Steel Buildings

Custom Steel Building and Their Life Expectancy

In most cases, modern steel buildings are designed to last somewhere between 40 and 90 years, depending on how it’s used and where its located. However, there are a multitude of other factors that can influence the lifespan of a metal building.

For those that want to learn more about the life expectancy of a metal building, today is your lucky day. In this blog, we’ll break down custom metal buildings and show you what you can expect from these structures, from their life expectancy to how to make them live up to their fullest potential.

Stick with us for great information to help you make the most out of your metal building project.

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Your Steel Building

As one can imagine, how you use your metal building and the surrounding environment will significantly affect how long it lasts. But many additional factors will affect your building’s lifespan. Let’s look at a few of them:

1. Maintenance

Regular maintenance is essential to prolong the lifespan of a steel structure. Timely inspections, cleaning, and addressing minor repairs prevent the accumulation of wear and tear, ensuring that the building remains in optimal condition over the years.

2. Nature of Use

The way a custom steel building is used greatly impacts its lifespan. Metal buildings subjected to heavy loads, frequent movements, or extreme temperatures may experience more stress, potentially affecting their longevity. Properly designing and constructing the building to suit its intended use is vital.

3. Corrosion-Resistant

Corrosion is a major threat to some metal structures, especially in humid or coastal environments. Opting for corrosion-resistant coatings or galvanized steel can significantly extend the lifespan of a custom steel building by protecting it against rust and deterioration.

4. Fire Resistant

Steel is inherently fire-resistant, a distinct advantage over other building materials. A fire-resistant steel structure can withstand high temperatures, reducing the risk of structural damage and contributing to the longevity of the building.

5. Moisture-Resistant

Moisture infiltration can lead to rust and structural degradation of steel structures. Proper insulation, vapor barriers, and well-designed drainage systems help keep moisture at bay, preserving its integrity.

6. Pest-Resistant

Termites and other pests can wreak havoc on a building’s structural integrity. Steel buildings are inherently less susceptible to pest infestations, but proper sealing and regular inspections further safeguard against potential damage.

7. Tensile Strength of Steel Buildings

The tensile strength of steel significantly impacts a building’s ability to withstand external forces. A well-engineered steel structure with the appropriate tensile strength for its intended purpose can withstand stress and maintain its structural integrity over time.

What You Can Do to Make Your Metal Building Last

If you expect to get the most out of your steel structure, there are several steps you can take to maximize its lifespan. Here’s how:

1. Inspect Building Site, Including Roof

Regular inspections are the foundation of a well-maintained steel building. Routinely assess the entire building, paying close attention to the roof, to identify any signs of wear, rust, or potential damage. Promptly addressing issues can prevent them from escalating and compromising the strength of the structure.

2. Check for Gaps that may Expose Insulation

Proper insulation is vital for energy efficiency and climate control within your steel building. Inspect the walls and roof for any gaps that may expose insulation to moisture or outdoor elements. Seal these gaps promptly to maintain insulation effectiveness and prevent potential water damage.

3. Inspect Doors, Windows, and Garage Doors

Ensure that all openings in your steel building, such as doors, windows, and garage doors, are in good working condition. Regularly lubricate hinges, locks, and mechanisms to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.

4. Regularly Wash Your Exterior

The exterior of your steel building can accumulate dirt, dust, and pollutants over time. Regularly washing the exterior helps prevent the buildup of corrosive materials, enhancing the longevity of the structure’s finish and preventing rust.

5. Paint Over Scratches

Minor scratches and blemishes on the steel surface can expose the metal to potential corrosion. Promptly touch up these areas with appropriate paint to create a protective barrier against moisture and environmental elements.

6. Remove Snow from Roof

If you’re in an area prone to snowfall, ensure you remove accumulated snow from the roof. Excess snow can add weight and strain to the structure, potentially causing structural issues. Regular snow removal helps maintain the roof’s integrity and prevents potential collapse.

7. Trim Surrounding Trees and Foliage

Overhanging trees and foliage can deposit leaves, branches, and other debris onto the roof and walls of your steel building. Trim surrounding vegetation to prevent debris buildup, which can trap moisture and accelerate corrosion.

Upgrade Your Metal Building Game with a Building from Safeway Steel

With a wide range of metal buildings for sale, Safeway Steel is proud to be an industry leader with a track record to back it up. Our structures are durable, versatile, and fully customizable, giving you unlimited control over the look, feel, and functionality of your building. And our customer service is second to none.

We also offer flexible financing options that make owning a metal building easy and affordable, even on a budget.

So, what are you waiting for? Give us a call today at +1 (800) 818-2245 and speak with one of our building experts about custom-designing a steel structure for your home, business, or farm. The metal structure of your dreams is only a call away.

Modern Steel Buildings

It’s probably no surprise that metal buildings have become an incredibly popular choice for many applications. From backyard sheds to retail stores, there are very few things these buildings can’t do. Everywhere you look, you’re likely to see a metal building dotting the horizon.

This has had a tremendous impact on the steel building industry, which is now seeing these structures used for manufacturing facilities, logistics centers, training facilities, and almost anything you can think of.

So, if you’ve been looking for a building perfectly suited to your needs, today is your lucky day. In this blog, we’ll explore the market for steel buildings and show you exactly why they’ve become the go-to choice for home and business owners alike.

Factors That Impact the Market Value of Steel

To explain why metal buildings are among the most desirable choices for residential and commercial infrastructure, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention cost-efficiency. Custom steel buildings can be built at a fraction of the price of a traditional wooden structure and will last longer too. But what makes building with steel so much cheaper than lumber?

One of the primary factors in the price of steel buildings is the global supply and demand for raw steel. Fluctuations in steel production, availability of raw materials, and global economic conditions can directly impact steel prices. Changes in demand, such as increased infrastructure projects or a surge in construction activity, can also drive up the demand for raw steel, leading to higher market values.

Another critical factor is the cost of production. Factors such as energy prices, labor costs, and transportation expenses can influence the cost of manufacturing raw steel. For example, if energy prices rise or there are increases in labor wages, the production cost of steel can go up, leading to higher market prices for metal buildings.

The state of the construction industry and the overall demand for metal buildings also affect the market value of raw steel. When there is high demand for metal buildings, especially custom steel structures, the demand for raw steel increases, and prices tend to rise accordingly. Conversely, during periods of economic downturn or reduced construction activity, the demand for metal buildings may decrease, leading to lower market values for raw steel.

Why Safeway Steel Uses American Steel

At Safeway Steel, we take great pride in our commitment to using American steel to construct our custom metal buildings and metal building kits. We prioritize American steel for several reasons, and these are essential in delivering the highest quality products to our customers. Here’s why:

1. No Import Tax

By utilizing American steel, Safeway Steel avoids the burden of import taxes, which can significantly impact the cost of materials. Importing steel from other countries often incurs additional expenses through taxes and tariffs.

2. High-Quality

American steel is renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality. The steel industry in the United States follows stringent standards and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure the production of high-grade steel. Safeway Steel prioritizes quality and recognizes using American steel guarantees superior strength, durability, and longevity for our metal buildings.

3. American Steel is Safe and Reliable

Safety is of paramount importance in the construction industry. By using American steel, we can assure our customers that their custom metal buildings meet the highest safety standards.

4. The American Economy

We take pride in supporting the American economy. By utilizing American steel, Safeway Steel contributes to the growth of the domestic steel industry, which positively impacts employment rates and the overall economy.

5. Environmentally Responsible

In an era where sustainability and environmental responsibility are crucial, Safeway Steel acknowledges the importance of using materials that align with ecologically friendly values. American steel production adheres to strict environmental regulations, ensuring that it meets high standards for sustainability.

Understanding the Market Growth of Steel Buildings

Undoubtedly, the market for custom steel buildings and metal building kits is experiencing remarkable growth, driven by various factors such as cost-effectiveness, durability, and versatility.

According to a press release on Vantage Market Research, the prefabricated steel buildings market is expected to expand from 101.85 billion to 150.49 billion by 2030. And thanks to the rise in industrialization, commercial construction activities, and the need for sustainable building solutions, this industry is only expected to grow and play a pivotal role in future construction projects.

Ready to Build Your Dream Structure? Contact Safeway Steel!

Whether you’re looking for simple metal building kits or larger commercial-grade metal buildings for sale, Safeway Steel has your back. We’re proud to offer American-made steel buildings designed to take on any environment and application under the sun and provide you with years of dedicated service.

We back our buildings up with industry-standard certifications, warranties, and guarantees so you know you’re getting your money’s worth before, during, and long after installation.

So, if you’re ready to take your first step toward metal building ownership, give the experts at Safeway Steel a call at +1 (800) 818-2245. Our building specialists will happily assist you in designing and installing a steel building that works perfectly for your needs.

Over the past few years, there has been a significant focus on strengthening building codes and regulations to enhance the quality and safety of construction projects. These standards were initially introduced in 1905 by the National Board of Fire Underwriters, an insurance group that aimed to assess the suitability of buildings for human habitation.

With time, the United States witnessed the establishment of three separate organizations responsible for creating safety standards. Eventually, these organizations merged to form the International Code Council, the authority overseeing building regulations today.

Each state has its own set of building codes and regulations that must be adhered to when constructing a structure. These regulations cover various aspects, including physical safety, comfort, health, aesthetics, and accessibility of buildings.

If you are planning to construct a commercial building, it is essential to stay informed about the safety standards and regulations that apply to your project. Follow along to learn more about building codes and safety regulations!

Types of Building Codes That You Need to Know

In the United States, adherence to International Building Codes (IBC) is a crucial aspect of the construction industry. These codes establish the standards and regulations for constructing safe and compliant structures. The IBC is comprised of various statutes, each addressing specific concerns with safe construction.

1. International Building Code (IBC):

The IBC is a widely adopted model building code in the United States and many other countries. It sets performance-related standards for health and safety in buildings.

2. International Residential Code (IRC):

The IRC focuses on ensuring the safety of residential structures. It provides a comprehensive model code with minimum regulations that must be followed for buildings with three stories or less.

3. International Existing Building Code (IEBC):

The IEBC was developed to establish safety standards for renovating existing buildings. It also provides regulations for altering the occupancy of an existing structure.

4. International Green Construction Code (IGCC):

The IGCC provides guidelines for the design and construction industry to create efficient, sustainable, and resilient buildings in any environment.

5. International Energy Conservation Code (IECC):

The IECC aims to maximize energy conservation through model code regulations. It ensures the optimal use of fossil fuels and renewable resources in buildings.

6. International Fire Code (IFC):

The IFC sets guidelines to prevent fire, explosions, and other hazardous conditions. It outlines minimum safety requirements and fire prevention systems for buildings.

What will Be Evaluated in the Permit Approval Process?

When obtaining a permit for commercial metal buildings, several aspects will be assessed to ensure you are in compliance with regulations. This evaluation process typically considers factors such as building rules, zoning requirements, structural strength, fire safety, electrical systems, plumbing, accessibility, and environmental impact.

Inspections may be conducted to review the proposed construction plans and confirm that they meet the required standards. This will require a review of proper documentation, including detailed architectural and engineering drawings, permits, and supporting paperwork.

By carefully assessing these aspects, authorities can ensure that commercial metal buildings meet safety standards, functionality requirements, and regulatory compliance.

Are You Looking for a Commercial Metal Building? Let Safeway Steel Do the Job!

With years of experience in the metal building industry, Safeway Steel is your go-to source for all your commercial steel building needs. Whether you require a spacious structure to house your large industrial machinery or a compact retail store, our buildings are designed to deliver reliable solutions.

We take pride in offering durable, flexible, and versatile metal buildings that are not only competitively priced but also backed by industry-standard warranties. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities, and our craftsmanship ensures that your building will perform well for years to come.

Ready to start with your new building project? Give us a call today at +1 (800) 818-2245. Our team is waiting to help you construct a structure that perfectly aligns with your vision. Let’s build your dream together!

Fertilizer is the true workhorse of American agriculture. More vital than any tractor or farm equipment and as helpful as any farmhand, its plays an integral role in the production of fruit and vegetables we enjoy every day.

During the pandemic, many supply chains worldwide were disrupted, causing shortages that still severely affect farmers today. However, with Covid restrictions and quarantines easing, the fertilizer market is set to expand by nearly 14% in 2022 alone. Key drivers for this market are a growing population and an increase in technological capabilities.

And sitting at the forefront of those advances is the metal building industry. Prefab metal buildings have long been integral to both agricultural sectors and chemical production and storage. But now, with the help of innovation, these structures can offer a wide variety of additional features that have made them one of the most popular choices on the market.

Why the Fertilizer Industry Trusts Custom Metal Buildings

The proper storage of chemicals plays an essential role in many different industries. After all, fertilizer, like many other chemical products, can be extremely dangerous if not correctly stored. From explosive concerns to environmental pollution, understanding how to use, maintain, and house these materials is absolutely necessary.

But what about custom metal buildings make them such a useful tool for chemical storage? Let’s dive into the details of what these structures have to offer:

1. Clear Span Interiors

Unlike most conventional structures, metal buildings can be built at enormous sizes with little need for internal support columns. These clear-span structures are a fantastic solution for offering an incredible amount of interior square footage.

2. Fully Customizable

Metal buildings have the added advantage of being fully customizable. From top to bottom, almost every aspect of a prefab structure can be customized or adjusted to fit your needs. The dimensions, footprint, roofing, paneling, and framing are just a few of the facets that can be changed.

3. Superior Ventilation

To safely store fertilizer and certain chemicals, proper ventilation is a necessity. And warehouse metal buildings come with the ability to customize the ventilation to suit your application.

4. Corrosion-Resistance

Another crucial aspect of storing chemicals according to regulations and guidelines is preventing corrosion. For example, corrosion can compromise chemical containers, opening businesses to the risk of fires, explosions, or worse.

5. Moisture Protection

Like corrosion, moisture damage and rust can also compromise vital machinery and containment tanks, possibly resulting in catastrophic consequences. Luckily, the galvanized steel used in prefab metal buildings is resistant to moisture damage and rust.

6. Fire Resistance

Did you know that metal buildings can withstand temperatures up to 1,200 degrees? That makes these structures some of the most suitable options for chemical storage. And while no building is truly fireproof, having a structure that naturally holds up against most fires is invaluable for many businesses.

7. Insulation

With proper insulation, steel buildings can maintain a more even internal temperature and keep excess moisture at bay. Both qualities are essential for safe and effective chemical storage.

Vital Things to Consider When Investing in a Metal Building

Purchasing any type of structure is a considerable investment. But buying a commercial-sized building that’s built to house potential volatile chemicals is an entirely different animal.

Nevertheless, having a comprehensive grasp of your needs is a great start! For everything else, we’ve put together a small checklist of things you’ll need to keep in mind.

1. Find a Suitable Location

Location is everything! Before you purchase a structure, you’ll need to find a suitable location. To prevent flooding, you will need to choose an area that rests above any natural water drainage or runoff. The building site will also need to be leveled appropriately and cleared of debris.

As for chemical storage, you’ll want to choose a location that’s a safe distance from residential homes, with easy access for employees or emergency crews.

2. Zoning Issues and Building Codes

As with any commercial business, your first outward step will be to secure the proper zoning for your property and to ensure that you’re following all local building codes. You’ll want to work closely with your local building inspectors for this part of the project.

3. Safety

Handling hazardous materials is a serious business. The most critical elements of chemical storage are the safety of your employees, nearby citizens, and the environment. Fertilizers and certain chemical compounds can be volatile and pose a real explosion risk if mishandled. Therefore, you’ll need to be trained on HAZMAT safety procedures, and you will need to consult with safety consultants to ensure that you’re following all legal guidelines.

4. Sizing

How big will you need your structure to be? Having a comprehensive grasp on how much square footage you’ll need will help you make a more educated decision on what size metal building works best. In addition to size, you’ll want to plan your building footprint and account for any extra rooms or utilities it will need to contain.

5. Local Weather Patterns

While most of the US has a moderate climate, many regions are home to various potentially hazardous weather patterns. From thunderstorms to flooding, wildfires, tornadoes, and even hurricanes, your building will need to be designed to handle the weather in your area. This is especially important for structures that contain or produce fertilizers and hazardous chemicals.

6. Choose the Right Metal Building Provider

Let’s face it. There are a ton of different metal building providers out there. And not all of them are great at their jobs. Therefore, when choosing a steel structure, it’s crucial to do the homework and choose a provider with a history of producing quality structures and delivering excellent customer service. By performing this due diligence, you’ll significantly streamline your metal building project and eliminate many construction-related headaches.

Safeway Steel is Your Trusted Name for Custom Metal Buildings of All Kinds

Whether it’s a metal storage building or an enormous commercial warehouse built for storing fertilizer, Safeway Steel has the expertise to deliver strong, durable structures and low metal building prices.

So, if you’ve been thinking about building a fertilizer storage facility for your farm or entering into the chemical storage business, we can help! Give us a call today at +1 (800) 818-2245 and let our team of building experts help you design and customize a commercial-grade steel structure for your next project!

Steel Buildings and Firehouses

When local municipalities require a new building, steel is often the construction method of choice due to its strength and cost-effective design. Most regional governments have precise timetables in which they’re required to operate and work stringently to maximize the ‘bang’ for their buck.

And that’s precisely why so many fire departments trust steel buildings for their firehouses and equipment storage buildings. These sturdy structures offer the flexibility required to work for any job or application and deliver the dependability expected from the community. Today, we’ll walk through some of the biggest reasons fire departments across the US choose metal buildings for their firehouses.

Essential Things to Consider When Purchasing a Steel Building

Buying a new metal building of any size is an immense investment. That’s why it’s critical to perform the necessary research to find a structure that works for you and your needs. Below, we’ve put together a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when buying your new steel structure.

1. Building Size?

How large of a building will you need? Having a solid grasp on the structure size that best suits your requirements is a fundamental step that will help you throughout the remainder of the process. You’ll want to take measurements of vehicles and generate an idea of how much square footage you’ll require. Performing these steps will minimize any issues or headaches you may encounter along the way.

2. Budget

All building projects will require a budget. Drafting a budget will allow you to complete a project on time while considering any extra expenses that may occur. For many government departments, a budget will already be drafted before the construction of any structure.

3. Foundation

What foundation will you pick for your metal building? While there are several options available, most fire stations will require concrete slabs, which are one of the strongest, most durable foundations.

4. Functionality

How will you use your structure? Fire departments will need a building that features vehicle storage, changing rooms, kitchens, sleeping quarters, and more. You’ll need to design your structure to account for all these necessities.

5. Location

Do you have an installation site ready? If not, you’ll need to ensure your build location is level, properly graded, and cleared of debris. Additionally, a concrete foundation must have ample time to properly cure before construction begins.

6. Customization

One of the most prominent features that sets metal buildings apart from the competition is their customizability. From top to bottom, almost every facet of a steel structure can be customized and adapted to fit your needs. You can change the paneling, trim, roofing styles, windows, doors, and even the wainscoting!

Why Steel is the Best Option for Fire Stations and Government Buildings

While metal buildings have been around for years, modern engineering has made them the go-to solution for many construction projects. At one point, metal buildings were relegated to garages and backyard sheds, but now they’re the most popular choice for commercial, industrial, and governmental facilities. This prevalence is due to:

1. Construction Speed

Steel buildings can be built in a fraction of the time it takes to construct a similar-sized wooden structure. For example, a wood building might take weeks or months to complete, but a metal building can be completed in mere days.

2. Low Cost

With lumber prices soaring, it’s no surprise that people are turning to steel buildings for cost-efficiency. As a result, your average steel structure can be built for much less than you’d spend on traditional construction options.

3. Strength and Durability

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a building more stable and capable of taking on the elements than a metal building. These structures are engineered to withstand high winds, heavy rain, snow, and seismic activity.

4. Energy Efficiency

Since metal buildings are constructed using precise mechanical components, they fit together more snugly than a wooden structure. And combined with proper insulation, a metal building provides a more even internal temperature and can drastically lower your energy consumption.

5. Eco-Friendly Construction

Did you know that steel is 100% recyclable? Not only does it carry a much smaller carbon footprint than lumber, but it can also be melted down and reused with no detriment to its strength.

6. Insurance Savings

Many insurance companies base their rates on the relative risk of a structure. And since metal buildings are resistant to rust, mold, pests, and even fires up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, insurance providers will often quote lower rates on policies covering steel buildings.

7. Reduced Maintenance Costs

Since metal buildings are forged from galvanized steel, they’re naturally resistant to elemental dangers like moisture, mold, pests, and fire. As a result, you’ll spend far less time maintaining or repairing metal buildings than you would with a wooden structure.

8. Customizability

Steel buildings can be customized for a wide variety of purposes, putting you in the driver’s seat to change your paneling, roofing, color schemes, trim, and much more. The only limit here is your budget and your imagination!

Important Features for Your Metal Fire Station

When designing and building a fire station, there are a few qualities your structure will need to possess.

1. Strength and Heavy-Duty Design

Your building will likely undergo years of intense wear and tear from heavy equipment, traffic, vehicles, and more. Therefore, your new building needs to be built to handle it.

2. Space

A building that houses an entire fire department will need plenty of room. And that’s why metal structures are the superior option! Some metal buildings, like our clear span buildings, can be built at enormous sizes with no need for internal supports.

3. Fire-Resistance Capabilities

While firefighters aren’t likely to bring fire back home with them, having a structure that can stand up to potential fires is vital. Luckily, steel buildings are designed to resist temperatures as high as 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, making them one of the most fire-resistant construction types on the market.

4. Extensive Planning

As with most government agencies, the planning and design phase takes considerable time. These institutions will have many procedures, regulations, and rules they must abide by. Planning your structure early is a great way to avoid potential pitfalls.

Safeway Steel is Your Number One Choice for All Metal Buildings

Whether you’re building a new firehouse, governmental building, or residential metal structure, you can count on Safeway Steel to deliver premium quality structures at affordable prices. Our buildings are engineered for strength, durability, and flexibility, allowing them to work well for a wide array of purposes.

So, if you’ve been planning your next building project, you’ve come to the right place. Give our building specialists a call today at +1 (800) 818-2245 and let them help you design, customize, and construct a steel structure that works for you!