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Life is about decisions. Make the wrong or right decision and you’ll face the consequences. The same can be said of the building process. You’ll make decisions, some of which you’ll be responsible for, and others will come with the territory. The decisions you’re responsible for start with the basic ones, like, “should I build with steel or traditional timber?” and “who will help me through the building process?” Once you have these some of these questions figured out, you have more decisions to make, like, “how do I best protect my building?” and “what kind of insulation do I need?” If you proceed with the proper planning, the building process should be full of benefits and mostly free of negative consequences. You’ll be in your new dream metal building in no time at all.

Once you decide on your building material and place an order with a steel building supplier, a project manager will contact you. A project manager will be your official guide through the building process. Whether you have a deep knowledge of steel buildings, or you’re a first time builder, the project manager will help you review your drawings, help you make changes to your plans, or just answer any question you may have. Your project manager is your single point of contact at Armstrong Steel throughout the remainder of the process, including construction. If you do in fact need any assistance, your they’ll help you with your final design and building options.

With your project manager, you’ll determine the size and location of all the openings for doors and windows, as well as the insulation needed. Cost estimates for each selection will be sent to you promptly during this phase of the project and you may make adjustments based on your budget and design requirements. No openings or options are final until you approve. Once you and your project manager agree on the openings and options, you will sign to approve the building as designed. After the approval process, you’ll release your building into the fabrication schedule, and you’ll move on to the permit drawing phase of the process.

Permits are important for many reasons. The most important aspect of a permit is to make sure your new dream metal building meets all of the specifications of your city or county. This approval from your city or county is also necessary to the success of your building. If you fail to communicate with your local municipality or your building company, you may end up with all of the materials to build, but not have the right type of zoning in your area to build. If that is the case, you would be in quite a predicament because your building is designed to your specific area. If your steel building doesn’t meet the building codes of your planned location, it wouldn’t be advisable to attempt to erect it in a different area.

Permit drawings can also guide engineers when designing a steel building. An engineer will look at the permit requirement for your area a design your building accordingly, making sure every structural specification is adequately met. For instance, a metal building in Minnesota is going to need to be able to withstand snowfall better than a building in Texas. A metal building out west in California will need to be able to handle seismic activity better than a building in Pennsylvania. There are loads and codes to which engineers must adhere. You want your building to last and permit regulations allow for our in-house engineers, along with civil engineers at your local municipality, to verify a building will stand and perform for decades.

Your project manager will send you permit drawings after the approval drawing phase is complete. When you receive the permit drawing, your next step is taking it to the county or city to get your plans approved. Don’t make the mistake of laying your foundation before you get your permit drawings. Not only could you be looking at setbacks and an increase in cost, but it might not match your anchor bolt plan. It really is one of the biggest blunders you can make early in the process!

Remember, there is a lot of work that goes into your new metal building, but it isn’t intimidating as long as you plan properly. Take your time and get the proper paperwork and permits completed in a timely fashion. Now all that’s left is to take delivery of your new dream metal building!

Photo courtesy: US Navy Official

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Expansion is often equated with success. You hear it everywhere. Expansion could be called the American dream, and many singers and entertainers even emphasize they started from “the bottom.” Owning just one property isn’t enough to win Monopoly, is it? Start small, and with hard work, you’ll hopefully achieve your dream of being successful. Whether it’s a giant business in your hometown, or a red hotel on Boardwalk and Park Place, everybody will be able to see how successful you are by the growth and expansion you’ve made since the infancy of your company.

I’m sure your business probably started small. A few chicken coops for the farmers in your community, some pricey medicine, and a small feed storage area. Did you have a barn? What about a cramped building? Did you inherit the building from your family? Like any new venture, I’m sure there were some struggles, but eventually you started to turn a profit. The community saw you had good product and great customer service. In time, you gained the trust of the people in your area. With your profit, you bought more products. Some of the medicine helped save a few cows for a neighbor down the road. The feed you sold was rationed and ensured the survival of other farm animals when the snows hit. You added farm more supplies and feeders. The small wood building that houses you and your store is filling up fast. A higher demand requires a larger inventory. Does this sound like your situation?

At first, a smaller building wasn’t a big deal, but now you’re planning on expanding even further. Maybe you’ve become successful enough, you need to add a larger feed storage area to your store or your traditional timber building is run down and it’s more cost effective to expand with a new building. Let the expansion begin with a steel building.

Now that you’re ready to expand, you should do it properly. A steel building is an investment. I call it an investment because even though the upfront expense of a steel building might be more than a traditional timber building, you’ll see much for added benefits in the long run. Good investments pay off in the long run, don’t they?

For example, a steel building is built to last. A quality steel building will come with a warranty that lasts multiple decades. Most, if not all, wood buildings will require some replacement in that amount of time. The longevity of a steel building could also increase your property value. Right now retirement seems like a long way away. but one day it will be a reality and should you choose to sell your building, that steel building will be in good shape and that means a higher value for your property.

Of course, construction time has the potential to delay your expansion and your success. When you purchase a steel building, any delays will typically be minimal. Steel buildings are delivered ready to assemble and can be assembled in days or weeks instead of months. Once your steel building is erected, you will be able to take advantage of all of the space that a rigid frame building provides. You’ll be able to use almost every inch of your building. There won’t be any poles or anything to navigate around, and should your feed store have the demand for larger farming equipment, you’ll typically have the ability to store it provided your building is large enough. Your steel building is secure enough to protect you from the onslaught of Mother Nature as well. Sun, wind, rain, fire, and insects are all deterred by the strength of steel.

Don’t let the stereotypical image of a steel building deter you from building with steel. Advances in modern construction technology will help your store look the way you want it to look. All you have to do is speak with a project manager in the design process, and they’ll help you come up with your perfect design. Incorporating the proper aesthetics for you will brand your store and make it stand out for the right reasons.

Enjoy your success. You’ve earned it. Now you don’t have to think about future success, you can just experience it once it comes along.

Photo courtesy: US Department of Agriculture (2),

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Everybody likes to get more for their money. I know I’m guilty of purchasing things I don’t necessarily need because the deal is just too good to pass up. The same principle can apply to your clientele. If one of your customers wants a building with more space, but can’t sacrifice the square footage, it might be a good idea to suggest the implementation of a mezzanine floor.

A mezzanine floor is simply a raised platform that is located between the floor and ceiling of a building. This platform can be used to double the space in a steel building.

Mezzanine floors can be built with steel, fiberglass, or aluminum. Fiberglass is durable, but liable to crack if too much stress is applied to it. Aluminum can be a smart decision when building due to its durability, but tends to be more expensive. A steel mezzanine floor will be sturdy and is typically more cost effective than aluminum. Steel is more durable than fiberglass and won’t crack due to pressure. Quality steel is made to last a lifetime. Steel also requires little to no maintenance, and steel buildings offer great resistance to fire, insects and termites. With the proper steel building coatings, such as the galvanization of secondary framing, you can protect the steel from rust and moisture.

Like a steel building, a mezzanine floor is designed to fit the dimensions your client desires. The mezzanine floor is adaptable and isn’t intrusive. This let’s you and your client erect a building that has favorable aesthetics. Let’s face it, whether it’s a business or residential building, it needs to be pleasing to the eye. Along with being aesthetically pleasing, a building needs to accommodate space for inventory, employees and customers. The shelf items need displayed and customers need room to browse and feel comfortable, but as I’m sure you know, a steel storage building will have extra items stocked up to replace the shelf items. A mezzanine floor can be used to store any stockpile of items, or as an upstairs office.

A residential building can benefit from a mezzanine in a similar way. If your client wants to add another room to their house, but doesn’t want an odd looking addition, a mezzanine floor could give them the room without ruining the initial design.

There are four different types of mezzanines and they can be incorporated into a design based on your client’s needs. The first design is referenced by many names such as free standing, structural, steel, or wide span mezzanines. Regardless of what name it goes by, a free standing mezzanine offer great flexibility in set-up and restructuring if needed.

A second design, called ‘building supported’, can be incorporated as long as the foundation can support the load. A blended system can be incorporated if the design of the building isn’t optimal for the entire load. In a blended system, the mezzanine is supported by both the building and by additional columns. It’s a good idea to always check with a project manager or engineer if you plan on adding a mezzanine to your steel building.

A ‘rack supported’ mezzanine can be added to existing storage racks to provide more storage space. Of course this depends on the strength of the existing storage racks. If the aforementioned storage racks are strong enough, catwalks can be installed as well.

‘Shelving supported’ mezzanines are another option and are ideal for storing smaller items. The shelving supported mezzanines are a cost efficient way to efficiently use your client’s existing space, but it is also the hardest mezzanine to reconfigure once it is erected.

When is the best time to include a mezzanine? Any time is ideal to include a mezzanine floor in a building. As I stated earlier, including a mezzanine in plans for a new building will allow your client to build a smaller building and still make the most efficient use of the space provided. Should your client have the urge to include an employee lounge in their already standing office building, a mezzanine is the perfect addition. Again, it’s a great idea to speak to an engineer or project manager at a steel building supplier to confirm a mezzanine system is right for your or your client.

Photo courtesy: Robert Plant

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What’s keeping you from growing your business? Of course you want to expand your business and see it bloom into success. Many small business owners are afraid to grow – and we understand it can be a hectic prospect – if you let it become one. What if you decide expansion isn’t in your future?

First off, you’ll forgo the whole expansion process. That’s just a headache waiting to happen right? Your business will stay the size it is right now, and you won’t ever have a need to hire more employees, or purchase more product or find more inventory space.

But that’s clearly not in YOUR future. It’s too easy to do your research online, find a reputable steel building provider, and speak with them about your purchase options. Talking to new people and putting yourself out on a limb always brings an uncertainty. Shopping for a new steel building isn’t a difficult process. You’ll speak to a building consultant, provide him or her with your proposed dimensions, your zip code and other timely information, and you’ll receive a personalized quote. In this stage, you can go over your budget and determine the biggest or smallest structure you can afford. You might wonder how much a steel building costs – obviously managing costs are on the forefront of every small business owner’s mind. Account for the building itself, foundation costs, dirt work and other expenditures associated with a construction project.

Once you agree to purchase a new steel building, you be assigned to a project manager. This is a huge advantage for a first time builder. Project managers aren’t usually available at a random steel building broker. At brokers, you generally deal with the same person from the beginning, but that person might not have your budget, specifications or needs in mind. Project managers at a steel building manufacturer, like Armstrong Steel, are in place to guide you through the entire expansion process from ordering to delivery and will even be there for you during the erection process if you have any questions or any problems arise.

When you build with steel, you have to worry about the factors that can potentially harm a new steel building. We’re talking about moisture or rust. That’s a concern. You don’t want your building’s structural integrity compromised. But instead of putting off an expansion because you’re not sure about the quality of building material you’ll use, take a look at some of the benefits of steel.

For instance, steel is durable. A steel building is able to withstand the elements such as sun, wind and rain. When you build with steel, you won’t have to worry about termites or other pests. A quality steel building is made to last a lifetime and will come with a 50-year structural warranty. This durability allows you to save money in the long run. Sure, a steel building might require a greater initial payment than a wooden pole barn, but a steel building will usually last longer and cost less over the building’s lifetime. You won’t need to spend your hard earned money on repairs or replacing panels. Ask your county or local real estate agent about land appreciation in association with steel buildings. Quite often, land with a steel building on it is considered permanent, and will rise in value over time. Land with a pole barn usually depreciates, because a pole building isn’t considered a permanent structure by land and permitting offices.

Your business is probably thriving right now. You’ve worked hard to get in this position. Why risk it? Growing your business will typically keep your business ahead of the competition, will usually help you reach new customers, and may lead to an increase in profits. But even though you’re ‘doing fine’ now, will that continue?

If you continue to put off an expansion, you might be risking the future success of your company. As we’ve learned in our marketplace, treading water isn’t good enough. Most likely you have a determined clientele, and you’d like to expand that list of customers, right? If you can’t continue to give better service to your customer base once you inevitably gain more business, they’ll leave you. Loyalty is hard to come by these days. People want fast, easy and cheap. In fact, according to a consumer loyalty survey by Accenture, only 28% of consumers are loyal to their providers and brands. Take care of your customers by planning to expand with a new steel building when you expand your business.

You’ve put off expansion too many times to count. You’ve faced many challenges and objections. The process of ordering your new steel building is simple and easy. Your project manager is there to help you through the entire process and will do as much as you want them to do. In life, there aren’t many occasions that somebody is willing to support you throughout an entire process, if you want it.

We all know success is measured in growth. Don’t be afraid to grow and be successful.

Photo courtesy: Robert Couse-Baker, Kate Ter Haar

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New experiences can be scary, but they can also be extremely helpful in the learning process. The first day of school, your first time behind the wheel of a car, and the day you met your significant other’s parents were all scary experiences…at first. After that initial meeting, you learned how to turn these foreign experiences into favorable encounters. Buying a steel building is the same way. Sure, it might seem foreign at first if you’re a first time builder, but once you understand all of the parts, erecting a pre-engineered metal building can be a favorable experience as well.

In order to break the ice, so to speak, let’s take a look around a pre-engineered steel building, and get you acquainted with the parts and components.

You could say the framing of your building is the skeleton and the H-beam mainframes are the backbone of your rigid-frame steel building. These frames consist of a two or more columns that support a rafter. A column is a vertical member used to transfer loads from main roof beams, trusses, or rafters. Rafters run laterally from one side of the building to another and are spaced at intervals between the two endwalls. Your rafters should have pre-welded clips and pre-punched holes to ensure accuracy, simple assembly and erection. The main frames bear most of the loads of the building.

The main frames will extend to the endwalls of your building. The endwall is an exterior wall that runs parallel to the interior frame of your building. An endframe will be located at the endwall and is used to help support the loads of the end bay. Your end bay is located adjacent to the endwall and is usually the distance from endwall to the first interior main frame. A bay is the space between the main frames or primary supporting members in the longitudinal direction of a steel building system.

The secondary framing in your building carries loads from the building’s surface to the main frames. Secondary framing includes purlins and girts. A purlin is a horizontal beam that supports a roof sheeting. A girt is a horizontal structural member that supports paneling and is attached to sidewall and endwall columns. Proper precautions in the planning process will help protect your building and it’s secondary framing. Protecting your steel with zinc coatings, otherwise known as galvanizing your steel, will protect against rust and corrosion. Installing a white roof can also help protect your building against the heat of the sun, but other colors will also provide superior protection. A premium sculpted gutter or downspout and base angles are your first line of defense from moisture leaking into your building.

Insulation could be necessary in your building to reduce heat transfer and to regulate temperature. Choosing the right insulation for your building is critical, but luckily with a little help from a project manager, it isn’t a difficult process.

Your wall sheeting will be placed on the outside of your frame. The wall sheeting is usually available in multiple colors. Below your wall sheeting, you can add a wainscot. Wainscot is a material that is different from the rest of the wall. The color you pick and whether you add a wainscot to your wall are all aesthetic choices and finishing options for a pre-engineered metal building. If you’re looking to buy, make sure you check out which warranties each supplier offers.

I hope now that you have a basic understanding of what your steel building is made up of, the proposition of erecting a pre-engineered metal building isn’t scary at all.

Want to get more in depth? Visit our virtual steel building for more information!

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Let’s face it – steel is synonymous with strength. Superman is often known as “The Man of Steel.” He is the most powerful superhero and is called upon to save the people of Earth from alien threats, killer robots, and ruthless billionaires. Your custom steel building is – in essence – just like Superman. While it may not be able to protect you from alien invasions, it’s strong and secure enough to protect you and your belongings if it’s properly designed.

There are many things you can do to make sure your custom steel building protects you like it’s supposed to. The most important is to not fall into what I like to call the “the cheap building trap.” When you’re shopping around for a custom steel building, don’t just pick the building with the cheapest price. In the construction industry, ‘you get what you pay for.’ If you pay a little, you’re more than likely going to get little quality. But you don’t have to break the bank either. Quality steel is necessary to keep your metal building safe and secure. There are ways to save money with a custom steel building and your project manager would be happy to help you, but sacrificing quality for price isn’t one of them. Don’t forget there is a difference between cost and price as well. Price is usually the amount of which you’re paying, but cost is the amount you stand to lose over time. This is the word you need to use when you talk about a return on your investment. You are looking for a return on your investment, right?

Many people tend to ignore instruction manuals. If I get a new TV stand, I’m probably going to dump all the pieces out on the floor and go to work. Usually I end up with a few extra parts leftover, but the TV stand is still up and ready to go. This is NOT what you want to do with your steel building. Your custom steel building is designed to your specific requirements and your area. While it’s true your building is designed to be erected quickly and efficiently, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take care when you’re in the erection process. Properly installing the fasteners is another step that seems like common sense, and it could hurt the structural integrity of your building if this specific process isn’t given the proper attention. There are many other mistakes you can make in the erection process, which could jeopardize the structural integrity of a building. Proper design and a little maintenance will keep your metal building strong and secure for decades. A white roof could help your building fend off the sun and galvanized steel will protect it from rust.

A custom steel building will keep you safe and secure from fire as well. Steel isn’t combustible like wood. Should the unthinkable happen and a fire break out in your building, your custom steel building is typically able to withstand such disaster, unlike a wood framed building or pole barn. Quality steel is designed to last decades, not just years. A properly erected custom steel building also comes with a 50-year structural warranty, 40-year wall panel and paint warranty, and 35-year roof panel warranty. You shouldn’t have to worry about your building every day. You are busy enough, and with a steel building, you won’t have to worry.

Again, with the proper care and design, your building will have structural security, but there are measures you can take to protect from an intruders. Obviously, it will be your call to take these precautions based on the crime levels in your area. Steel doors and self-framing windows can be incorporated to keep intruders out. These metal security techniques have all the same benefits your metal building will have, like resistance to fire and durability. It’s an ugly thing to think about, but with steel you’ll usually be able to rest assured that there won’t be any unwanted guests in your building. This includes pests like termites!

But, of course, the ‘Man of Steel’ isn’t perfect. While I wouldn’t say your steel building has a ‘kryptonite,’ you will need to protect it against moisture. To prevent moisture, you can investigate steel building insulation with a suitable R-value for your particular area. Periodical replacement of your insulation will help keep your building strong for years.

Follow these tips and your custom steel building should stay secure, and be able to protect you from almost anything.

Photo courtesy: Joseph Novak

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Are you shopping for a new metal building? Are you looking for a new workshop or garage for your property? If you are unsure of what material to build with, take a look at some of the reasons to build a pre-engineered metal building.

New Technology, New Designs – When you build with steel, you aren’t limited to designs of the past. Now you can design your building to have virtually any appearance you want due to modern technology.
Build Green – Steel buildings don’t take a toll on the environment like traditional timber buildings do. Steel buildings require ZERO trees to build. The same obviously can’t be said about other building materials.
Energy Efficient – Steel buildings can be extremely energy efficient, leading to increased savings on heating and cooling costs.
Versatility – A steel frame can be incorporated into many different designs such as office buildings, sheds, and even churches.
Open Space – A rigid frame steel building won’t have intrusive poles to support the roof and walls, and also won’t have bulky trusses taking up space in your building. Use ALL the space in a pre-engineered metal building!
Durability – Quality steel is durable and can last a lifetime. Be sure to check the warranties of the pre-engineered steel building you purchase.
Save Money – You can lock your steel order and get in contact with a project manager right away.
Increase Property Value – The durability of a steel building will keep the building in excellent condition over time and may allow you to sell your property for more profit than if you were to build with wood.
Low Labor Cost – Due to the simplicity of the erection process of a pre-engineered steel building, you won’t have to pay laborers for a long period of time.
Easy to Incorporate HVAC Sensors– HVAC sensors can automatically regulate things like lights and temperature to save energy.
Solar Power – Your steel building can be engineered to incorporate solar panels and solar power.
Tax Breaks – According to the IRS, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 increased the tax credit from 10% to 30% for incorporating energy efficient features into a design.
Steel Is Recyclable – Steel scrap can be an essential ingredient in the steelmaking process.
Strength – Your steel building is impervious to rotting, unlike a traditional timber building or pole barn.
No Termites – A steel building will not fall victim to an insect infestation such as termites.
Fire Resistant – Steel has a natural resistance to fire and will be able to withstand high temperatures.
Weather Resistant -Your steel building will be designed with your location and climate in mind. This greatly raises the chances your building will be able to withstand the elements such as rain, hurricanes, and even earthquakes.
Flexibility – Steel buildings can be as small as 10’x10’ or have 300’ spans or more.
Build For The Long Term – The upfront cost of a steel building could be more than a pole barn, but consider it an investment that can slowly appreciate over time. Land with a pole barn could depreciate over time.
Little Maintenance – Steel buildings require very little maintenance and will allow you to invest your funds elsewhere.
Factory Manufactured Product – Steel building systems are applicable in almost every design. Plus, they don’t come off an assembly line. Pre-engineered structures are built specifically for each individual’s needs.
Quick Assembly – Pre-engineered metal building parts are welded in the factory before they are shipped out. This means everything will come to your job site ready for erection; no field fabrication or welding necessary.
Erect the Building Yourself – You can erect the building with a few friends of family members! If you feel uncomfortable with erecting a steel building, there are independent, professional contractors available for hire.
Project Managers – When you place an order, we will assign you a project manager (at no extra cost). The project manager will be there to guide you through the design and engineering process. A project manager is NOT a General Contractor.
Single Source Production – Some companies outsource your entire steel building purchase after they receive your business. That’s something a “broker” does. By choosing a provider that will design and engineer your building in house, and help you throughout the entire process, you will have an easier time, especially if you need to communicate any necessary changes.
Easily Expandable – Your steel building is easily expanded by removing end walls and adding panels.
Mezzanine Floors – Your building can be designed to incorporate a mezzanine floor. They are always an option for your steel building to make an effective use of all the space you have.
Design Process – By making the right decisions in the design process, you’re setting up your steel building for the long run.
Easy To Protect Against Rust – When designing your building, opt for galvanized secondary framing to protect against rust.
Multiple Paint Options – By simply choosing the right paint, you can reflect the sun’s rays away from your building and extend its lifespan in the process. Choose from 20 different colors for your pre-engineered metal building.
Just Follow The Instructions – If you like to get your hands dirty, a pre-engineered steel building is something you may be able to put together by following easy instructions.
Lower Insurance Rates – Since steel is so durable, you will typically see lower insurance costs than other building materials.
Grow Crops All Year – Steel greenhouses can be designed to grow indoor crops year round.
Easily Replicable – Should you desire another steel building in a different area, it is easy to update specifications and restart the building process.
High Humidity Tolerance – Pre-galvanized steel protects against rust and this allows you to have a humid environment in your steel building without worrying about corrosion.
Clear Span – Clear span rigid frames do not have interior columns or internal poles to stand. The loads from the roof are supported and transferred to the foundation.
Increased Safety – Steel buildings can be designed with multiple exits to increase safety. Plus, it’s an engineered system, meaning it’s designed to stand for decades.
Perfect For Barns – A steel building offers the space and safety needed to house all of your farming equipment, livestock and storage.
No Waste – Each steel building is designed in house, so there is no residual waste. You only pay for the materials you use, as opposed to lumber.
Install Outside Water Source – A steel barn can be built to support the loads of an outside water source.
Permits Are Relatively Easy To Obtain – Permits are used to make sure your building meets the safety requirements of your area. In most cases, it isn’t difficult to obtain a necessary permit.
Efficient Material Utilization – Computer aided design and manufacturing processes allow steel to be fabricated with lower wastes and material costs.
Necessary Expansion – Whether you need to keep up with your rivals or need to meet product demand, expanding with steel will usually keep your down time low and your profits relatively normal.
Perfect For Fallout Shelters – If you want to be ready for anything, reinforced steel walls and steel poles will be able to protect you from whatever dangers there are in the outside world.
LEED Certification – Your pre-engineered steel building can be designed with the U.S. Green Building Council’s standards in mind and can earn you a LEED certification.
EPA Friendly – The EPA advises to build for durability and adaptability to reduce waste and help protect the environment. These are two of the many benefits of steel.
See the Light -Your steel building can be designed to include large windows and skylights to take advantage of natural light and reduce energy cost. You get to decide to place your window and door openings wherever you like.
Steel Is An American Export – The American steel industry is alive and well. Of course some companies import their steel or export their orders overseas, buying from an American in-house manufacturer is the best option.
History – The first iron frame building was built in 1796 in Shrewsbury, England and in 1889, the Rand McNally Building in Chicago became the first ‘all steel framed’ skyscraper. Today, pre-engineered buildings are some of the most durable, flexible and versatile structures in the world.
Over 10,000 Buildings Erected Every Year – Workers erect over 10,000 steel buildings every year all across the USA. You’re not alone.

A steel building can be the perfect solution for you. If you still aren’t convinced, feel free to check out our First Time Builders blog for more information.

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The steel workshop you’ve been building is finally complete. Most likely it was a simple process that, with the help of your project manager, went smoothly with no headaches. Since your steel workshop is erected, it’s time to enjoy it. If you’re a car guy, you probably spend a majority of your free time in the ol’ garage tinkering with a “fixer upper” or putting a fresh coat of wax on your classic muscle car.

To keep a car looking like it is brand new, you need to keep up on routine maintenance. Vacuuming your car can easily be overlooked, but I’m sure you know it’s an essential task. If you’re taking suggestions, may I suggest the ArmorAll AA255 Utility Wet/Dry Vacuum.

The ArmorAll AA255 Utility Wet/Dry Vacuum, as the name suggests, can suck up both liquid and solids. This vacuum runs on a two horsepower motor and come with an automatic shut off when it reaches 2.5 gallon capacity. When you run this vacuum, there is no need to worry about overflow. The ArmorAll AA255 Utility Wet/Dry Vacuum, also comes equipped with a blower. The ArmorAll AA255 Vacuum has multiple attachments for its six foot long hose that includes a crevice tool, blower nozzle, and car nozzle. Do you need to get down in the nooks and crannies of your car? Attach the crevice tool. Want to simply blow some dust off your classic beauty after a long winter? There’s a blower nozzle for any job. Use the car nozzle to lift any dirt or pet hair that may have been left behind. Is flooding a problem in your area? This vac could be a saving grace.

The biggest selling point in my eyes is the price. This vacuum isn’t a giant industrial sized vacuum, but you won’t pay like it’s one either. With a base price averaging around $40, you certainly get your money’s worth. The fact that it isn’t an industrial sized vacuum also means it isn’t big and bulky. This compact vacuum can be stored out of sight in your steel workshop when it isn’t needed and isn’t a hassle to carry around when it is needed.

On the down side, this wet vac can only hold 2.5 gallons of liquid, according to the specs I previously mentioned. I wonder if it’s enough for a bigger emergency. I’ve read plenty of other reviews on other sites claiming the suction wasn’t up to snuff the older the vacuum got older. Some have even said it doesn’t last long or dies very quickly.

I don’t want to give you the wrong impression. When I say it isn’t an industrial vacuum, I’m not trying to downplay the vacuum’s effectiveness. In fact, I think this vacuum can perform, and then some, as an entire garage vacuum. Blow off work benches or suck up spilled liquids without worry because, from my experience, the ArmorAll AA225 can handle it. You want to make sure your steel workshop is clean and accessible because it houses your cars and we all know, outside of your family, those cars are your pride and joy, right?

Shop around and find a vacuum for your steel workshop that best suits you. I’ll most likely be adding the ArmorAll AA255 Utility Wet/Dry Vacuum to my arsenal of cleaning supplies. It seems like the perfect combination to protect your car, steel workshop and your wallet.

Looking for more tool reviews? Visit our Contractor Central section for more tips and advice.

Photo courtesy: ArmorAll

Search Results for: project manager

It seems like everybody has one great foe in their life they must eventually overcome. Peyton Manning (among others) must battle Tom Brady (again, among others) every year for the MVP award. Dusty Rhodes battled Ric Flair for the world wrestling championship countless times. The great foe for a new metal building might not be a future hall of fame athlete, but it is something formidable: moisture. However, if you adequately prepare with a project manager in the building process, you’ll be able to protect your new metal building and extend its life.

The appearance of moisture can come from a poorly maintained roof, cracks in the foundation, or from condensation. Water drops formed on a ceiling are a probable sign of condensation in your new metal building. Condensation forms when there is more moisture in the air than the air can hold and can cause damage to your insulation and other parts of your building. A properly insulated building will typically fight against condensation by preventing airflow between your building and the outside world, thus regulating temperature. Insulation can be damaged by moisture and may need to be replaced periodically. HVAC systems can be installed in your steel building and are able to automatically regulate temperature. An HVAC system can help fight against condensation as well as save you money when it comes to energy conservation too.

Let’s say dealing with a moisture problem just plain scares you. If the threat of moisture and its consequences forces you to look at other building materials, you’re already going down the wrong path. No matter what type of building material you decide to use for your next building project, you’re going to have to deal with precipitation and all different forms of moisture.

Should the threat of moisture force you to build a wooden pole barn, understand moisture can cause wood to rot or warp. Rot occurs when moist conditions provide a breeding ground for fungus and cause the timber to decay. Moist conditions could also cause the wood to twist, and move out of its footings. Naturally this decay or twist in your wood will weaken your structure and could cause you to spend money on multiple replacement parts in the future. While steel is susceptible to moisture, there are preventative measures to protect it. The most important fact of the matter – you’ll never have to worry about steel rotting or warping due to moisture.

Condensation can hurt your building, but there are things you can do to prevent it. For example, you should ensure there is proper ventilation and circulation in your building. Ceiling vents will allow the moist air to leave your building and adding fans could easily allow moisture to evaporate and not hang around. A strategically placed air tight lighting fixture will not leak warm air into your building and could help prevent condensation. Be sure to include a vapor barrier with your insulation to further protect against moisture.

Rust is also caused by moisture and can appear on both the outside of your building or on the inside. If rust appears on the outside of your building, it could lower your property value if you wanted to sell your building in the future. The appearance of rust obviously isn’t aesthetically pleasing, and it’s an ugly truth in our society that we judge by appearance. Rust on the inside of your building can be even worse than outside rust. The inside rust can lower the structural integrity of your building and, in turn, shorten your building’s life. You can fight rust and maybe even prevent it with the proper decisions in the design process. Decisions like incorporating galvanized secondary framing and ordering through a steel building provider that provides structural, paint, roof and wall panel warranties will protect your building from rust. Ask your steel building provider about the proper coatings to prevent rust and extend the life of the structure.

Moisture can be the enemy for a new steel building, but if you do your research and plan properly, you can defeat that foe and be the hero your steel building deserves.

Search Results for: project manager

Family is the most important thing in life to many, if not all people. The typical scenarios repeat themselves in almost every family. Children are born, and then begin to make friends. Later in life, more relationships form. Soon, people move in together and develop families of their own. Parents become elderly and you must make the hard decision between a nursing home or inviting them to move in with you.

Change is difficult no matter the circumstances. But change isn’t tough if you have a steel building.

You probably weren’t thinking of family or business expansion and the inevitable space problem when you decided to search different building materials. You might have just been tired of paying rent and wanted to own your building. Maybe your circumstances changed, and you needed something different. Maybe you already own a pre-engineered steel building, and you weren’t aware you could grow the building according to your needs.

So you need to go bigger. Expanding the length of your building requires a clear spanning moment-resistant frame. If your original building was fabricated with post and beam construction, you will need to install a clear spanning moment-resistant frame to continue your expansion. Once you have this installed, you are free to add to your building as you wish. Naturally, you are able to design your building with the intention of future expansion and you can add the proper framing to make it easier and more affordable to expand when the time comes.

Adding width to your pre-engineered steel building is also a possibility. This type of expansion could require a lean-to. A lean-to is a smaller building that shares a wall with a larger building and a roof that leans against that wall. You must be sure that your roof line will accommodate your new expansion by meeting the necessary height. Be sure to take into consideration your climate because a snow load should be accounted for when expanding in this manner.

If you’re considering a steel building purchase, and you think you might expand in the future, tell your project manager. They’ll work with detailers and engineers to ensure expansion down the road is even easier.

If you can’t expand outward, building a second story is always an option. You’ll probably need to make some adjustments to your existing building, but you should still be able to erect the addition you desire. Instead of being supported by the original frame, your second story can be designed to allow the vertical parts of your frame to be supported by the foundation. Of course, this means you will need a sufficient foundation. Adding a mezzanine is always an option, to expand, and efficiently use all of the space in your building and not just the ground.

When you are expanding, be sure to check your local building codes. Your original building may be out of compliance due to the changing of codes and you may have to address this issue before you can expand. Knowledge of your local municipality’s building codes will also allow your addition to be designed in the safest and most efficient way possible.

Life happens. The original building you purchased all those years ago might not be big enough to hold your family anymore. Your steel building provider can help you expand your building to accommodate your needs.

Photo courtesy: Skeeze

Search Results for: project manager

As a contractor, a major concern is acquiring jobs. That’s how you make a living to support your family and pay bills. To win a job, you must present the most attractive bid to a potential customer. Ensuring you have an acceptable bid can be done by eliminating mistakes such as math or clerical errors and double checking you included all of your required licenses in your bid. What if a technically sound bid just isn’t enough? That’s when you must pull out your secret weapon. The ability to erect a pre-engineered steel building.

The benefits of pre-engineered steel buildings are incredible and should impress your potential customer. Steel’s most impressive quality is its strength. Steel is the strongest building material available and according to the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), the increase alone in standard steel strength from 10 years ago to today is greater than the total strength of competing materials. A quality steel building should come with warranties that allow you and your customer to rest assured that this building won’t come tumbling down any time soon.

A pre-engineered steel building will usually have lower project costs. Think about a pole barn for a moment. Every few years, you might have to replace rotting or warped wood, or fix sagging members. That’s an extra cost. Labor costs are significantly decreased because a pre-engineered is easy to erect. The building comes bolt-together, with no welding or field fabrication necessary.

Speed of construction is a huge factor when it comes to the building erection process. That’s another factor which could have a huge impact on whether or not your bid is chosen. A pre-engineered steel building will allow you to complete the erection in days or weeks, compared to months, like other building materials. This is a benefit to you as a contractor and the customer. The customer is one step closer to finishing their building and you can move on to your next job quicker and earn more income!

Another benefit of a pre-engineered steel building for both you and your customer is the ability to make modifications to the original building in the future if desired. These buildings can be expanded easily in the future. This benefit doesn’t lock the customer into long term design commitment for the rest of their life and it also allows you to have the possibility of future work down the road.

Your customer will also be interested in the nearly limitless design potential. Pre-engineered steel building are utilized as residential, commercial, agricultural and industrial applications, and come in every shape and size. These buildings are built to handle the local weather and climate according to building codes. When a customer decides to purchase a pre-engineered steel building, they’re building with a fire resistant material as well. If your customer is interested in saving energy and protecting the environment, a steel building can be designed to incorporate solar panels, HVAC systems and other energy saving systems. When you place an order for a pre-engineered steel building for your customer, they’ll receive the services of a project manager. A project manager will be able to help you or your customer through the design process and will be available if you have any questions or concerns in the erection process. You’re not alone in this process.