Most of us could buy metal sheet and build ourselves a little tin hut or shanty but would we know how to set about a more serious metal building project? Before calling in an expert such as Metal Buildings Topeka KS, we should obviously clarify in our minds what we mean by the term “Metal Building”.
Types of Metal Buildings.
If we are thinking of those old pictures of skyscrapers being built in New York, our mind pictures those huge steel beams that effectively form the bones of the finished structure. While metal is a major component in these buildings, they are really metal supported (rather than a full metal) buildings. Neither should those modern, aluminum clad structures, much favored in today’s cityscapes, be considered metal buildings.
Metal building structures Topeka KS will have an entire steel frame which is then clad in metal to form the walls and roof. For smaller structures where a rounded roof can be accepted, it is possible to do without the frame and simply bend metal sheet into an arc rising on one side and returning to the ground on the other side. However, as size increases, a frame may become necessary to make the structure more rigid. The military Quonset hut is an example of this type of metal building.
Where to use metal buildings?
Generally, metal buildings are of lower cost than those built from such as concrete and are usually much quicker to erect. Agricultural buildings from barns through silos to pigsties or other animal shelters will often be of all metal construction. Metal is also a popular choice for warehouses or open-sided, covered work areas. Residential use is more likely to be restricted to small outhouses. Specialists such as Metal Buildings Topeka KS can offer excellent advice on when to consider all metal construction and then offer a wide range of designs.
What Metal to Use?
Any metal that can be made into sheets and bars could be considered but, obviously, cost and availability will have to be factored in to the choice. Certain types of iron can be considered but steel is a very popular choice because of its relatively low cost and widespread availability. Companies like K-Construction Inc can provide full details to assist you in making the best choice in Topeka KS.