If you’re considering a retail steel building, you should understand the metal building construction process right from the start. A simple breakdown of what happens from start to finish can give you a better idea of what’s involved and why it’s a great choice for your construction. Consider the steel frame building construction sequence.
Step 1: Contact
When you’re ready to start the metal building construction process and obtain a quote, the first step is to reach out to a reputable steel building manufacturer. The company will set you up with a representative who will be with you through the process. You’ll discuss your needs, your requirements, and your budget. And together, you’ll come up with an initial plan for your building.
Step 2: Drawings
You will often need professional permit drawings before you can secure funding for your construction. This isn’t always the case, but it’s generally true which is why the drawings phase is so important. The drawings also allow you to make any changes to your building layout while it’s still in the planning phase. Once you approve them, it’s on to the next step.
Step 3: Engineering and Manufacturing
Once you have approved drawings, it’s time for fabrication of your steel building. The construction company will engineer and cut all of the pieces according to strict specifications laid out in the approved permit drawings. Once the parts are cut and ready, the construction company will ship them to your location via trucks, one for the building and others for the doors, insulation, and other parts.
Step 4: Ground and Site Prep
This step is critical and must be done right to ensure successful construction and a stable structure. The ground and site prep will take place before the arrival of your building. This includes pouring the foundation slab and setting the anchor bolts for the building itself. Make sure you use a reputable contractor to ensure a flat slab and properly secured anchor bolts.
Step 5: Framing and Secondary Framing
This phase in the metal building construction process includes installation of the I-beams and support columns as well as the secondary framing.
Step 6: Sheeting
Once the construction company has completed the framing, the sheeting can begin. This includes installing the wall panels and securing them to the secondary framing. During this process the contractors put up the insulation as they install the walls and finally install the roof panels. Be sure your contractor includes weather stripping around the roof panels to protect from precipitation.
Step 7: Accessories and Trim
Once the building is erect, the final steps in the metal building construction process include adding all of the accessories you’ve chosen for your building. At this point your contractor installs everything from windows and doors to vents, fans, and skylights to finish your building.
The Advantage of Steel in the Metal Building Construction Process
The process of constructing a retail building can be a long and complicated one or a simple and streamlined one. It will be depending on the type of construction you choose. If you go with steel, you ensure a quick design and fabrication process. The build timeline that follows is a fraction of what it would be for traditional construction.
If you have questions about the metal building construction process for your retail steel building project, give us a call toll-free at 844-333-7325.
