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Tips for Preparing Your Site
for a Successful Metal Building Installation

August 3, 2023

How to Prepare for a Successful Metal Building Installation

A new property installation can be stressful and confusing for property owners if they’re not accustomed to all the steps that must be taken during the process. In recent years, metal building installations on homesteads as well as commercial properties have become more popular in certain areas of the US due to their wide range of uses. Here, we’ll discuss the steps to follow to ensure the most successful metal building installation possible.

Steps in the Metal Building Installation Process

Location Selection

The location and orientation of the building should be carefully considered when planning your project; this will determine how much sunlight it receives throughout the day and year, impacting factors like natural lighting and energy efficiency. Your building’s location should also take into consideration accessibility, drainage, and any utilities that will be added. All of these factors will impact the type and amount of sitework that will be needed.

• Land-building ratio

  The land-building ratio also plays a crucial role in determining the usable space and potential for future expansion. This ratio is calculated by dividing the land's square footage by the building's square footage. If the ratio is too high, it could limit the available space and hinder any future expansion plans.

• Access

  When selecting a building site for your metal construction project, access is a crucial consideration to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Sufficient space should be available to park, unload raw materials and commence the work without running into space or accessibility issues.

• Legalities

  Make sure to be aware of local building restrictions, particularly concerning property lines and roadway setbacks, especially if you plan to have a concrete foundation. Understanding these restrictions will help you comply with the regulations and avoid any legal issues.

  Furthermore, there may be minimum open space requirements around your metal structure, which can vary based on the type of building you are constructing. Familiarizing yourself with these setback requirements will help you to properly plan and position the structure on your property.

Permitting

You will need to contact your local building authorities to determine whether permits are required for your project. Even rural areas, towns, and counties have specific permit requirements in place. For smaller metal building constructions like carports or simple steel sheds, permits may not be necessary, but it is always wise to check the permitting requirements and paperwork on the city or county's official website.

It’s also important to ensure that the local zoning ordinance will allow the installation of metal buildings on the property. Checking the zoning by-laws will help you determine the best potential locations for entrances, parking lots, fences, and signage.

While inquiries and permits mark the initial steps, it is highly recommended to entrust the actual execution – from permitting to construction – to a professional. Fumbling or skipping the permitting process can lead to penalties, such as civil fines, an order to cease construction, or even the removal of the building. To avoid these penalties, make sure you’re in full compliance with the local building codes before you even begin the construction project.

Site Preparation

Before the installation process begins, the site must be properly prepared so your building has a stable base to rest on. First, clear the site of debris, such as rocks and vegetation, which could impede the construction process.

Before breaking ground, the site MUST be evaluated to see if it contains any gas, water, or electrical lines; obviously, you’ll want to avoid any potential hazards. To do this, call 811 to have underground utilities marked, ensuring safe excavation. In Florida, North Carolina, and many other states, calling 811 is free and required by law.

Another crucial aspect to consider is the site’s drainage. It is crucial to identify where water will drain from the building and ensure it does not interfere with neighboring structures. To achieve proper drainage, the site may need to be graded (leveling the soil and creating a gentle slope around the edges of the installation area). This should be performed by a professional using proper equipment. An uneven surface can lead to delays in the metal building construction process and may result in additional costs.

Foundation

If your building will have a concrete floor, it's essential to pour the concrete a few weeks before the building installation to allow sufficient curing time. This precaution is crucial as concrete that hasn't cured adequately may develop cracks, which can compromise the stability of the structure. The curing time can vary depending on weather conditions and humidity levels.

For concrete slabs, ensure they are precisely the width of the building and about 2 inches longer than the building's length to provide a proper fit. In the case of a ground mount foundation, it is necessary to create a 10-inch-wide and 30-inch-deep post hole for stability and support.

A flawless and well-prepared foundation is vital to ensure the longevity and stability of the metal structure. Metal building installations require precision, and all bolts and joints should be accurately placed for optimal performance.

To ensure the foundation work is done correctly, it is highly recommended to hire a licensed contractor with expertise in this field. Their professional knowledge and experience will ensure that the foundation is properly constructed, setting the stage for a successful and durable metal building installation. By paying careful attention to the foundation, you can lay a solid groundwork for your metal structure and enjoy a reliable and long-lasting building for years to come.

To Sum Up…