Planning and Erecting Steel Warehouses

Planning steel warehouses for commercial or industrial use is a complex process that necessitates working with a construction management company. Consulting with professionals helps project owners make informed decisions and learn how to reduce overall costs.

There are many reasons to choose steel warehouses over traditional buildings. One of the main attractions is these structures are non-combustible. This makes them ideal for warehousing flammable and corrosive chemicals, as well as providing good protection for all types of products.

Steel buildings are cost-effective in many areas. To construct and erect a metal-frame structure is about half the cost of a wood-frame. Material and labor costs are reduced since buildings are pre engineered offsite. Instead of setting up a workshop onsite and hiring laborers to fabricate individual components, the prefab building is delivered ready to assemble.

Utility costs can soar since warehouses typically need high ceilings and wide open space. A good way to counteract is to utilize sustainable energy sources. Not only does this make warehouses more energy-efficient it can also pay off in tax credits or government grants.

Companies that invest in renewable energy can continue saving money long after the building is complete. Adding solar panels or wind turbines is an affordable way to reduce utility costs for years to come. General contractors can offer guidance on the best energy options and most reliable equipment.

Another reason to select metal warehouses is they make use of a clear span layout that provides uninterrupted space. Using a rigid frame system eliminates the need for columns and gives more useable open space.

Clear span layouts are an ideal option when forklifts are used to transport products throughout the warehouse. Since there are no obstacles to overcome, forklift drivers can perform their duties more efficiently. This in turn makes the material handling process is more profitable.

Last, but not least, companies that plan to expand will find steel warehouses are the way to go. Planning expansion projects from the start lets designers include structural elements that will make the expansion easier and faster.

A few of the most common reasons to expand warehouses are to add crane systems, additional storage, covered docks, and mezzanines.

For most, the main reason for choosing steel warehouse buildings is to lessen material and labor costs and quickly erect the building. However, taking all factors into consideration can save owners time and money throughout the lifetime of the building.

When designers create plans for warehouses they focus on the interior layout to ensure the structure can accommodate the type of work that is carried out. If buildings are used to manufacture products, designers must account for workstations or assembly lines. If warehouses are used to store products, designers consider ceiling clearances necessary for forklifts or crane loads.

Working with experienced metal building contractors ensures industrial warehouses are designed and erected properly to obtain maximum structural integrity.

Facility Builders and Erectors have a long history of helping project owners solve warehousing problems. Since 1993, FBE has been offering an array of steel building construction services ranging from conceptual studies to designing and erecting steel buildings.

We invite you to read our blog and learn more about the advantages of steel warehouses and other types of metal buildings. If you are in need of a designer, general contractor, or building erector we encourage you to contact us at 714-577-8060 during normal business hours.