| Page 9 of 17 | Armstrong Steel

Search Results for: project manager

When you’re looking to build a steel building, it’s quite obvious you have choices. You have the freedom to choose who to buy from, when to buy and what to buy. Simple decisions like choosing between Pepsi or Coke, McDonald’s or Burger King, and Chevy or Ford is really just a matter of preference. Each previous choice is relatively similar to each other. But don’t put a steel building purchase in the same category. There is a big difference between steel building manufacturers and brokers – and the difference could cost you.

A broker might refer to themselves as a “contract manufacturer,” but they don’t actually manufacture anything! They are simply in the business of outsourcing. Brokers don’t employ personnel to design, engineer and fabricate a pre-engineered steel building. Instead, the main function of a broker is to take your desired dimensions and shop them around to manufacturers. Think of it like this – Brokers are only working as ‘middle-men’ who want to sell you the cheapest building. They are essentially mediators between contractors, manufacturers, companies, and the customer. They’ll arrange for only the purchase and delivery of the building for you, but might not give you vast options on price. Basically, you’re married to the decisions of a broker. In fact, that’s all some steel building companies can do. They’ll send out for all of the other important aspects that manufacturers can do in-house. You want windows, maybe a roll-up door, an awning or a canopy. You want to put your individual flair into every bit of the design process.

A broker tends to look for the cheapest price, regardless of quality, and that often translates to poorly designed steel buildings, with little or no attention to detail. Brokers rarely concern themselves with anything beyond finding the cheapest structure, and outsource the engineering and design to others. Whether it’s your home, church or place of business, your pre-engineered steel building shouldn’t be afterthought – it should be the only thought. The last thing you need to worry about is the hidden danger of the cheapest price, and whether your building could collapse or need costly repairs in the near future. A broker won’t concern themselves with your long term needs. What happens when your building shows up with missing pieces? Will a broker be able to help? Not at all.

Steel building manufacturers are able to design, engineer and fabricate a pre-engineered steel building because they have their own engineers, detailers and an actual manufacturing facility or factory to fabricate your pre-engineered steel building according to your exact specifications. Manufacturers sell directly to the public – no expensive middleman necessary! Steel building manufacturers have much more control over the entire process of a steel building project, and can assist a customer from conception to completion.

Your project is essentially in your hands when you purchase from pre-engineered steel building manufacturers, because you can have input every step of the way. Once you’re content with a manufacturer who will design, engineer and fabricate the highest quality steel building, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your dream building with a project manager. Do you have a specific design in mind? A manufacturer can accommodate your design wishes. With a broker, you might be stuck with a building they suggest, because they are exclusively an expensive ‘go-between.’ You’re not picking your building. They are.

In addition, a manufacturer will let you choose your own doors, windows, insulation and other building extras. Don’t let anyone “include” those accessories! There’s a reason why contractors and brokers insist on maintaining control over every aspect of the costs associated with any given project, right? That’s where they hide the markups! Letting someone choose your doors and windows for you is like letting someone choose the floors, paint colors, and finishes in your home – sight unseen. You don’t know what you’re getting beforehand because the choice has already been made for you. Pre-engineered steel building manufacturers, like Armstrong Steel, will let you pick your accessories and add-on’s from a catalog. You’ll know exact costs on those extras before you add them to your building.

A helping hand isn’t the only benefit steel building manufacturers can provide. You’ll be able to review plans throughout the process and make changes if you deem them necessary. Engineers, designers, project managers, and the rest of the staff is usually all in one building. You won’t be routed overseas to talk to different people in charge of your project. There is only one place to go, one group of people to handle your project. This is your dream building, you should have the choice to change aspects of it. You still want a choice, right? Don’t downplay the access to engineers and designers either. These steel building experts aren’t all in one place to only to assist customers; they’re always focused on improving and staying up to date with metal building technologies and techniques.

A steel building manufacturer will also offer structural, roof, wall panel and paint warranties for its buildings. A broker may not offer a warranty, and if they do, it may be a minimal warranty. A warranty tells you how much trust a provider has in their product and a limited or short warranty doesn’t exactly elicit a lot of trust.

Buying a steel building is a once in a lifetime purchase, and you want to make sure you do it right the first time. When you look for steel building quotes – be upfront with the company and ask if they manufacture their own product or not. Don’t risk your steel building project to an unknown source! When it comes to YOUR steel building project, you deserve the right to make choices!

Photo courtesy: US Naval Forces Europe

Search Results for: project manager

Nobody ever wants to walk into a purchase blindfolded. Why enter any endeavor without all, or most of the facts? At least gather enough information to make an informed decision. The same can easily and obviously be said when it comes to a pre-engineered steel building purchase. If you’re thinking about purchasing a pre-engineered steel building, you’ve taken the first step. However, are you truly equipped to dive into the steel building world? Knowing the benefits of steel is nice, but I think you should be able to swim through the steel building conversation effortlessly. If you can’t, you may end up paying for a lower quality product. I understand many of you might be first time or novice builders. Don’t drown in the unknown. Understand the words and phrases a building expert might use, so you can talk intelligently about your steel building project.

Let’s start at the beginning, shall we? What is a ‘pre-engineered steel building?’ A pre-engineered steel building is a durable, flexible and versatile structure designed and fabricated according to specific lengths, determined by you and your steel building provider. Steel buildings are extremely cost efficient, energy efficient, and offer speedy construction times, especially compared to traditional construction methods. When we say ‘fabricated,’ we mean the manufacturing process of converting raw material into finished steel building system components. The thickness of steel is commonly specified by a measurement known as ‘gauge.’ Plus, when talking about the steel itself, you might come across the words ‘galvanized’ or ‘pre-galvanized’ steel. Galvanized steel is able to protect your building from corrosion because it’s coated with zinc. This is a much better option than red iron steel, which is usually cheaper and has little to no rust protection.

You may hear the terms ‘manufacturer’ and ‘broker’ when you’re looking for a steel building provider. If they both serve the function of providing you with a pre-engineered steel building, what’s the difference? Actually, there is a HUGE difference, and it could cost you down the road. The main function of a Broker is to research different manufacturers to find the best proposal, and arrange purchase and delivery. Brokers are usually referred to as ‘contract manufacturers,’ but they don’t actually manufacture anything associated with your building. A Manufacturer is a party who designs and fabricates steel building systems. While it’s true you can go through either option to purchase a pre-engineered steel building, you should be aware a broker doesn’t actually own their own factory and a broker could hand your project over to the cheapest bidder while pocketing the difference and leaving you with a low quality building. When purchasing through a manufacturer, you know you’re working with the company directly responsible for designing and fabricating a steel building.

Maybe you’ve made your decision and chosen a manufacturer to design and fabricate your pre-engineered steel building, but what kind of help are you entitled to, and what will it end up costing you? A Project Manager is your official contact with a manufacturer like Armstrong Steel, and these steel building experts will guide you through the pre-erection process and specialize in answering all of your questions. But be careful! Make sure your steel building supplier includes a project manager at no extra cost to you. The assistance of a project manager should never come at a price.

Once you’ve committed to purchasing a pre-engineered steel building, you may be able to lock in your steel order. Your payment covers the cost of building drawings, and any costs associated with detailing and engineering a building. This isn’t a separate charge for your pre-engineered steel building, it’s more like a down payment.

If you’re comfortable taking control and managing certain aspects of your own project, and you’re prepared for your purchase with financing and land ready, you might be able to take advantage of the Direct Buy Process. The Direct Buy process starts when you fill out a contact form and speak to a building consultant. Your building consultant will guide you through the process of the steel building purchase, and educate you on what to expect. The Direct Buy process is a nine step program, designed to assist the first time and experienced builder alike save money on a steel building purchase by buying directly from the manufacturer. To further assist the manufacturer, it’s also a great idea to know and provide your county’s building codes, or set of rules that specify minimum structural standards, and loads, which are forces that are exerted on a structural member of a steel building system.

Do you know what a purlin is? What about a girt, or wainscot? You don’t need to be an expert on the parts of the steel building at this very moment, but a general understanding is necessary when it comes to building erection. Our virtual steel building outlines each part and piece in steel building construction, and is a very handy tool, especially if you plan on erecting a steel building yourself.

Just like jumping into the deep end of a pool can be intimidating for an inexperienced swimmer, purchasing a steel building without knowing the lingo can be just as startling. If you’re interested in learning more about steel buildings, or the steel building process, check out the glossary section to educate yourself on various steel building terms. You’ll be a pro in no time.

Photo courtesy: bluefield photos bp

Search Results for: project manager

We all know the story of the three little pigs. Three pigs built houses with different materials and the big bad wolf comes and blows the weaker houses down. Eventually, the third pig’s house is just too strong to be blown down. The last little pig put the time and effort into building a structure and was safe. We often think of this as just a fairy tale for children, but the moral of the story is just as important, if not more important to small business owners. When you think about expanding your business, you have many options, but it’s necessary to do your research and find your best option. Let’s take a look at three business owners who are considering expansion and see who learned from our “little” fable.

Business Owner Case Study #1: Ted

Ted has decided to not expand his business. Profits are good right now and he doesn’t want to spend more money when everything is working out fine at the current time. Ted’s decision seems to make sense, but only if when thinking about the present. This decision doesn’t factor in the long term ramifications of his small business. Right now, Ted may be able to compete with his competition, but choosing not to expand is gambling on the idea the competition won’t expand. If the competition expands, they will create a buzz and it will most likely lead to more curious customers. Eventually, it’s possible Ted could lose his standing in the economy and his position isn’t so comfortable anymore. Now, expansion isn’t a decision to be made on his own; it’s a necessity to survive.

Ted’s decision to not expand turned what should be an easy process into a stressful situation down the road. Even if you have put off expansion, but want to expand now, it doesn’t have to be complicated. You just have to do your research and you’ll find a steel building provider to help you achieve your goal.

Business Owner Case Study #2: Calvin

Like Ted, Calvin’s car repair business has reached a crossroads. After hours of research and personal reflection, he comes to the decision that expansion is the only way his business will grow. Taking his profit into consideration, Calvin notices that traditional timber has a relatively low upfront cost and decides to utilize a wood framed building. Calvin places his order for traditional timber, understanding the wood will have to be measured and cut on the job site. Calvin also has to work with and pay his architect if any adjustments need to be made on the job site. He understands his new shop is susceptible to mold, termites, and fire. Wood isn’t as durable as other building materials and boards, planks and parts will most likely need to be replaced every few years.

Once Calvin’s building was erected, he ran into another problem. Wood buildings often require truss systems. When he tried to install car lifts in his auto shop, he realized he could only raise the car halfway to the anticipated height. If he would have looked into the clear span framing option and thought to buy a steel building, he wouldn’t be running into this issue.

Consider what material with which to build. Weigh the pro’s and cons of a steel building and a pole barn.

Business Owner Case Study #3: Derek

Derek is always thinking about the future, and he wants to take his small business to the next level. He understands that a steel building is an investment in his business and, naturally, wants to get a good return on his investment. Derek took the time to do as much research as he could, reading every blog and article he could find on the subject. He found several resources and made his decision to buy a steel building. Derek ordered his pre-engineered steel building from Armstrong Steel, through the Direct Buy process. He decided to buy directly from the manufacturer, so he could pick out his accessories and manage his project down to the last detail. Derek worked with a dedicated project manager, and ordered a building with pre-galvanized secondary framing to protect his building from the elements.

This pre-engineered steel building, like all pre-engineered steel buildings manufactured by Armstrong Steel, came with a 50-year structural warranty. Derek doesn’t have to worry about termites, fire, or the elements either due to steel’s natural resistance to such things. On top of it all, Derek’s shop is pre-engineered, meaning it’s designed specifically for his land and his location.

While there is no tangible big bad wolf in our example, the antagonist is still present, just in the form of a true challenge. Life has a funny way of testing you and your choices. The first two little pigs didn’t think about the future. They only planned for the present. When a challenge rolled around (the wolf), these pigs weren’t in a position to handle it.

Ted and Calvin were the same way. I’m not saying a wolf, or anything else will come and knock down Calvin’s wood frame structure, or Ted’s business. But the inability to forecast changes in the business landscape, and not plan for future problems could leave two of our small business owners with problems down the road.

Building expansion is a necessity when it comes to growing your business. When you decide to expand your business, take a lesson from these three business owners. Do your research and build a building that even the big bad wolf couldn’t blow down.

Photo courtesy: Enokson

Search Results for: project manager

According to the Metal Building Manufacturer’s Association, “Metal building systems now account for over 50% of new low-rise, non-residential buildings in the U.S.” If you’re reading this, I assume you have noticed this trend – and maybe that means you’re interested in making your next building a metal building.

Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: when I talk about metal buildings, I am usually referencing a pre-engineered metal building. A pre-engineered metal building is the most flexible, versatile and durable solutions on the market today for contractors, first time builders, small business owners and more. A pre-engineered metal building is designed to your personal specifications and arrives to your job site ready to be assembled, with no field fabrication necessary. This assembly process comes with instructions and in most cases, you won’t need any special tools to erect the building. There are other types of metal buildings, such as a quonset hut and a steel/wood combination. A quonset hut incorporates an arch frame design from the World War II era, and a steel/wood combination incorporates both building materials.

Steel is extremely durable and quality steel will last for decades. When you purchase your metal building, be sure to ask about the company’s structural, paint, and roof warranties. For instance, Armstrong Steel offers a 50-year structural warranty, tops in the industry. With proper planning in the design process, your steel building will be resistant to wind, fire, rain, snow, and even the sun. When you decide to build a pre-engineered metal building, your local municipality’s building codes and guidelines are taken into consideration. You don’t want a building engineered to withstand the intense winds off the Florida coast if you live in Minnesota. By the same token, a building engineered to endure the snow of a Minnesota winter isn’t best suited for Florida either. You get the idea!

A pre-engineered steel building usually doesn’t incorporate intrusive poles into its design. They can be designed to utilize clear span framing, which allows the maximum amount of space in a building. It’s the perfect option to store airplanes or some of your other large equipment. In a clear span building, every square foot of the building can be used, and you won’t have to navigate around poles, obstructions, interior columns or internal truss systems. Think about all the room in the roof area for storage! Should you not have the need to erect a large building now, but will need to in the future, don’t worry because steel buildings can be expanded just as easily as they can be erected.

There are tons of ways to save money on your steel building. Keep in mind, sacrificing quality shouldn’t be one of them. Sometimes the lowest priced steel building is your best option, but often times, it could end up being a trap. Most of the time, a steel building that has a low price tag won’t come with the benefits, warranties, or assistance of a project manager. How do you know if you’re buying from a broker, or a steel building manufacturer? What’s the difference?

A steel building broker quotes you a price, and then finds the cheapest supplier in order to find the largest profit margin. Brokers will order a building, and subcontract the design somewhere else, sometimes going out of the country. The steel building broker isn’t invested in your project, and this is evident by them shopping for the least expensive manufacturer and not offering to fully manage your project. If there are erection problems, it’s your problem. If the building doesn’t fit together, it’s your problem. There could be a lot of problems.

Buying directly from a manufacturer is a smarter option. For instance, Armstrong Steel owns and operates our very own manufacturing facility in Denver, CO. Manufacturers control every step in the steel fabrication process, from conception to completion. In addition, accountability and improvement are among a steel building manufacturer’s core objectives and, in our case, we hold our products and processes to the highest standards. The ability to focus on quality, and ensure tight deadlines are met make manufacturers superior. In addition, at Armstrong Steel, we also have a full engineering and detailing team in-house, not overseas. Isn’t that what you would expect for your steel building purchase? Be sure to do your research when you shop around understand what you’re actually buying.

A successful and headache-free purchase process also depends on the proper preparation. When you lock in your order with an engineering payment, you’ll get your drawings and you’ll be contacted by a project manager (maybe me!) I’ll be glad to guide you through your first metal building purchase. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice and tips to ensure your building project is a success.

The building design and erection process comes with a lot of responsibility, but if you do your research, I’m confident that you will have no problem getting through it.

Want more help? Try checking out other Future First Time Builder blogs to further your understanding.

Search Results for: project manager

Your business is your livelihood. It’s probably the reason you can afford the house you live in and provide for your family. With so much riding on the business, I’m sure you analyze and even overanalyze every decision. You wouldn’t be the first to admit it. Nothing should be left up to chance because, frankly, your livelihood is too important to gamble with short sighted savings. When it comes to safety, in every meaning of the word, you’ll want to investigate a move into a pre-engineered steel building.

No Long Term Costs

Pre-engineered steel buildings are cost effective in the long run. You may look at wood buildings and think, “These are cheap and I need to save as much money as possible right now.” However, choosing the cheaper alternative can burn you down the road. Honestly, it’s short sighted and unrealistic. A quality pre-engineered steel building will last for multiple decades without having to replace parts. A wood building can rot, warp, buckle and twist. Insects and termites feed on wood, but can’t harm an inorganic pre-engineered steel building. This resistance to nature tends to result in lower overall maintenance costs. Save your company’s hard earned money, and don’t dip into the business emergency fun to replace panels and boards every couple of years. That’s the safest route you can go with your money.

A pre-engineered steel building is also compatible with green technologies to harvest solar, wind and geothermal energy to lower your energy bill. In fact, if going green is in your plans, it requires zero trees to manufacture a steel building, not to mention the steel is recyclable. A pre-engineered steel building is compatible with HVAC systems, motion sensor lights and skylights to take full advantage of natural light and reduce the time and money allocated to unoccupied rooms. These features will provide future financial safety by reducing your energy bills.

Easy to Expand

I’m sure you have plans to expand your business as expansion usually translates to growth and success. When you have a pre-engineered steel building, expansion is easy. If your current building was constructed with post and beam construction, you’ll need to install a clear-spanning moment resistant frame. If you’re purchasing a new pre-engineered steel building, ask your project manager about the potential for future expansion.

While we’re on the topic of space, did you know a pre-engineered steel building utilizes a clear span frame? A clear span frame supports the load without incorporating any intrusive poles. This allows you to efficiently use all of the space under your roof. It doesn’t matter if you run a feed store, an airplane school or even a renovated hotel, you’ll have room to store your inventory, products and house people safely. We’re talking about an engineered system here. Your pre-engineered steel building is your safety net for your business and can house whatever you may need. If a bigger piece of farm equipment is introduced, and you need to have it, you’ll have the space to store it and keep it out of the elements. When success finds its way to your business, you should feel safe because you have a building compatible enough to adapt to your needs.

Steel Building Durability

I’ve saved the best for last. Steel buildings are some of the most durable building solutions on the planet. They are engineered to withstand the heavy snow in the northwest, the gale force winds in hurricane prone areas, and even strong seismic activity of southern California. The high quality steel isn’t combustible or weak against fire, and some companies, like Armstrong Steel offer 50-year structural warranties to back up the durability claim. Steel buildings are like a grown up Erector set, with bolt together connections and pre-punched holes. You’ll be able to protect your belongings, your business, and your employees.

Still, all metal buildings are not created equal. Do your research, because you ‘get what you pay for’ in construction. Cheaper usually doesn’t mean better. Ask your steel building supplier where they will get their buildings. Will they manufacture them themselves? Or are they a steel building broker? Brokers are simply ‘middlemen’ who call an actual manufacturer and order you a marked up building without letting you make your own selections. It’s much safer to do business with a manufacturer, make your own accessory selections, and customize the building you want, not the building you’re told to buy.

Running a business is hard and taking care of your family and bills can be even harder. Bottomline: Take advantage of the safest option for your business, and almost always, the safest option is a pre-engineered steel building.

Photo courtesy: Roberts Riverwalk Hotel

Search Results for: project manager

Are you witnessing a decrease in your attendance on Sunday? Are people leaving your community to explore bigger and better opportunities? Does there seem to be just a general lack of interest in going to church? All of these options can be discomforting, but there are a couple of ways you can do to return your church to prominence.

Change up your sermon

Sometimes all it takes to reignite interest in your church is changing your sermon up. The classical lectures are important and need to be told, but you could tell them in a more modern context. For example, you could relate the tale of David and Goliath to a contemporary underdog story. Come up with a song or a catchphrase. Don’t be afraid to be a little goofy or gimmicky and have fun. You want your congregation to be engaged and have a good time. Try scheduling a guest speaker to give a sermon. The congregation at your steel church building may love you, but change is always exciting. If your congregation is having a good time, they’ll want to come back.

Market your church

Whether you know it or not, your church has its own brand image already. Come up with a logo for your church and get it out into the community or online. Do you have a website, one that lists service times? Sponsor a little league baseball team, purchase a small stretch of highway or convert an unused area into a park and make sure your church’s name and logo is well displayed. Your church will be in the public’s mind and that should spark interest and familiarity. If a young family enjoys spending their evenings in the park next to your steel church building, maybe they’ll stop in on Sunday.

Community outreach

Many feel the church has a responsibility to perform good deeds and spread goodwill in its community. You can organize members of your congregation to volunteer in the community or at local food banks. Raking leaves, painting houses, picking up trash, and walking dogs are all simple tasks that can be done to help out the community and put your church’s name into the minds of possible new attendees.

Host events

If you have the ability to host events at your steel church building, you’re bringing people into your church, which usually translates to new members. They can come in and checkout your setup and hopefully make some memories. It almost guarantees they’ll want to come back, so be sure you have your meeting times prominently displayed to newcomers. Set up a pancake breakfast, a Shakespearean play, a concert, or be open to host weddings and receptions. The more events you host can only help your attendance numbers.

Involve the congregation

All of these suggestions require a lot of work and preparation. The good news is that you don’t have to do all of the work on your own. You can involve your congregation with planning committees. This will lighten your workload and it will give your congregation a sense of duty in your church. This involvement can keep long term members interested and excite new members too. Remember, it’s the congregation’s church and, to a certain extent, they should help run it.

Expand or add on with a steel church building

Maybe the reason your attendance is dwindling is just because your old church building is past its prime. Have you thought about building a new church with a pre-engineered steel building? Pre-engineered steel buildings are easy to erect and can be erected in as little as a few days to a few weeks depending on your crew and time schedule. Should you decide to erect a new pre-engineered steel building on your current site, the quick turnaround time means you should have a relatively easy transfer experience. Ever hear a story about a church meeting outdoors, or in the basement of another church while they go through the construction process? This won’t have to happen to you.

Steel buildings are durable and will last decades. By building a new steel church building, you are ensuring generations will have a place to worship and grow. Adding on to your current building is just as easy and can give you a multitude of options. Remember, a church isn’t just a sanctuary and chapel. Add a fellowship hall, recreation center, gym, or youth center. Just determine what your community need is and you can almost certainly build it with steel. Construction is sure to get a buzz about your church going and once it is finished, be sure to impress your guests with a grand sermon in your new pre-engineered steel building.

More good news: You don’t have to go about this project alone either. Once you lock in your steel order with an engineering payment, you’ll be assigned to a project manager. Project managers are in place to assist you throughout the design process, answer questions and get you the steel church building of your congregation’s dreams.

Take these tips and get to work on raising your attendance numbers. After all, what is a church without its congregation?

Photo courtesy: Ricardo Camacho

Search Results for: project manager

We often talk about the benefits of a steel building as it relates to a business or a storage warehouse, but did you know a pre-engineered metal building can be a great home as well? Modern home buyers want to get the most value for their money and it’s understandable since we’ve slowly been climbing out of a recession. A pre-engineered steel building can give modern home buyers more bang for their buck – and so much more.

Steel is used in several applications, ranging from agricultural buildings to residential structures. A pre-engineered metal building is capable of incorporating everything you’re accustomed to seeing in a wood home like windows, electricity and traditional doors. Plus, remember this rule of thumb about metal buildings: they are typically half the cost of traditional construction methods, and can be erected in half the time. A pre-engineered metal building isn’t just a primitive shed or storage facility anymore, thanks to a big advance in construction technology.

A pre-engineered metal building is capable of non-traditional designs since, unlike wood, you aren’t required to use load bearing walls inside the home. Loads are transferred from the roof, down the walls and to the engineered foundation. The result is an open floor plan, generally referred to as ‘clear span.’ This usually isn’t possible in wood buildings, without the aid of truss and cord systems or internal columns.

Will you need an architect?

Any home builder will tell you it’s important to settle on a design before you decide to build. Your first thought might be to call an architect for a design or drawings, but many steel building home builders only need the talent of an in-house engineer at a steel building supplier. Architects are usually only needed for designs like multi-level office building or structures with complex interior designs. Plus, architects are rarely concerned about cost and even simple designs can be expensive. Generally, if an architect is needed, have them design around the metal building design rather than have the steel building supplier design around architectural plans. Some architects aren’t familiar with the engineering or design criteria of specific steel building suppliers.

Once you’ve designed your dream home, you want to make sure it’s going to remain structurally sound for decades. Pre-engineered steel buildings are extremely durable and strong, and come with specific coatings to protect the building for decades.

Energy Efficient metal building

The proper insulation in your steel home can help you regulate the temperature without raising your energy costs. Be sure to investigate proper insulation, not just a vapor barrier. Vapor barriers are great for a workshop or garage, but this is your home! Take special note not to use insulation with a vapor barrier if there is an existing vapor barrier already in place. If you do, there is a chance moisture can be trapped in between vapor barriers and damage your insulation. Temperature regulation can protect your home from moisture, which in turn could also prevent rust. The threat of rust is further reduced when you incorporate pre-galvanized secondary framing. To further lower your energy costs (other than investing in a ‘green’ product) pre-engineered metal buildings can utilize solar energy to power your home and can incorporate skylights into your design to take advantage of natural light.

It’s possible you could save money on your taxes and raise your property value with a pre-engineered steel building, because your purchase fits the definition of a capital improvement. A capital improvement is a structure added to your property which lasts at least a year and is evident if you decide to sell in the future. If you install green energy, you could investigate the Residential Energy Efficient Property Credit and the savings associated with it. Make sure you talk to a financial professional to see if you are eligible for any of these credits or savings. Plus, metal buildings are generally classified as permanent structures – which tend to appreciate over time. Nonpermanent structures, such as pole barns, don’t usually require a foundation and don’t cause property values to increase.

If you love your property and don’t want to move, but plan on growing your family, a pre-engineered metal building can be expanded easily. 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 metal 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 still accounted for when expanding in this manner.

Aesthetically yours

Of course, you want your home to have curb appeal! Did you know your metal building doesn’t have to look like a metal building? Sure, you might envision a boxy warehouse or a commercial building, but the aesthetic possibilities of metal buildings are virtually endless, and you can customize your structure to look exactly the way you want it to look. Take the time to research different finishing materials, and how it will impact the structural integrity, engineering and overall cost of your steel building project. You’ll be able to design your metal building and plan ahead with the help of a project manager like me.

Many people have chosen to create their own steel building home. Take a look at how others have taken advantage of residential steel buildings, and feel free to share photos of your steel building home in the comments below!

Search Results for: project manager

I hate it when I make a mistake. Yeah, I know, everybody makes ‘em. I’ve been told that before, but it still doesn’t make me feel any better. I’ve found it’s important to learn from your mistakes and take care to not repeat them. This is especially true in the pre-engineered metal building industry.

Purchasing any kind of building is an opportunity and and should also be an investment in your future. A new building on your property could raise the property value, and a properly erected pre-engineered metal building will give you the comfort of knowing that your family and possessions are safe and inside it. After you purchase your building, you don’t want to view the entire experience as a mistake.

Are you afraid of ‘pulling the trigger?’ With any big purchase, you want to make sure you get the most for your money, but you also need to know your money is spent wisely. The first step of a building purchase is to decide on your building material. There is a selection of materials to choose from – wood, brick and steel. Steel is durable and resistant to almost all weather conditions. You have the ability to counter the affects of heavy rain, intense heat, snow, and even the sun when you design your steel building. Yep, you get to customize a pre-engineered metal building and you can make it look any way you want it to look.

Nobody wants to go about this process alone, or be subject to someone who isn’t looking out for their best interests. At Armstrong Steel, once you lock in your order, you’ll be assigned to project manager that can work with you through the design process. Project managers are your official guide throughout your pre-engineered metal building project. If you have any questions, they will be there to assist you before, during, and even after you’ve erected your building. Worried about hiring an expensive architect? Often times, an in-house steel building engineer or designer at a steel building company is all you’ll need – and it comes at no extra cost.

If energy efficiency is important to you, a steel building can be designed to include green energies such as solar power. You can further lower your energy cost by regulating you building’s temperature properly. Rigid frame steel buildings are easy to insulate and are compatible with HVAC systems. But the actual material – the steel itself – is also considered “green.” Steel is 100% recyclable and inorganic. Plus, your steel building won’t rot or decay like a wood building and that means you won’t have to worry about intense maintenance. Don’t settle for a building material that can warp or split after a few years, and contains parts which constantly needs to be replaced. Honestly, it can be a dangerous health hazard. You can rest assured that a pre-engineered metal building won’t become an eyesore that hurts your property value, violates HOA rules or injures your reputation in the community.

Erection times are greatly reduced with pre-engineered metal buildings. A pre-engineered metal building is designed for easy and quick assembly. A 5-7 man erection crew can erect a building in days or weeks, as compared to wood buildings, which could take months. All parts are bolt together, pre-welded and pre cut. If you’re thinking long term, these bolt together parts allow for easy expansion in the future.

Pre-engineered steel building systems are extremely flexible. With clear span framing, there are no interior poles or columns to navigate around. Plus every inch of space is at your disposal, making steel buildings ideal storage facilities for farm equipment, hay, or even expensive aircraft.

Simply stated, when you decide to build, the biggest mistake you can make is deciding not to build a pre-engineered metal building.

Search Results for: project manager

I wish there were more hours in the day. Don’t you? When it comes to the steel building job site, every hour wasted equates to a potential of lost money. As a contractor, money isn’t the only thing you could lose by wasting the . Your brand image or internet persona could take a hit if you’re wasting time on a job site. Clients are happier when their project is on schedule and a happy client will speak highly of you and your team. On the other side, your reputation could be at stake if a project isn’t completed on time.

Every contractor I speak to is always looking to improve efficiency when they’re on the job. Check out these 4 time saving tips – which translates to keeping your customers and profits, but might help to gain customers and profits if you play your cards right.

Structure

Set up a timeline to to stay on schedule. This will keep your team focused on your current project and will allow them to enter new projects confidently. Nothing looks worse to a client than a team standing around with confused faces. If your team is prepared before they begin work on a job site, they’ll be able to get to work quicker – and finish quicker – which allows you to keep the client’s project on schedule and as the contractor, move onto your next job sooner. That’s the beauty of a pre-engineered steel building: materials arrive to the job site ready to be erected. Holes are pre-punched and the building bolts together, with little to no field fabrication necessary. Talk about quick construction!

Before you begin work on your current steel building job site, you should assign levels of responsibility and delegate. Assign your most trusted team member as an assistant manager or superintendent. If you’re busy talking with the client, your assistant can guide the rest of your team. Think of it this way: If you’re not on top of the job, the job will be on top of you! Learn to manage smarter, not harder.

Incorporate Current Technology

Don’t be afraid of incorporating the most popular mobile apps to communicate with your team, create contracts, or to solve on site problems. Tablets and smartphones can be lifesavers when you need to communicate with your team quickly as they eliminate legwork or the need to leave notes or messages. I’m not advocating to get ride of your traditional construction tools though. Those are your old standbys. Still, if possible, purchase the most modern tools. It’s hard to be the most efficient contractor if you’re using technology your competitors threw out years ago.

Keep the lines of communication open

Communication is vital in all aspects of life. This is especially true when it’s time to erect a pre-engineered steel building. If your client doesn’t tell you exactly what they want or if you don’t tell your client everything they need to know, you’ll typically find delays in your future. Delays lead to unhappy customers and possibly lost money. Sit down with your client before you start work and give them the opportunity to express their thoughts and explain what your team can and can’t do to help them. If you’re able to communicate with the client during the planning and engineering process, all the better. Communication between all parties during a building project can prepare everybody for an efficient erection. That’s why project managers can be so beneficial. A project manager, especially at a steel building supplier, will help you ‘from conception to completion.’ It’s important to have a friend in the steel building process, and if you ever need assistance with the erection process, they are ready to help!

Erect A Steel Building

A pre-engineered steel building is a smart building option because it can save you and your client money. When you order a pre-engineered steel building for your client, it arrives at the job site ready to erect. Steel buildings typically can be erected in days or weeks as opposed to conventional construction methods, which could take months. This will allow you and your crew to move efficiently from one job site to another, but not at the expense of quality and commitment. With minimal down time in between jobs and a quick erection process, there’s a ton of potential for you to take on several jobs at a time and increase your profit margins. Of course, your potential client isn’t going to be concerned with your overall profit. They’re going to be concerned with their savings, and they should be. Let your clients know steel buildings aren’t usually affected by delays like traditional construction methods, and since the building simply bolts together, these types of projects aren’t generally subject to surprise cost increases in the construction process. If your client is a small business owner or a church pastor, delays and cost increases are a huge inconvenience. They’ve got a business to run, and a congregation to lead. As you well know, it can flat out be unacceptable to wait or displace a group of people depending on you. Aside from the quick erection time, pre-engineered steel buildings are extremely durable and require little maintenance. A pre-engineered steel building is fire resistant, wind resistant, and can even incorporate specific coatings to protect the exterior. Pre-engineered steel buildings are also resistant to insects and termites. Some people worry moisture will affect a steel building negatively, but with galvanized steel, proper ventilation, and temperature regulation, you can practically eliminate the moisture problem. Sell your customers on the benefits of steel buildings and how they are designed to last for decades.

Take advantage of these tips now and improve your efficiency on the job site and see your profits and stock rise in the construction community!

Search Results for: project manager

As a small business owner, you might know better than anybody demands and requirements are necessary. When you are interested in expanding your business, you must meet requirements in a timely manner to uphold your customer’s satisfaction and ensure you minimize any loss. This isn’t demanding; it’s a fact of life. Small businesses might need the extra space to store equipment, operate equipment, or accommodate their guests.

That was the case for Hawaiian Falls Waterpark, located in Waco, Texas. Hawaiian Falls, like many other waterparks across the country, is a popular spot for the residents of Waco to cool off during the summer months. Management at Hawaiian Falls had a desire to add a unique structure to their property, and after hours and hours of research, finally settled on a food pavilion. The structure had to be able to take a beating from the sun, accommodate thousands of adults and kids each day, plus withstand high winds in the spring, summer and fall, and even endure high temperatures, often in the triple digits. They also needed the structure delivered in time for the grand opening – already set in stone.

The owners of the Hawaiian Falls Waterpark made the decision to erect a pre-engineered steel building. Steel is durable and can withstand the force of high winds and high temperatures. If you select the proper paint in the design process, you can greatly reduce the effect the sun has on a structure’s roof.

Steel won’t rot when it comes into repeated contact with water like wood. That was a huge sticking point for Hawaiian Falls! Just imagine a packed house of hungry, wet swimmers rushing to enjoy a meal in a wood pavilion. Children are hurrying to get in and out so they can get back out into the pool quickly. Even adults need to squeeze past each other, armed with strollers, pool noodles and a full bag packed with pool essentials. It is inevitable that people will brush against the wood structure and each ‘wet’ contact could wear down the wood. This slow destruction of wood can add up over time in costly repairs and could be dangerous for park guests. Something as little as a splinter could ruin a family’s entire trip and could cost you money down the road, and maybe hurt your brand image.

Steel buildings are engineered to last and a quality pre-engineered steel building supplier, like Armstrong Steel, will offer industry-leading structural, paint, panel and roof warranties. These warranties should give you the confidence that your pre-engineered steel building will last for decades and won’t hurt or injure any of your customers. Rust won’t typically be an issue if you choose to incorporate pre-galvanized steel in your design with a project manager.

A wood structure greatly increases the chances of growing fungus and mold. Fungus lives, breathes, and multiplies on organic materials and would be a real ‘turn off’ anywhere, but especially in a pavilion where families eat. Steel won’t encourage the growth of fungus, because it’s inorganic. In addition, by adding a pre-engineered steel building to the water park, the owners of the Hawaiian Falls may have increased their property by adding a permanent structure. Unlike most wood buildings, pre-engineered steel buildings are considered permanent structures because they require a foundation. If the time should come when they want to retire from the water park business, the owners may be looking at a bigger pay day when they decide to sell.

The only problem left for Hawaiian Falls? Getting the structure erected in time for the grand opening. The heat was on. Literally.

Armstrong came through in the clutch. It helps to have an in-house engineering and detailing department. An in-house engineering team is more efficient and can make changes to the design of a project on the spot or in the clutch if necessary. Compare this to an organization that outsources orders to foreign engineering teams. It also helps that pre-engineered steel buildings usually only require simple tools and instructions, and can be erected in a matter of days or weeks, as compared to pole barns, which require months and a good amount of field fabrication.

The Hawaiian Falls Waterpark was able to get their pavilion delivered, erected, and decorated in time for their grand opening. Did they have demands and requirements to be met? Sure did. As a small business owner, you’ll need to make demands and set requirements to achieve your goals. You shouldn’t have to throw a fit to get your goose to lay golden eggs. The right company will be able to listen to your requests and meet your requirements when you want to expand. It’s your job to find them.

It’s about that time to start thinking about an expansion for next summer! Start your research by visiting more Small Business Owner blogs here, or you can read more about Hawaiian Falls Waterpark here.

Search Results for: project manager

If you’ve been on the Armstrong Steel website, the Armstrong Network, or recently spoken with one of our building consultants, you’ve probably seen or heard about the Direct Buy Process. It’s the easiest way to get a steel building factory direct from the manufacturer. You can qualify for this 9 step procedure by having your financing in place, land ready, and/or you’re prepared to place an engineering payment to obtain drawings. This isn’t the best option for everyone, but many people can take advantage of significant cost savings through this simple procedure.

To begin the Direct Buy Process simply fill out a quick and secure contact form. A building expert will contact you and discuss your needs and dreams when it comes to a pre-engineered steel building. This is when the building expert will evaluate what you want and help you understand how a pre-engineered building can fit your needs. The flexible design of a pre-engineered steel building, a clear span frame, versatile applications and the luxury of being compatible with different energy saving technologies like solar panels are obvious benefits and reasons a pre-engineered steel building could be the right choice for your upcoming project.

During this first step, you’ll receive a building quote, which allows you to get an idea on just how you need to budget your project. Do you know how to calculate the total price of a metal building project? This is the time to establish a working financial plan, and your building expert may be able to find a good fit based on your willingness to manage certain aspects of your project yourself. If buying a steel building factory direct isn’t the right fit for you, a building consultant can help you find several other options.

The second step requires you to make a small engineering payment to lock in your steel order. Steel prices are low right now, but experts are forecasting a rise in prices based off a variety of factors. Right now is the perfect time to begin your steel building project because prices are low for the time being. Once you make your engineering payment, you’ll obtain steel building drawings.

Once your steel order is locked in, the Armstrong engineering and detailing/drafting team will begin to work on your approval drawings. You’re one step closer to customizing your steel building.

Once these drawings arrive, it’s your job to go over them and make changes with a project manager. Steel buildings are completely flexible, and like snowflakes, no two are ever the same! It is best to use red ink for writing and drawing on the plans that are to be revised, this way your project manager will be less likely to miss a desired change. You may make openings, or add accessories like doors or windows. You can change eave extensions, building dimensions, bay spacing, really whatever you want. This is your building! You may also add insulation, cupolas, ridge vents, or anything that is offered in the Armstrong Steel Dealer Catalog. Just tell your project manager! If you need to make any other changes to the drawings but cannot mark up the drawings yourself, you can always contact your project manager and we’ll help you over the phone. Dedicated project managers, like me, are your official guide throughout the process and stand at the ready to help you get the building you want.

The next step deals with permit drawings. After the approval process is complete, you’ll receive your permit drawings. You’ll need to check with your local municipality, county or homeowners association in advance to be sure you can erect your building on your property. Along with your permit drawings, you’ll receive a fabrication release form. Your project can’t move along to the manufacturing facility until you sign this form. This is an important step and requires your direct attention. Now is the time to choose your building’s color if you haven’t yet.

Next, you’ll be sent construction drawings once your fabrication release form is received. Construction drawings are used by the shop to fabricate your building and a building erector to build the building. It’s very possible you are the building erector, because pre-engineered metal buildings bolt together and fit together seamlessly. It’s like a grown up erector set!

Once your ship date is determined, you’ll receive delivery documents. Now you’ll have a better idea of when building erection can commence. Don’t forget to have a forklift on site to unload your building when it arrives!

I won’t say the next part is the ‘fun part,’ because it’s ALL the fun part. However, now it’s delivery day! The building components will arrive banded in bundles. The driver will give you a load list that you will use to account for all the bundles that belong to you while you’re off-loading. You’ll give your cashier’s’ check for the balance owed to the driver prior to unloading the building. After the driver is on his way, you will have a week to go through all the material, item by item, according to the inventory list that we emailed to you previously. Unload the building with the assistance of a forklift or different type of machinery that you arranged to have on your job site.

Once the building is off the truck, you’re ready to erect your building! If you have any questions, be sure to let us know! We’re here to help.

It’s never been easier to buy a building factory direct. If you need space and are considering a steel building, watch this short video to see if the Direct Buy Process is right for you!