Steel buildings continue to find favor in both residential and commercial construction projects, and not just because they come in convenient, prefabricated, ready-to-build kits. They also offer consumers savings in time and money. Steel buildings are more sustainable than traditional wood-frame structures. But most of all, steel buildings lend themselves to an endless array of customized features and floor plans, allowing you to design a building that is simply perfect for you.
To ensure you get the metal building best suited to your needs, working with a custom build expert like Steel Erection and Maintenance, Inc. is the wisest move. And understanding the custom build process beforehand allows you to become an even more effective member of your design team. Here’s all you need to know about custom build steel buildings.
10 Planning Considerations of Custom Steel Buildings
You’ve decided to go with a custom steel building for your next construction project. Perfect choice! After all, metal buildings can be custom built to accommodate a wide variety of purposes.
But what are the planning considerations you should take into account when choosing your design? The ten most important factors to consider are intended use, size, height, number of windows, doors, floor type, area climate, building color, roof type, and budget.
Size
One of the first things you should consider when planning a custom build steel building is exactly how big will your building be? Things like property size, intended use, and expansion plans for the future can all affect the number of square feet most advisable for your project. Don’t underestimate the square footage you require, or you’ll likely find yourself wishing you had opted for more down the line.
Intended Use
When planning your custom build steel building, you’ll definitely want to think about all the uses your building will have. Is it going to be a residential space? You may want to consider a barndominium. Is it going to be used for office space as well as storage? You may want to add some more square footage. Try to anticipate everything you may need your building to accommodate for you—including growth!
Height
While a large number of steel buildings are considered “low-rise,” measuring to an average height between twelve and twenty feet, there can often be situations where you need some extra “head room.”
For instance, a metal building designed for agricultural purposes may want extra clearance to accommodate certain equipment—like a grain elevator.
Light and Windows
Windows are another design element you must consider when planning a custom build. Will you need more or less light to accommodate your building’s intended purpose? Is adequate ventilation a concern? Remember, too, that you can use properly insulated windows to make your building more energy efficient and save money on utilities.
Doors
What kind of access will your building need? Will you require doors with large clearance to move heavy equipment or inventory in and out? Are your access points conveniently located near parking lots or delivery bays? Don’t forget to consider local building codes in the design process. Planned maximum occupancy, multiple fire exits, and building size all affect door installation requirements.
Floors
You have a number of options available when it comes to the type of floor your custom steel building will have. Form relies heavily on function. For instance, if you are building a horse arena, your floor of choice will likely be dirt. However, if your building has a more commercial intent, such as a coffee shop or restaurant, you may want to consider a more finished style of flooring—anything from concrete to poured resin to waterproof vinyl.
Area Climate
Consumers sometimes overlook certain elements that need consideration in custom steel building design—considerations like area climate. That’s just another reason you want a licensed, experienced, professional custom build company like Steel Erection and Maintenance, Inc. on your team.
We have nearly fifty years of experience in steel building design and erection and are intimately familiar with the climate considerations of the southwest United States and will help ensure you accommodate any challenges in your design.
Color Options
Do you want to stand out? Blend in? Promote your brand? Color is one of the easiest custom build considerations to help make your steel building yours. Use your brand’s colors to create a cohesive image for your customers. Match existing structures on your property. Appeal to various demographics by either going bold or subtle. Try to avoid passing color trends that may not withstand the test of time.
Roof Type and Style
While a roof style can certainly add distinctive character to your custom steel building, it is important to also consider practical requirements, like average snowfall, or whether the custom build is an addition to existing structure. Depending on certain criteria, you may need a specific pitch or even a specific roof type to accommodate your needs.
There are a wide variety of roof types for steel buildings—gable roofs, hip roofs, single slope roofs and more to choose from. Your preferences and requirements will determine the roof type that is best for you.
Budget
The economy of custom steel buildings continues to be one of the most attractive factors urging consumers to choose this type of construction over more traditional construction. Still, knowing your budget going into the planning process can help streamline choices. With the savings in labor costs and reduction in material waste, even consumers on a smaller budget can usually achieve a completed project that they love and meets their requirements.
Work with a Professional Team
There is so much to consider in the custom build planning process, but you needn’t be overwhelmed. Familiarizing yourself with the details and teaming with a professional company like feel Maintenance and Erection, Inc. can help make your plans a reality.
Our team of experienced professionals are happy to work with you through every step of your construction project—from design through construction. Contact us today. We are on hand to service both residential and commercial custom build customers in Kingman, Phoenix, Prescott, Flagstaff, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu City, Maricopa County, Mohave County, Yavapai County, Arizona.