zones in the midwestern region of the country, based on the destructive winds that can often come sweeping through the plains. Many of these states are subject to tornadoes as well. And according to FEMA, even in parts of the county where there are significantly lower chances of high winds, there are “special wind regions” that can experience strong winds. These strong winds often accompany tropical storms, and, of course, unpredictable weather along the coasts can lead to unpredictable wind speed. The southern and eastern coasts in particular are also hurricane-prone areas, at regular risk of experiencing hurricane-force winds throughout hurricane season.

No matter what area of the country you are in, Worldwide Steel Buildings have proven time and time again to withstand not just the test of time, but the tests of winds and weather as well. Our buildings are set to the highest standards for wind loads (and snow loads) and have proven to sustain minimal, if any, wind damage in the most severe conditions, as long as they have been properly maintained.

And the weatherproofing benefits of high-quality metal buildings go beyond wind: They are also fire-resistant and, properly sealed and finished, hold up well to heavy rain.

Steel is a cost-effective and very strong material that is well suited for all types of extreme weather. In areas where such weather is more common, the building design you choose for your steel structure can further protect.

We offer several designs of building kits that you can consider, based on your location and the wind and weather conditions that may come your way.

  • Rigid frame – This frame is also referred to as an “I‐beam” or the “red iron” and rigid frame buildings are typically built for commercial or industrial use. This frame can be great for any type of condition, but you’ll want to consider the type of shallow roof zoning required for your area first.
  • Open Web truss –This type of building has a higher roof pitch than the rigid frame and is often used in residential areas. With an extremely heavy weight, these have incredible strength in any condition that almost no other building can beat.
  • Quonset Hut – These are commonly called “arch buildings” because of their curved nature. They were once used primarily for military purposes but are now used often in agriculture and farming. These buildings tend to be open and only used as a basic covering or shelter. Enclosing and insulating them can be inconvenient and costly. These are better used in areas that do not have high wind or snow load requirements.

A wind resistant metal building designed and built by Worldwide Steel BuildingsWorldwide Steel constructs our buildings unlike any other steel buildings with a strong and solid frame that beats the design and standards of our competition. In fact, our strongest buildings have 4-5 times the strength against wind compared to most other steel buildings. The buildings are designed to beat Mother Nature and withstand the worst of weather.

Before choosing your building, be sure to consider your needs, weather conditions, and zoning and building codes in your area to avoid any unforeseen issues.

Ready to get started on your metal building? Give us a call at (800) 825-0316 to begin the conversation, learn more about our industry-leading 50-year structural warranty, or get a quote on the project you have in mind. Our team looks forward to working with you.

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