Getting familiar with Pre Engineered or Prefabricated Steel Buildings

By Ken Thomson

Pre- engineered steel buildings go by many names including: Prefabricated Steel Buildings, Pre-Fab Building, Butler Buildings, NoCor Buildings and many more.

They all mean the same thing; a building system that is designed, engineered and fabricated in a factory environment. This includes structural frames and systems, roof systems, wall systems, trims and accessories.

These buildings are usually designed for specific use that determines building height, width, length, loading capacity, energy efficiency and architectural appearance. These building with demanding crane loads, tall caves, large clear spans, and critical interior climate control.

Pre-engineered metal buildings are usually obtained from metal building contractors who highly perused it to the practical applications. Metal buildings are erected by steel erectors that are versed in the assembly of pre-engineered building systems.

Examples of prefabricated steel buildings include: leer inks, sports arena, equestrian arenas, aviation hangars, large manufacturing plants, transportation warehousing, distribution, logistics facilities, agriculture of kind buildings, industrial parks. while simple metal buildings can be assembled by a competent "do-it-yourself" er, the more complex metal buildings would benefit from a general contractor or metal building contractor well versed in the options and solutions for design as well as erection. This contractor would team up with a steel building manufacturer. As a team, the metal building contractor and the steel building manufacturer optimizes a steel building solution that fits the property and the user.

Metal building engineering is coordinated with the architectural and the structural engineers to produce a fully engineered building design.

After the building is manufactured it is shipped to the job site and is received by the metal building erector. The benefits of using a prefabricated steel building are numerous and include rapid erection times, an efficient use of building materials, steel structure that has prime paint.

The construction process is swift if the building doesn't need electrical, plumbing, or accessories. Even if extra features are included, such as custom doors, windows, and facades, the process for erecting metal structures is substantially faster than most types of construction.

Since metal buildings are pre-manufactured laborers don't have to prepare materials on-site. Everything is taken care of ahead of time including welding beam joints, drilling screw holes, and cutting window and door openings. This lessens the time required for assembly and reduces labor costs.

Pre-engineered steel buildings are incredibly durable and last for many years. They can withstand extreme weather conditions and are ideal for practically every region ranging from arctic to tropical.

Certain settings may necessitate exterior walls to be coated with rust-proofing compounds to extend the building's lifespan. Aluminum coatings are often applied to buildings located in regions that experience prolonged rain or snow seasons.

Prefab metal buildings can also have insulation installed to maintain interior temperatures during winter and summer months. The most commonly used insulators are reflective foil and fiberglass.

One consideration when using fiberglass blanket insulation is it must comply with building codes pertaining to steel structures. Most often, regulations require fiberglass insulation with attached vapor retarder facing.

Reflective foil insulation is a good alternative to fiberglass and aids in reducing utility and energy costs. This insulator reflects radiant heat and can be installed in attics, floors, air ducts, and walls.

Furthermore, exterior wall panels overlap one another to seal and protect the building from external conditions. When combined with insulation these structures are sealed tight and weatherproof; providing a comfortable work environment and safeguarding contents.

Prefabricated buildings are non-combustible; making them a top choice for companies that store hazardous chemicals or materials. Furthermore, owners enjoy reduced premiums when insuring the building.

The manner in which prefab buildings are assembled determines structural integrity. Therefore, structures need to be assembled by experienced erectors, such as the Facility Builders and Erectors team.

We've been helping project owners find solutions to their design and build projects since 1993. Our services are tailored to suit each client's needs and objectives. We invite you to learn more about us or get in touch with us to discuss your project needs.