In a rapidly changing economy, builders and architects are looking at a wide variety of options to get the most for their dollar. Pre-engineered metal buildings offer a cost-effective, sustainable, long-term solution to many building challenges.
Computer aided design and drafting (CADD) has helped launch metal buildings’ design in the past several decades. Metal building system manufacturers use computer tools to custom design each building system and all building components based on each customer’s needs and specifications.
Based on local and national building codes, each metal building system is engineered to the required dimensions and designed to meet the loading conditions with the specified material. Once the building is designed and detailed, computerized instructions are sent to the fabrication plant where steel members are cut to exact standards. That precision custom manufacturing also reduces construction waste.
Metal buildings are extremely versatile and traditionally have been used in the commercial and industrial market segments as warehouses, distribution centers and industrial facilities. They’re making inroads into other markets, however, such as churches, schools, shopping centers, office buildings and other commercial and mixed-use facilities.
The structures can incorporate many architectural finishes—including masonry, brick, tilt-up, ornamental metal or stucco façades—while still being cost competitive. Basic elements reign across all metal buildings: primary rigid frames, secondary members (wall girts and roof purlins), cladding and bracing. All of those elements work together to create an efficient system. Engineered systems also withstand extreme loading from disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes.
The buildings also are a good fit for developers, many of whom are starting to look at buildings as long-term investments. Due to the permanence, durability, stability and quality of metal buildings, life cycles can reach up to 100 years. Metal buildings can also help meet green initiatives. About 35 percent of steel used in buildings comes from recycled products and steel is 100 percent recyclable. In addition, metal buildings are easy to insulate and, when paired with cool roofing, can help lower heating and cooling costs.