Prefab metal buildings are one of the most durable, versatile, and long-lasting building solutions in the market. Therefore, it is no surprise that many garages and an increasing number of commercial buildings and workshops are made with metal.
Putting together metal building kits requires some knowledge and planning to avoid common critical mistakes. These mistakes can affect the reliability and durability of your prefab steel building or result in cost overruns. Below are some of the common mistakes people make and how you can avoid them.
9 Mistakes to Avoid When Constructing Your Steel Building
Not Getting Prior Approval for Your DIY Metal Buildings
As is the case with any construction, zoning and building regulations are something you want to take very seriously. Since zoning is different in every jurisdiction, you will need to do your due diligence on this. Speaking with your municipality is a great first step. You will also need to know where any buried utility lines are and ensure they are clearly marked. The key here is to ensure that your building meets all relevant regulations and local building codes and that you have all the necessary permits.
Not Selecting the Right Type of Building
When designing and building a metal structure, you need to consider more than just getting the correct size. The building needs to fit its purpose. If you need a workshop, have a clear understanding of the features of a workshop and which features you want. The same applies to a storage building, a garage, and more. Consider things like the number of doors and windows, whether you need insulation or ventilation, where you will place your lighting, and how you will use the structure.
You also want to account for your evolving needs as time goes by. You want to consider what your current needs are and what they will be in the next 5 to 10 years. By designing your building to suit the future, you won’t need to worry about making changes in the years to come.
Inadequate Site Preparation
An adequately prepared site ensures a seamless building experience. To start with, all structures need solid, level ground. Larger structures might require more complex procedures, including soil tests to determine the stability of the ground. You also need to provide sufficient clearance around the foundation for lift equipment and delivery trucks. Being thorough in your site preparation will save you from delays and expensive rectifications during construction and over the life of the building.
Not Having the Correct Measurements for Your Metal Building
Another common mistake that raises steel building prices is over or underestimating the space they need. To avoid this costly error, be clear on the purpose of your metal building, both present and future. Take note of the size of the entrance. Can your tractor or truck fit in it? How many cars do you want to put in the garage? Can you freely open the doors when everything is perfectly stored? Does the size of the windows allow for enough natural light? Consider all these details before deciding on the final dimensions of the building. Our metal building experts will give you the right guidance so that you can make informed decisions.
Pouring the Concrete Too Soon
Prefab metal buildings require foundations that exactly fit the structure. While some people might think that pouring a concrete slab and then purchasing a metal building to fit the slab makes the construction move faster, it exposes you to the previous mistake. It is really putting the cart before the horse. Remember that you must insert the bolts anchoring the building framing to the foundation in precise locations that can only be determined once your design and measurements are nailed down.
Not Following the Instructions & Safety Measures Correctly
Most prefab metal buildings are perfect projects for do-it-yourself enthusiasts. However, lack of care and planning can be dangerous and expensive. All our steel building kits come with comprehensive and systematic instructions that guide you on how to assemble the building properly and safely. Be sure to follow all the safety procedures in the manual to protect the builders and the building.
Altering DIY Steel Buildings in the Field
Prefab metal buildings are precisely designed, engineered, and fabricated to meet specific objectives. Regardless of how experienced you are in construction, resist the urge to alter any part of the structure. If a joint does not seem to fit as it should, refer to the manual. If that does not fix the problem, you can reach out to our experts.
Installing Screws Incorrectly
This is probably one of the most overlooked steel building mistakes. Properly installed, high-grade metal building screws are meant to create a watertight, problem-free structure. If any of the screws are over or under tightened, it could lead to annoying and expensive leaks. Ideally, the screw should be driven until the washer extends beyond the screw head. You can tell an underdriven screw as the edges of the washer remain completely beneath the screw head. On the other hand, an over-driven screw will squish the washer too flat.
Unclear Communication about Your Metal Building
Unclear communication results in unmet expectations, which can be the cause of many problems during any construction. The reason might be that something was not understood or never discussed. Another cause of miscommunication might be that something was not clear in the initial steel building design. It is important to clearly articulate your vision to our experts, including details such as dimensions, size, and location of doors and windows. Our specialists will also use their expertise and experience to suggest alterations and modifications that actualize your vision.
Get the Perfect Prefab Steel Building for Your Needs
Building prefab steel structures can be simple and straightforward, but you need to follow all the instructions very carefully. Otherwise, you might end up making the common mistakes listed above. At Toro, our experienced metal building specialists will help you design the perfect structure for your needs and is suited to your use and location. Get in touch with us today for more information or to get a free estimate.
