A prefabricated metal building kit is the perfect solution if you need additional workspace. However, there are several key elements to consider before you begin. First, the layout of the space is essential. You want to ensure that the work area is organized and efficient so that you can get things done quickly.
Additionally, you’ll need to consider how much space you will need, the type of equipment and materials you plan to have in your workshop, what kind of tools and workbenches you require, and more. All of these factors are important to ensure you build a workshop that suits your needs for the long term.
How to Successfully Plan and Build Your Metal Workshop
The Building
Before buying a building kit to construct your steel shop, you need to check your local regulations. In some areas, buildings cannot exceed a certain height or size, which may limit your options. Double-check and be sure to get the permits you need before proceeding.
Power
A workshop is going to need a power supply. Electrical outlets must also be installed and tested, as well as switches and breakers for lights and other electrical equipment. Supplying your workshop with power won’t be a do-it-yourself job, so you’ll need to hire a qualified electrician who can safely install all the necessary wiring and safety features.
Security
Odds are you’ll be storing expensive tools and equipment in your workshop, which means you’ll want to take extra precautions to secure them. It’s important to consider the type of locks you’ll need to keep your belongings safe, and if necessary, you may also want to look into an alarm system.
Consider installing motion-sensor lights around the exterior of your workshop as well, which will help deter potential thieves.
Plan Your Work Area
The layout of your workshop is the most important factor in determining its efficiency, so you’ll want to plan this out carefully. Consider the best place for your workbench, tools, and equipment. You’ll also want to ensure easy access to electrical outlets and enough space for a comfortable working environment.
Remember that the more organized and efficient your workspace is, the more productive you’ll be.
Storage
Organizing and storing your tools, materials, and equipment is essential for keeping your workshop efficient. A lack of storage can be enormously detrimental. Not only will your workspace become cluttered, making it difficult to find what you need, but it could also create a safety hazard.
Consider the available space and how much storage you’ll need, then choose the appropriate cabinets, shelves, and drawers to meet those needs. Be sure to use your wall space as well with wall-mounted panels, hooks, and pegboards.
Keep It Safe
Safety should always be your top priority in the workshop. You’ll want to ensure that the space is well-lit and organized, as well as clean and free from potential hazards. Ensure the workspace is properly ventilated and that any hazardous chemicals will be properly stored. Have a fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit stored inside for easy emergency access.
Six Ideas for Your Metal Shop Building
Metal buildings are ideal for workshops because of their versatility. The following are six examples of how you can customize your metal building to improve your workshop space:
- Creating Partitions: Although your metal building can function as an open space, you may want to create different work zones that are separated from one another. For example, you may choose to have a separate welding area, painting booth, and machine shop. You may even want to create a waiting room or a bathroom. You can separate these areas by creating partitions with interior framing and drywall.
- Finish Your Interior Walls: Metal walls can make your workspace feel a little cold. As such, you might want to consider finishing them to create a more inviting and comfortable atmosphere. For example, you could use drywall, wainscot, or even wood planks to give your workshop a more polished and finished look. Doing so will also allow you to add insulation to your walls, which can help keep your workshop more comfortable in the winter and reduce energy costs.
- Add a Car Repair Lift: If you plan to use your workshop for car repairs, whether you’re a professional mechanic or a hobbyist, you’ll probably want to add a car repair lift. This will make it much easier to work on the underside of a vehicle and will also help maximize your workspace. Adding a car lift will essentially turn your workspace into a functional repair garage.
- Climate Control for Your Metal Shop Building: Depending on where you live, the temperature in your workshop may fluctuate drastically throughout the year. To keep it comfortable and reduce energy costs, you might want to consider adding some form of climate control, such as insulation and an HVAC system.
- Add Overhead Fans or Extractors: If you’re working on projects that require heat or lots of dust, like woodworking or welding, you might want to add an overhead fan or dust extraction system to help keep your workspace clean and well-ventilated. Doing so will also reduce the fire risk, making it a safer space. It will also help maintain indoor air quality so that you can breathe clean air while working.
- Heat Your Metal Shop Building: If you are working throughout the winter months, you may want to consider adding a heat source. Adding an HVAC system is the most energy-efficient way to heat your workshop, but you could also use electric space heaters or even a wood stove. Not only will this make your workshop more comfortable, but it will also help ensure that the tools and materials you’re working with don’t become too cold.
We Offer Custom Steel Shop Buildings at Great Prices
At Toro Steel Buildings, we offer a wide range of prefabricated metal building kits for a variety of purposes, including workshops. Our steel workshop buildings can be customized to meet your specific needs and are available at affordable prices. For information about our steel shop buildings or to request a free estimate, be sure to contact us at Toro Steel Buildings online or by calling us at 1-877-870-8676 today.
