Are you a businessman looking to construct a building to store your equipment, manufacturing tools, or goods? Or are you in the restaurant business with an urgent requirement for a building? Commercial properties are expensive investments, with costs running into thousands of dollars.
It is essential, therefore, that these structures should be safe, solid and highly durable. Even the slightest defect could result in significant damage, impacting your revenue and reputation.
And that is why it’s a good idea to go with prefabricated steel commercial buildings. These have gained rapid popularity with businesspersons and industrialists because of their durability, high strength, customization, faster construction time, low assemblage costs, and sustainability.
Most companies specializing in creating prefabricated structures use steel because it enjoys several advantages over materials like masonry and wood. Unlike them, it is resistant to steel, termites and pests and can withstand harsh weather conditions before showing any signs of damage.
The biggest advantage is being able to order a building suited to your business requirements. For example, you might require a greater width or decide to suspend something from your ceilings, which you can ask the company to work on accordingly.
But what mistakes should you avoid before installing a commercial building and other related things? Read on to get the answers below.
Not planning the layout
Although steel buildings are highly functional, that’s not a reason to ignore the layout planning process. You should be clear about your building’s design and how you want to utilize the available space. When clear about these, you should inform the company about your specific requirements.
In most cases, prefab companies provide you with a Building Consultant who discusses the project’s plan before proceeding. They will ask you about the specific requirements for the interiors, for instance, if you plan on suspending something for the ceiling and the occupancy rate.
Ignoring the building codes
Most steel buildings require a permit before installation, which you should obtain before installing one anywhere. Prefab commercial steel buildings should also meet the building codes of your country, province, or city.
Moreover, if the construction site falls within a heritage-listed area or is connected to a property with historical value, involving a heritage consultant can be a smart move. These professionals are familiar with heritage regulations and can guide the design process to make sure it respects local conservation requirements. Their expertise can help avoid unexpected delays, redesigns, or even legal issues down the line.
Also, consider asking the prefab company to help you secure the permit or sending certified engineer drawings to help you obtain one. Usually, experienced companies will consider the building codes in your area during the design and engineering process to ensure it meets the structural requirements.
Choosing the wrong frame
You should devote plenty of time to thinking about the framing requirements for your building. A sturdy frame allows your construction to withstand enormous amounts of weight without incurring structural damage. Framing is crucial during the design stage, whether it’s a repair shop or a retail store.
Prefab companies generally offer you between four to five framing options. These include continuous beams, continuous trusses, uni-beam, and deck frames. A continuous beam, calculated using tools like the SkyCiv beam deflection calculator, is suitable for warehouses, manufacturing plants, and other commercial applications.
Continuous truss works best for large-sized commercial structures, while deck frame is best for retail spaces, storefront property and similar uses.
Not insulating the structure
One of the advantages of steel buildings is the various insulation systems with which they are compatible. You should take full advantage of that and choose one that traps heat and lowers your energy consumption and bills.
Ideally, you should decide on the insulation type during the beginning stages of the project itself because your options become restricted once the building’s erection is complete. Insulation in steel buildings is placed between the framing and cladding system.
Some insulation types you can choose from are fibre-glass laminated blankets, rock wool, and metal panels.
You should consider getting prefabricated steel commercial buildings because they are highly durable, customizable, cost-effective, and have a short installation time. However, before doing that, you should avoid mistakes like the ones mentioned above.
