The Truth About Steel Building Durability
When you look at an old home, the design and architecture are probably the first things that jump out at you. The intricate detailing and now-quirky components are often beautiful, sometimes strange and occasionally just baffling. But sure enough, the durability and lifespan of the property are always what we find most impressive. After all, if the structural integrity of the building wasn’t there, the beautiful details would have disappeared decades ago. It’s the historic construction and solid building material that allows these buildings to stand the test of time.
You’ve heard people say “They don’t make them like they used to,” I bet. Changes in our economy, technology, priorities and culture have led to definite differences (read: low-quality workmanship and cheap construction materials) in many of today’s mass-produced buildings. And it’s sad but true. Traditional construction today compared to traditional construction 100 years ago is certainly lacking. Is it still possible to erect a beautiful, thoughtful wood building today? Absolutely. But it won’t be quick and it definitely won’t be cost-effective. But don’t give up! There are new building techniques and building designs available that are always durable (even backed by a one-of-a-kind warranty that guarantees them to stand strong for 50 years, even when put up against harsh working conditions and extreme weather) and attractive, and are also quick to build, cost-effective and low-maintenance.
We are speaking, of course, of metal and steel buildings. Unfortunately, some people are wary of the durability and strength of steel structures, primarily due to their ease of construction and low cost. They assume that because steel framing can be erected quickly and relatively inexpensively, it’s likely to fail just as quickly. But the exact opposite is true — metal structures give you the best of all worlds. You get the strength of steel combined with the value and ease of prefab, precision-fit framing systems.
Steel buildings are made of the strongest metals on earth, and are designed in a way that allows the building to stand up to absolutely anything you could throw its way: they’re fire resistant, impermeable to termites and other pests, not prone to corrosion or water damage, dependable in the face of high winds and natural disasters, and provide excellent energy efficiency. When all these benefits combine, they add up to a building that can last just as long as the antique homes we admire today.
At Worldwide Steel, we’re strong, vocal proponents of this and many, many other benefits of steel buildings. And why wouldn’t we be? The more proof of quality you have, the more confident you can be. Seeing these buildings in action is enough to calm any nerves. This is why our steel and metal building kits come with a 50-year structural warranty directly from the manufacturer. It is our promise that your building will be designed and manufactured to meet your specific building codes and withstand the test of age, whatever that may include.
Metal buildings also offer better sustainability than wood framing materials (yep, really!) and unmatched versatility, perfect for everything from outdoor storage to residential homes. Steel buildings are ideal for all sorts of needs, from barns and stables to garages, workshops and commercial buildings. The steel buildings are available in a wide variety of sizes and designs, functioning as commercial and residential properties just as easily as an airplane hangar.
Whatever building projects you’re considering, a metal or steel building kit can meet your purposes and meet them well. When you opt for a metal building, you know you are finding a budget-friendly solution to your building needs—one that will last a lifetime without issue.
For more information about Worldwide Steel building systems, construction processes and midwest-manufactured materials, give us a call at (800) 825-0316 or request a quote online.
Heavy Snow Loads and Steel Buildings
When it comes to constructing steel buildings, understanding and planning for heavy snow load is imperative, particularly in regions known for significant snowfall. The term “heavy snow load” refers to the weight of snow and its impact on buildings, which can vary depending on the type and amount of snow, as well as the structure’s design. Worldwide Steel Buildings recognizes the critical nature of this issue and prioritizes the design of metal buildings that can confidently withstand these challenging conditions. This blog delves into the importance of considering heavy snow load in the construction and maintenance of steel structures. We will explore the potential effects of snow accumulation on steel buildings, key design considerations to ensure structural integrity, best practices for maintenance, and the importance of adhering to building codes. Worldwide Steel Buildings is committed to delivering steel structures – from metal garages to large-scale storage buildings – that meet and exceed the demands of heavy snow load environments.
What Snow Means For Your Building Needs
Heavy snow loads can pose serious risks to steel structures. The weight of snow accumulation, especially during blizzards or heavy snowfall, can lead to potential structural damage. This includes stress on trusses, eaves, and the building roof. Safety concerns for occupants cannot be overstated, as the risk of collapse or damage increases under heavy snow load. Additionally, the economic impacts due to damage or downtime can be significant, especially in commercial storage buildings or steel garages.
The good news is that steel and metal buildings from Worldwide Steel are built with what it takes to handle the heavy and harsh snow pile-ups required in each area of the country. In fact, it is found that metal and steel buildings may actually be better suited to handling higher snow loads than traditionally framed homes.
Key Considerations for Designing Steel Buildings in Heavy Snow Load Areas
In designing buildings for areas prone to heavy snowfall, Worldwide Steel Buildings considers several key factors. Structural reinforcement is a crucial aspect, including the use of sturdy trusses and robust building kits. Roof design, particularly the pitch, plays a significant role; a steeper roof pitch can help reduce snow buildup, enhancing the building’s ability to shed snow. Professional engineering evaluations are essential to ensure compliance with building codes, considering factors like ground snow load, wind load, and roof snow load.
Best Practices for Maintaining Steel Buildings in Heavy Snow Load Areas
Proper maintenance is essential for steel buildings in heavy snow load areas. Effective snow removal strategies and the use of specialized equipment can prevent issues like ice dams and excessive snow accumulation. Regular inspections are important for identifying and addressing damage or wear, especially after the winter season. Proactive maintenance, backed by the comprehensive warranty offered by Worldwide Steel Buildings, is vital for ensuring the longevity and safety of metal structures, including garages, carports, and larger buildings.
Conclusion
Snow is the heaviest and most dangerous when it is compacted. If you live in a climate where compacted snow could develop, then it is important to take weather precautions under consideration when building your structure. Compacted snow is heavy due to the layers of ice that form in between the layers of snow. Be educated about the weather risks in your area and know what you need your building to stand up against when making your choice of materials. Steel and metal buildings can be used for garages, workshops, and residential and commercial needs, and are easily insulated to make the inside just as comfortable as the outside is sturdy.
Recognizing the importance of heavy snow load considerations in the design and maintenance of steel buildings is crucial. Worldwide Steel Buildings is dedicated to providing structures that are not only capable of withstanding the challenges of heavy snowfall but are also designed with safety, longevity, and efficiency in mind. We invite potential clients to consult with our team of building specialists and experts to benefit from our extensive experience in creating durable, reliable steel buildings for various needs and environments.
Are you planning a new building project in an area with heavy snowfall? Don’t let the winter weather catch you off guard. Contact Worldwide Steel Buildings now to discuss your project needs. Our team of building experts and specialists are ready to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your structure is perfectly suited to withstand heavy snow loads. When the snow does fall, you want to rest assured that you have the strongest building design in the business. From small garages to massive work equipment sheds, you can get the confidence you need that you have a solid building that will stand up no matter the weather.
Is Your Steel Building Strong Enough For Where You Live?
When 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.
Worldwide 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.