If you’re thinking about building a new structure, it is important to consider needs for both now and the future. Sure, you might need a limited amount of space right now, but in the future, what are your plans to expand? Although most building owners only consider the here and now, it’s important to also give thought to growth in the future.
When considering how to build a large building, such as a manufacturing facility or a warehouse, there are many types of building materials to consider. Metal is a popular material for large buildings, as it is cost effective and versatile. At a span width of 200 feet, metal beams are cost-effective. As long as there is space available, bays can be built with almost no limit. A large warehouse may need 50, while a smaller garage may need only 3 or 4. There is no limit to what the metal framing is capable of.
If you’re only in need of so much space right now, but hope to expand in the future, it is possible to due so with metal framing. Make sure to properly plan for if this happens, making sure to leave land available for the addition.
There are a few good ways to create an addition to a metal building further down the road. Each of these ways requires careful planning and should be considered at the initial construction of the building.
Plan for Expansion Initially
The first and best way involves the planning the addition at the initial design. When designing the load-bearing frames, plan ahead and construct them in a way that will allow for the addition.
Two frames make up a bay, where each frame supports equal weight from the roof. Multiple bays that sit adjacent to each other are also designed to support the weight of the roof around them. However, frames that are closer to walls are typically lighter to save steel and money. This is because they are only required to support a load from one side.
However, during the initial construction, if the building owner knows he or she wants to expand at a later date, these end frames can be designed to allow for expansion on the opposite side. If made to bear weight from both sides, then an expansion is possible off the end of the building.
Plan for Expansion Later
The second option allows for expansion even if it is not planned during the initial design. There are a few different options of how builders can achieve this.
First, the lighter end-frames can be replaced with new, full-load frames, capable of bearing loads from both sides. Although the structure is preserved, this options requires roof panels, secondary steel attachments from the frame, and parts of the wall to be removed.
The second option requires removal of the wall where the extension will take place and adding extra metal to the original frame to make it capable of bearing loads on both sides. Although this preserves much of the roof and secondary steel, it may not be as cost- or time- efficient.
Each building will be different in terms of cost and time, so building owners should way their options to see which of these options will be more efficient for them. Overall, planning an expansion after the initial construction will cost more time and effort. As a result, the best option is to initially design for the possible expansion. Even though this will cost you more at the beginning, if you do decide to expand it will save both time and money.
How to Get Started
If you have questions about planning your future metal building or would like to learn more, contact your local representative at Allied Steel Buildings to find out how to proceed. Allied Steel Buildings leading steel building manufacturer that collaborates with individuals to design and build their dream structure.